There are certain skincare ingredients that are not recommended whilst pregnant or lactating, which, years ago meant giving up your favourite retinol or anti-ageing product throughout this time. Not anymore, ingredients such as Vitamin A (Retinol) and Salicylic Acid (BHA) are the most common ingredients that would make someone pack away their product for a period of time.
Vitamin A is one of my favourite ingredients for creating healthy, strong and resilient skin including a firm matrix (scaffolding) of the skin. Vitamin A increases cellular turnover, revealing fresh, plump even tones cells to the skin's surface. Vitamin A stimulates the fibroblast cell (collagen-producing cell) to create more collagen and elastin, the fibres that give our skin a healthy bounce and firmness. It also regulates sebum production in the skin (oil) so is beneficial for those with overactive oil glands, acne and congested pores.
Salicylic Acid is a BHA or beta hydroxy acid that when applied to the skin will loosen and dissolve oil plugs within the skin pore. Great and most beneficial for those with acne, congestion and blackheads. It can be drying to the skin so I really only recommend this in small doses to all skin types (except sensitive) and for those with acne/oily skin they can use a higher dosage/multiple BHA products. For example our Skin Matrix Hello. Goodbye Serum has 3% BHA and is a great spot treatment and all over anti-acne serum. BHA is also found in our cleanser, the Skin Matrix Deep Pore Cleanser.
Here are my go-to's for my clients who are looking for the best alternative for these products whilst pregnant.
Vitamin A - switch to a plant-based Vitamin A, Bakuchiol. Saya Skin Care have a beautiful serum-containing Bakuchiol and Kakadu Plum called, Saya Renew. It also contains a natural form of Vitamin C and 15 botanicals that work in synergy to hydrate, rejuvenate and protect the skin. Bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative, to renew and brighten the skin, as well as the following incredible botanicals to provide protection, balance and hydration. Apply nightly and follow with your night moisturiser.
Another Vitamin A alternative is a Retinaldehyde based Vitamin A product that is also suitable for usage whilst pregnant. Osmosis MD Skin Care have 4 Vitamin A Serums to choose from.
Osmosis MD Clarify Serum - choose if you have acne/breakouts.
Osmosis MD Calm Serum - choose if you have sensitive skin or rosacea
Osmosis MD Correct/Renew - for all other skin types start with Correct and move to Renew after 1 bottle if the skin was totally fine with the Correct. (Renew is a tad stronger than the Correct)
For those with Acne who would like an alternative to Salicylic Acid (BHA), try the Aspect Jungle Brew Serum, Jungle Brew contains a blend of potent ingredients, including a unique Vitamin C Complex and Amazonian extracts. This blemish-busting formula detoxifies, mattifies, and soothes the skin, ensuring a clearer and brighter complexion without causing any irritation. It leaves a matte finish and can be used AM/PM. Follow with either the Aspect Shineless or the Grown Alchemist Matte Balancing Moisturiser.
Some other stand outs that our clients are loving.
When I was pregnant I used the Skin Matrix IQ Serum AM/PM as my Vitamin A, anti-ageing alternative. 16% Niacinamide (B3) and 5% stable Vitamin C combined with zinc and hyaluronic acid was used for collagen synthesis, and to keep my Melasma (hormonal pigmentation) under control. Our Skin Perfection is also a great option for those with a sensitive skin, loaded with antioxidants and Vitamins B3 and C.
I still use our IQ Serum every morning to date as I find it gives my skin a glow I am yet to find with any other product.
For an overnight repenishment, you know when your skin feels super dry and dehydrated, the Grown Alchemist Age Sleep Masque is perfect to reset your moisturiser levels in the skin. Apply this after cleansing and serum application of a night, then right before bed I love applying 1-2 drops of The Hemp Drop Passionfruit + Hemp Oil on top to seal everything in and give my skin a boost in essential fatty acids. The skin loves this combo!
Look for an exfoliating combo that is gentle, effective and nourishing. Massage in The Grown Alchemist Polishing Exfoliant first, then rinse off and apply the Grown Alchemist Enzyme Exfoliant. Leave on for 15 minutes then wash off and massage in your favourite facial oil and moisturiser.
Here is a popular skin care regime for those with a dry skin type whilst pregnant
AM:
Skin Matrix Balance Cleanser
Skin Matrix IQ Serum
Aspect Phytostat9 Moisturiser
Osmosis MD Refresh
Skin Matrix Zinky - 23% zinc oxide moisturiser
PM:
Skin Matrix Balance Cleanser
Saya Renew Serum
Aspect Phytostat 9 Moisturiser
Osmosis MD Refresh or Osmosis MD Illuminate
The Hemp Drop Passionfruit + Hemp Oil
1 x week the Grown Alchemist Polishing Exfoliant and Enzyme Exfoliant combo followed by their overnight Sleep Masque.
Have a question for us? Or need help with your Skin Care Regime?Email us anytime
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