The expectant and breastfeeding mama needs her beauty fix too, especially now that she is going through hormonal changes that come with the birth of a new life. Such hormonal changes can cause acne, photosensitivity, and hyperpigmentation. While there are a lot of products that can help with these concerns, certain ingredients should be avoided because they are potentially harmful to babies. Here are some that you should avoid:
Retinol
Retinol, also known as Vitamin A1, increases cell turnover and fades signs of aging. However, it is not safe for pregnancy and known to increase risk of birth defects, premature births and miscarriage. As Vitamin A1 is found secreted in breastmilk, doctors also avoid prescribing products with retinoid active ingredients to breastfeeding moms.
Chemical Sunscreens
Sun protection is important as many pregnant women become more prone to hyperpigmenation. However, chemical sunscreens such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, octisalate can be systemically absorbed through the blood stream. Furthemore, oxybenzone has been linked to rare birth defect known as Hirschsprung's disease. Hence, it makes sense to replace chemical sunscreens with a safer and environmentally friendlier option such as physical (mineral) sunblock.
Parabens
A recent study found that babies tended to be heavier at birth, and more likely to become overweight by age 8, when mothers used skincare and beauty products containing parabens while pregnant (Leppert, et al., 2020).One of these chemicals, butylparaben, was associated with excess weight only in girls.
Rock & Herb products are free of retinol, chemical sunscreens and parabens.
