A Guide to Safe Cosmetics during Pregnancy

Everyone talks about the “glow of pregnancy” like it’s some sort of magical transformation that turns expectant mothers into radiant beings of light. It’s true that some lucky mums look like they’ve just stepped out of a skincare ad but for the rest of us, it’s less radiant goddess and more exhausted racoon! Your first thought is that you can slap on some concealer and go about your day, but that’s when you need to pause and consider the safety of cosmetics during pregnancy. While many cosmetics are safe, some contain ingredients that could potentially harm you or your baby.

Cosmetics during Pregnancy: What to Use and What to Avoid 

Sunscreen

There’s no doubt about the benefits of sunscreen in protecting you from the harmful UV rays of the sun. However, some sunscreens contain chemicals that can pose a threat to your baby. All sunscreens can be broken down into one of two categories: chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens contain chemicals that are absorbed into the skin and convert UV rays into heat which then dissipates. These sunscreens typically contain ingredients such as Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, chemicals that may interfere with hormonal balance and affect your baby’s development. On the other hand, physical sunscreens contain minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that stay on the surface of the skin and reflect UV radiation away from the skin. However, this does not mean that all physical sunscreens are safe during pregnancy as some of them may contain additional chemicals that are potentially dangerous. Advice from dermatologists on the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens will help you choose the right sunscreen for you and your baby.

Anti-ageing creams 

Anti-ageing skincare products often contain retinoids such asretinol and retinyl palmitate. Retinoids are a form of vitamin A that are effective in promoting skin renewal and reducing the signs of ageing. Studies show that the oral intake of retinoids has been associated with birth defects. While the amount of retinoids in over-the-counter cosmetics is typically lower, it’s still advisable to avoid them during pregnancy, especially in higher concentrations.

Lipstick 

Many lipsticks used to contain parabens as preservatives to extend their shelf life and prevent microbial growth. Parabens may pose a health risk as they can mimic oestrogen and disrupt hormone function. This doesn’t mean that you can’t use lipstick while you are pregnant, instead, you will need to look for one that is labelled paraben-free. Some lipsticks are sold as “pregnancy-safe” or “pregnancy-friendly” but these terms are not regulated by the Cosmetic Products Regulation(CPR) enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This is why it’s best to review the list of ingredients on the label. 

Nail Polish 

You don’t have to give up painting your nails because you’re pregnant but you should look for polishes that are safer. You can look for a nail polish that is labelled “3-free” or “5-free” – a 3-free nail polish means that it does not contain formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), while a 5-free nail polish excludes two additional chemicals which are formaldehyde resin and camphor. It’s also better to paint your nails in a well-ventilated room to avoid inhaling the fumes from the nail polish. Painting your nails when you’re pregnant is not just about having pretty nails, but also about improving your mood and investing in self-care.  

According to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, exposure to several commonly used chemicals during pregnancy can increase the risk of adverse birth outcomes including pre-term birth, low birth weight, cognitive dysfunction, and impaired immune system development. Exposure to these chemicals can take place through skin absorption in the case of lotions and creams or inhalation in the case of hairsprays and perfumes. This is why it is important to check the labels of the cosmetic products you use, especially the ones you use daily. 

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Aneta Alaei

Aneta is a Toronto-based mom of four that loves a good meal, great company, and learning something new. In her free time, you can find her trying to keep yet another plant alive.

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