Pregnancy Skin Care Routine For Day & Night

During pregnancy, your body needs extra care. This is because everything revolves around you and your baby, from prenatal supplements to skin care. First, however, it is important to know which items to keep and which to throw away when you start a pregnancy skin care routine.

During these nine months, your skin may encounter various issues like rashes, dryness, irritation, dark patches, and breakouts. To avoid these problems and maintain your skin tone and radiance, you should change your entire skin care routine. This pregnancy-safe skin care guide will assist you in providing the best possible care for your skin during and after your pregnancy. Keep reading to find out how your skin changes during pregnancy, which ingredients are safe, which to avoid, and pregnancy-safe day and night skin care routines.

In This Article

How Does Your Skin Change During Pregnancy?

Here are some skin changes that you are likely to experience if you are expecting.

1. Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are characterized by indented streaks that occur due to stretching of the skin and dryness. According to research , stretch marks develop in up to 90% of expecting women. They are particularly found on the hips, abdomen, buttocks, and breasts during the second and third trimesters. Stretch marks can also affect the emotional and psychological state of expecting moms ( 1 ).

2. Changes In Skin Pigmentation

Hormonal fluctuations are responsible for skin pigmentation during pregnancy. These changes can lead to the darkening of the skin around the genitals, nipples, armpits, and thighs.

You may also notice melasma and pregnancy lines. While the former refers to dark patches on your face, cheeks, upper lip, chin, and forehead and occurs in about 50-70% of pregnant women , the latter is a dark line running from your belly button to pubic bone ( 2 ).

Most pigmentation changes are temporary and become normal after childbirth but may not in some. Still, knowing how to prevent pigmentation during pregnancy can help you tame this issue. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor and prevent their exacerbation.

3. Acne

Acne, the consequence of the sebaceous gland’s hyperactivity, is common during pregnancy. Breakouts can be dry or pus-filled. Some women may also struggle with pregnancy rashes , folliculitis, and inflamed hair follicles caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.

4. Varicose Veins

The growing baby bump, especially during the last months of pregnancy, exerts pressure on the veins. This can lead to enlarged, varicose veins . Although harmless, varicose veins can become itchy, painful, and uncomfortable ( 3 ). Walking, swimming, and specific exercise, such as calf raises, help blood circulation in the legs and alleviate the condition.

The right skin care routine during pregnancy can save your precious skin from any negative changes. Follow the pregnancy-safe skin care tips in the next section and keep your skin healthy.

Key Takeaways

• Increased hormone levels during pregnancy may completely change your skin sensitivity.
• You may experience some issues like acne, pigmentation, and stretch marks, so you must follow a pregnancy-safe skin care routine.
• Keeping your skin hydrated, paying attention to the stretch marks, and using sun protection daily may help keep your skin healthy during this time.
• Ingredients like vitamin C and salicylic acid are safe to use during pregnancy.

How To Care For Your Skin During Pregnancy

1. Hydration Is Most Important

Keeping yourself hydrated is important. It will help prevent the signs of dryness, which is quite common during pregnancy.

Drink sufficient water and moisturize your skin with a good hydrating serum and follow it up with a moisturizer. While the serum will boost the water content in your skin, the moisturizer will lock in nutrients. Use creams or lotions on damp skin for better absorption.

Here are some hydration-boosting drinks you can try:

• Lemon water
• Coconut water
• Fruit juices or smoothies (without sugar)
• Vegetable soups
• Low-fat milk

2. Pay Attention To Stretch Marks

You can keep stretch marks in check by treating dryness. Use hydrating body butters and lotions to prevent dry skin conditions and stretchy skin. Ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin will keep your skin soft and supple. They might also help reduce fine lines and scarring as your belly grows.

Use a toxin-free anti-stretch mark cream from the third or fourth month of pregnancy and continue until two months after birth.

3. Sun Protection Is A Must

Be it pregnancy skin care or your regular skin care routine, sun protection is indispensable. The harmful UVA and UVB rays can adversely affect the skin. Research shows that constant exposure to solar radiation has profound health risks, including pigmentation, wrinkles, and various skin conditions ( 4 ).

Pick mineral-based sunscreens with SPF 30 or more during summers. Also, invest in sun-protection gear, such as sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and full sleeved cotton clothing.

4. Take Care Of Acne

Acne generally occurs during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. If you are prone to acne flare-ups during your menstrual period, you will likely struggle with them when pregnant. You can count on anti-acne skin care products that are safe during pregnancy.

Note: Acne-friendly ingredients like glycolic and salicylic acids should not be used in large quantities during pregnancy. However, they are safe when used in small amounts and not frequently ( 5 ).

5. Up Your Antioxidant Intake

Antioxidants counteract the action of free radicals that can eventually cause premature skin aging. Topical and oral antioxidants like vitamins C and E combat hyperpigmentation and stimulate collagen production( 6 ),( 7 ).

Invest in a vitamin C serum and vitamin E oil. Consume vitamin-rich foods like orange, strawberry, almonds, broccoli, olive oil, and hazelnuts.

6. Additional Tips

• Always use mild cleansers and toxin-free skin care products.
• Avoid bubble baths and hot showers.
• Do pregnancy-safe exercises and facial yoga to keep the skin healthy. Keep your body clean and sweat-free.

Use only pregnancy-safe skin care ingredients to avoid any side effects.

Skin Care Ingredients That Are Safe During Pregnancy

• Glycolic Acid: Although there are no studies examining the effects of glycolic acid on human pregnancy, as it is used superficially, it is relatively safe. Glycolic acid helps treat pigmentation, photodamaged skin, and fine lines . This ingredient is safe when used in small amounts as higher concentrations might lead to irritations and sensitivity ( 8 ).
• Salicylic Acid: According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, topical salicylic acid is safe during pregnancy( 9 ). It is unlikely to pose any risk to a developing baby, such as malformations, preterm birth, or low birth weight ( 5 ). However, consult your doctor before using any product containing salicylic acid.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Your skin absorbs only 5% of benzoyl peroxide when applied topically. This antibacterial skin care ingredient is considered safe during pregnancy ( 5 ).
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a go-to solution to reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone. Dietary vitamin C is considered healthy for both mother and the child. However, it is best to consult your dermatologist before using any topical products.

Note:

The baby’s organs are developing till the first 24 weeks, and during this period, it is advisable to avoid any chemical that is not really required. Also, use benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid with caution.

While these ingredients are safe to use, you also need to avoid certain ingredients.

Skin Care Ingredients To Avoid In Pregnancy

1. Retinoids

Retinoid, a chief ingredient in anti-aging skin care products, diminishes fine lines and wrinkles and restores dull skin. Research shows that the use of synthetic vitamin A, including retinoid and accutane, leads to severe congenital disabilities and other birth defects in babies. Hence, the use of topical retinoids is not advisable during pregnancy ( 10 ).

2. Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone can be dangerous for the developing baby if it gets substantially absorbed into the body. Studies show that about 35% to 45% of this ingredient is absorbed through the skin. It increases the risk of malformations and affects the fetus adversely ( 5 ). Hence, it is better to avoid skin-lightening lotions or creams containing hydroquinone during pregnancy.

3. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde works as a preservative in beauty staples. Exposure to this chemical can lead to miscarriage and fertility problems . It can absorb into the skin and even cause cancer( 11 )

4. Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone, an active ingredient found in chemical sunscreens or anti-tan lotions, is suspected to be an endocrine disruptor( 12 ). It can also contribute to Hirschsprung’s disease . Dermatologists warn pregnant women against the use of oxybenzone as it can harm the fetus.

5. Phthalates

Phthalates, widely used as stabilizers and preservatives in beauty and personal care products, are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with the hormones or mimic them. Besides hampering the reproductive system, these chemicals may also cause developmental, immune, and nervous system disorders during birth ( 13 ).

Follow the tips mentioned below to ensure the products you use are safe for application.

How To Check If Your Skin Care Products Are Safe

• Prepare a list of skin care ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. Compare it with the ingredients list of your products. You can check the banned skin care products by the FDA on their database ( 14 ).
• Speak to your gynecologist and dermatologist to ensure the skin care products are safe to use. Consult them if you have any pre-existing skin concerns and are taking medications.
• Certain apps and tools available on the web can easily scan and scrutinize product ingredients. You can use them to gather valuable information in no time.

It is important to practice a safe skin care routine that does not pose any risk to your baby. Read on for the right steps to ensure your skin stays happy and healthy.

Pregnancy-Safe Day And Night Skin Care Routine

Your pregnancy-safe skincare routine is like your regular skin care regimen, except all products are safe and non-toxic for you and your baby.

Step 1: Begin With A Cleanser

Kick start your pregnancy-safe skin care routine with a mild cleanser. Wash your face with lukewarm water and cleanser to get rid of oil and impurities. You can also use an exfoliating face wash that gently scrubs your skin and clears blocked pores.

Double cleanse with a soothing gel, cleansing milk, or makeup remover at night before washing your face.

Step 2: Follow Up With A Toner

Apply toner after washing your face in the morning and night. Toners are great for balancing the pH levels of the skin and eliminating remnants of impurities. Choose a hydrating toner if you have dry skin and something with aloe vera, green tea, or turmeric for acne-prone skin.

Note: Avoid essential oils, such as rosemary, lavender, and tree oils, to treat acne during pregnancy. These ingredients might sensitize your skin, causing irritation and redness.

Step 3: Apply A Serum And Moisturizer

Pick a serum that targets your skin condition, such as pigmentation, dryness, spots, or nourishment. As serums are lightweight and get absorbed quickly than moisturizers, apply them first. The best is to use a day cream with SPF during the day and night cream before sleeping. A night gel acts as a skin repairing treatment and takes care of aging signs.

Step 4: Count On Eye Cream

Use eye cream at least once a day, preferably at night. This will help maintain the elasticity of the skin on your eyelid. Choose a product with vitamin E to smoothen the wrinkles and fine lines. You can also massage almond oil on the eyelids and under-eye area to ensure your skin does not lose elasticity .

Step 5: Spot Treat Your Face

If you are dealing with skin woes like melasma or acne, use spot treatments. Follow your medicated applications regularly and use anti-stretch marks cream on your hips, belly, and thighs.

Step 6: Slather On The Sunscreen

Add a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen to your pregnancy-safe skin care routine. Make sure to cover your neck, arms, and other body parts with a generous amount of sunscreen. Apply the sunscreen 15 minutes before stepping out. If you plan to spend a long time outdoors or near the pool, use a water-resistant product and reapply it after every hour or two.

During your pregnancy, you will experience various skin issues such as stretch marks, rashes, or acne. That is why it is important to follow a pregnancy skincare routine to keep your skin vibrant and healthy. Following the cleansing-toning-moisturizing routine along with applying some sunscreen can go a long way in keeping your skin healthy. Along with that, drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet will keep your skin hydrated and clear. Ensure that you make a list of ingredients you should avoid and look for products that contain glycolic acid or salicylic acid. Don’t forget to consult your doctor for further information.

At what month does pregnancy glow start?

There is no set timeframe for the pregnancy glow to start and end. Also, each pregnancy is different. However, you may be more likely to start seeing the pregnancy glow in the second trimester.

Is it safe to use hyaluronic acid during pregnancy?

Yes, it is safe to use hyaluronic acid during pregnancy. However, consult your doctor before using it.

Is body scrub good during pregnancy?

Yes, it is safe to use a body scrub during pregnancy. However, consult a doctor if you have pregnancy rashes or any such skin issues.

In this video, a dermatologist shares her expert suggestions on pregnancy skin care. Watch now to learn about managing stretch marks, dryness, acne, dark spots, and itching along with a few effective solutions for these skin concerns.

References

1. Stretch marks during pregnancy: a review of topical prevention https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25255817/
2. Chloasma–the mask of pregnancy https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19140277/
3. Interventions for varicose veins and leg oedema in pregnancy https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7050615/
4. UV Radiation and the Skin https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3709783/
5. Safety of skin care products during pregnancy https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3114665/
6. Vitamin C in dermatology https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/
7. Vitamin E in dermatology https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976416/
8. The effect of glycolic acid on cultured human skin fibroblasts: cell proliferative effect and increased collagen synthesis https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9563274/
9. Skin Conditions During Pregnancy https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy?
10. Pregnancy and isotretinoin therapy https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3602257/
11. Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity of Formaldehyde: A Systematic Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3203331/
12. Can oxybenzone cause Hirschsprung\’s disease? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30831214/
13. Phthalate exposure during pregnancy and long-term weight gain in women https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30408750/
14. Prohibited & Restricted Ingredients in Cosmetics https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/prohibited-restricted-ingredients-cosmetics

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You must have seen so many ingredients that become a rage all of a sudden and become a staple in our skin care routine. Terminalia chebula is one such ingredient. There are multiple ways to use chebula for skin-related issues, the most popular is to add it to various natural remedies. Skin care enthusiasts swear by this ingredient for its immense skin benefits. So, what makes it so effective and beneficial? Is it really worth all the attention it is getting? Keep reading to find out.

What Is It? An evergreen plant in South Asia belonging to the Combretaceae family and bearing fruits with medicinal properties.

What Are Its Benefits? It may help delay aging signs, moisturize and strengthen the skin barrier, and improve its appearance.

Who Can Use It? Anyone who is not allergic to it can use it.

How Often? It can be applied twice a day.

Caution No major side effects are known yet, but best to conduct a patch test before use..

In This Article

Terminalia Chebula: A Brief Background Of The Miracle Berry

Terminalia chebula belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is an evergreen plant native to the wild forests of South Asian countries like India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, and others. The Terminalia chebula fruit also goes by the name of Haritaki, Bihara, Harada, and Chebulic myrobalan.

The Terminalia chebula fruit is small, ribbed, and nut-like with an elliptical or ovoid shape. It is typically plucked for use when green but acquires a distinct yellow to brownish-orange shade when unpicked. Beneath the firm and fleshy layers of the fruit rests a single-angled stone that bears a convoluted and abrasive surface.

The fruit has been used for centuries as an active ingredient in the treatment of chronic ulcers, heart ailments, and dental caries. The Thai alternative medicine uses chebula for curing skin conditions and promoting wound healing.

In India, Ayurveda hails chebula as the king of medicine. In fact, it is one of the ingredients of Triphala – a common Ayurvedic herb that finds diverse uses in strengthening and nourishing the body. So it is regarded as a potent herbal medicine.

Key Takeaways

• Thai alternative medicine and Ayurveda support the claims of Terminalia chebula berries aiding wound healing and managing skin conditions.
• These berries are said to have anti-aging and moisturizing properties and enhance the appearance of the skin.
• Chebula berries can be added to face packs or are also available in the form of pills, serums, and powders.

Benefits Of Chebula For The Skin

The cosmetic use of Terminalia chebula does not enjoy a body of scientific research and trials. However, several small-scale studies, preliminary research, and anecdotal claims support the use of this fruit.

1. May Help Slow Down Skin Aging

Chebula has powerful antioxidant properties. It contains bioactive compounds like glutathione i A substance produced by the liver involved in many body processes like tissue building, protein-making, and immune system support. , superoxide dismutase i An enzyme found in all living cells that helps break down reactive oxygen molecules, potentially preventing tissue damage. , and vitamins C and E. In rat studies, the fruit was found to neutralize free radicals and mitigate the effects of oxidative stress i A condition that occurs due to the overproduction of reactive oxygen molecules. Its effect on skin includes hyperpigmentation and aging. ( 1 ). Studies show that oxidative stress may accelerate skin aging ( 2) .

The effects of polyphenols i Compounds found in many plant foods, like teas and fruits, with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. derived from the Terminalia chebula extract were found to last long and be more effective than any other naturally occurring antioxidant ( 3 ). Polyphenols are known to protect the skin from the aging effects of UV radiation ( 4 ).

2. May Help Moisturize Your Skin

Skin hydration is key to younger and healthy-looking skin. Research demonstrates that chebula-based creams could boost skin moisture content and rejuvenate it ( 5 ). Another study found that Terminalia chebula fruit extract penetrated the inner layers of the skin and affected its complete architecture ( 6 ). This property may make your skin supple, firm, smooth, and promote natural radiance.

3. May Strengthen Your Skin Barrier

Skin care products containing Terminalia chebula improve the skin’s barrier function . The fruit extract shields the skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s UVB rays, which may help improve skin complexion. It also stimulates collagen production and increases the thickness of the cellular matrix for further protection. The fruit can effectively combat photodamage while also reinforcing the dermal layers ( 7 ).

4. May Boost Your Skin Appearance

Terminalia chebula can soften skin, even out its texture, and brighten its overall appearance. This is possible due to its ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate wound healing. Terminalia chebula fruit extracts were found to display anti-psoriatic effects ( 8 ). They could decrease skin layer thickening and improve the appearance of erythema i Abnormal skin redness with varying color and pattern, resulting from inflammation, environmental factors, infection, sunburn, or injury. , scales, and sores. The fruit may also reduce free radical production while leaving the normal skin architecture unaltered. Your skin appearance can improve as a result.

These are the important benefits of Terminalia chebula for the skin. But how can you make use of it?

How To Use Chebula In Skin Care?

Terminalia chebula fruit extracts are used as key ingredients in several serums, pills, powders, and tinctures. You can purchase them in the form that suits you best. Follow the directions mentioned on the packaging for best results. Alternatively, you can also get creative and mix some Terminalia chebula powder into your face pack to boost the overall effectiveness of your skincare regimen.

Terminalia chebula serums are the most popular of all forms. Here is a quick step-by-step breakdown on how to apply one:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
2. Spray on some face mist or toner and let your skin absorb it.
3. Apply three to eight drops of the chebula serum, spread it evenly across your face, and let it sit.
4. Follow with a layer of moisturizer and some sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage.

Kundalini Yogini, a Youtuber, shared her personal experience with Terminalia chebula, called haritaki in the video. She says, “Clean the body with haritaki. It’s a really nice scrub actually. If you’re into facials, masks, anything like this, you can wash your face with it every night and it completely clears the pores, cleanses the skin, and makes the skin very tight and anti-aging ( i ).”

Side Effects Of Chebula For The Skin

The safety regarding the long-term use of Terminalia chebula fruit or its extracts is not well researched yet. However, the fruit seems to be generally safe in its various forms and on different skin types. In fact, preliminary research, as discussed, supports the beneficial effects of Terminalia chebula on your skin. While more human studies are warranted, using it on your skin should be safe.

However, conduct a patch test before applying it to your skin. Consult your physician before taking it orally.

Summing It Up

Terminalia chebula is an herb used across various Southeastern countries for the treatment of various heart ailments and skin conditions. Anecdotal evidence suggests that using chebula for your skin is beneficial in various ways. Its antioxidant and wound-healing properties may slow down aging, hydrate your skin, and improve the appearance of your skin. A lesser known anti-aging herb , it is available in the form of pills, face powder, and serums. While there is limited research regarding the safety of chebula, conduct a patch test before applying it.

While the information on its side effects is limited, we suggest you do a patch test before using it topically. Regular use of this wonder fruit can offer you pleasing results.

Is chebula good for pimples?

According to Anna Chacon, Dermatologist, “Terminalia chebula, also known as “the king of medicines,” has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the number of acne lesions and soften and brighten the skin. Its antibacterial power also guards the face against unwanted bacteria that can cause more breakouts.”

Is chebula good for acne?

Yes. The extracts of Terminalia chebula showed significant inhibition of lipase activity (which plays an important role in the development of acne) ( 9 ).

Is chebula good for dark spots?

Chebula is rich in antioxidants that act against oxidative damage and free radicals. It treats several skin conditions like acne, pimples, and dark spots. However, limited research is available in this regard.

How long does Terminalia chebula take to work for the skin?

According to Anna Chacon, Dermatologist, “The topical use of chebula has shown effect within a week of use, in the morning and at night time. But like any other beauty product, effects vary from person to person.”

Illustration: Terminalia Chebula: History, How To Use, And Risks

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Terminalia chebula is a powerful medicinal herb with many health benefits. Learn how it can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.

Personal Experience: Source

StyleCraze’s articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.

References

1. Effect of Terminalia chebula aqueous extract on oxidative stress and antioxidant status in the liver and kidney of young and aged rats https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cbf.1581
2. Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4496685/
3. Antioxidant activity of polyphenolic extract of Terminalia chebula Retzius fruits https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1658365514000818
4. Polyphenols: Skin Photoprotection and Inhibition of Photocarcinogenesis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3288507/
5. Formulation and characterization of a cream containing terminalia chebula extract https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22398922/
6. A standardized Terminalia chebula fruit extract alters the expression of genes associated with skin architecture and barrier formation https://www.jle.com/fr/revues/ejd/e-docs/a_standardized_terminalia_chebula_fruit_extract_alters_the_expression_of_genes_associated_with_skin_architecture_and_barrier_formation_318673/article.phtml
7. Ethanol extract of Terminalia chebula fruit protects against UVB-induced skin damage https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27222341/
8. Terminalia Chebulanin Attenuates Psoriatic Skin Lesion via Regulation of Heme Oxygenase-1 https://www.karger.com/Article/Fulltext/445645
9. Inhibition of Propionibacterium acnes lipase by extracts of Indian medicinal plants https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22268921/

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