Pregnancy-safe Skincare

Pregnancy brings about a lot of change in the female body. For one, pregnant women experience a sudden and dramatic increase in estrogen and progesterone—this could be the reason for that pregnancy *glow* that you hear about. You may also experience sensory changes, excess weight gain, fluid retention, and changes to you skin, hair, and nails. Your skincare needs will begin to change, and likely so will the kinds of products you use.

SKINCARE WHILE PREGnant

The skin-related side effects of pregnancy aren’t talked about much, but are important to be aware of—both for the mom and the baby. There are two main concerns when it comes to pregnancy-safe skincare:

• Products may be absorbed into your bloodstream and can affect the growth or development of your baby.

• Your skin may become more sensitive than usual, and you may experience allergic reactions to skin care products, including both new products being introduced to your routine and products you’ve been using for years.

You’ll want to make sure that the products you’re using are safe for the baby, and if your skin becomes sensitive then switch to gentle and fragrance-free skincare products.

CHANGES IN SKIN/BODY

Apart from the obvious changes a woman’s body goes through during pregnancy, there are also changes that can happen to your skin that you may not know about. These skin changes may look like stretch marks, increased sensitivity to products and outside elements, skin tags, Melasma (which causes patches of discoloration on your face), excess production of sebum (an oily substance from your sebaceous glands), which can lead to increased acne, and a flushed face. Melasma is very common, up to 70% of pregnant women experience some type of hyperpigmentation and a darkening of the face during pregnancy. The hyperpigmentation may be worsened with sun exposer, so be sure you’re wearing a broad spectrum SPF. This should fade on its own after the pregnancy.

WHAT TO AVOID

There are some skincare products and treatments that we know are definitely not good to use during pregnancy:

• Retinol (Retinoids)

• Hydroquinone (a skin-lightening agent)

• Salicylic acid in high doses

• Cosmetic treatments such as Botox, fillers, and lasers

• Exfoliating treatments such as microdermabrasion, peels, or exfoliation masks

WHAT IS OK

• Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers

• Hyaluronic acid

• Most AHA's acids are pregnancy safe (we recommend Lactic and Mandelic, both of which can help improve pigmentation and also clear breakouts)

• Vitamin C serum (good for brightening, anti-aging, and has antioxidant properties)

Pregnancy-safe treatments at sacred skincare

• Deep Cleanse Facial: for those who want to cleanse and balance skin completely.

• Beauty Shamans Facial: a luxurious anti-aging skincare treatment that transforms dull skin into a glowing complexion.

• HydraInfusion Facial: skin is immediately plumped and hydrated after the service leaving the skin glowing.

• Gua Sha Detox: an advanced lymphatic drainage facial geared to relieve muscle tension, reduce swelling, strengthen collagen and promote a clear complexion.

• Dermaplaning: a simple and safe procedure for manually exfoliating the outer layer of the dermis. It also removes the skin of peach fuzz.

• Lactic or Mandelic Peel: These gentle peels are a great way to improve the texture and tone of skin.

*Plus, to make your service as comfortable as possible, we offer pregnancy pillows to put under your back!