Although most women are happy being pregnant, some feel they don’t look their best. Unflattering maternity wear, problem skin, achy, swollen feet, puffiness due to water retention and the threat of stretch marks can seriously dim pregnancy radiance.
Skin Care For Pregnant Women
Whether a mum is confident enough to show off her bump with a cropped top or only outs her bump on a beach, all women wish for a beautiful bump. Even the least vain woman in the world would want to avoid stretch marks.
Before buying a beauty product to prevent stretch marks, it’s best to check the ingredients carefully. Ingredients that are safe and effective against stretch marks are: cocoa butter, vitamin E and oils such as almond, castor and avocado. If a mum wants to go for a budget product, olive oil is very good.
It's recommended to rub a cream or oil at least twice a day on the stomach, hips and breasts. For best results, it’s advisable to continue this after the birth.
Lotions and potions are not enough. Pregnant women should drink at least eight glasses of water a day because hydration keeps skin elastic and maintains collagen production at good levels. A balanced diet that includes vitamins E and C will also keep skin looking fresh. It’s advisable to go easy on vitamin A (called retinol in beauty products), as excess of this vitamin might cause birth defects. If in doubt, always consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Perfect Complexion For Pregnant Ladies
Skin might glow but hormonal changes may lead to spots, oversensitivity or dryness. It’s best not to use harsh cleansers as they will strip the skin’s protective oils. Creams with vitamin E help, but it’s advisable to check they are suitable for pregnant women.
If a mum is treating herself with a facial, she should tell the beauty therapist she is pregnant if not physically obvious as not all products are safe.
No More Puffy Eyes
Two chilled tea bags placed on eyelids while a mum relaxes on the sofa are still an effective, budget option to soothe puffy, red eyes. Thin slices of chilled cucumber are a good alternative.
If a pregnant lady wants to treat herself to an eye cream, it’s advisable to check the packaging carefully, especially if the product has anti-ageing properties as ingredients can irritate the skin, which is more sensitive during pregnancy.
Fitness For Pregnant Ladies
Pregnancy might be a good excuse to become a couch potato, but being fit makes labour easier. Health experts recommend gentle exercise because it keeps a mum's spirits up and helps to build stamina, which is needed at delivery.
It’s best to avoid high-impact aerobics and certain activities like running, horse riding and cycling. Care should be taken not to overstretch as ligaments and joints soften in pregnancy and it’s easier to strain them. Yoga, Pilates, walking and swimming (no breast stroke, though) are perfect.
Be Beautiful, Be Safe: Product Advice For Pregnant Women
Pregnancy doesn’t only alter the shape or weight of a woman. Hormonal changes affect skin sensitivity and women are understandably concerned about the use of chemicals, which are present in many beauty products. Here are a few safety tips:
- Anti-ageing creams might irritate the skin. It’s best to check with a doctor before using skincare products containing retinoids (vitamin A) or acne medications.
- Fake tan is safe, but as the skin is more sensitive, it’s recommended to do a patch test to avoid unsightly reactions.
- Hair dyes - there is no evidence they harm a baby but mums who are worried about nasty chemicals can go for natural, vegetable dyes (without ammonia and hydrogen peroxide) or natural henna.
- Some aromatherapy oils are not suitable, so it’s best to seek advice before buying an oil or having a treatment.
Source:
Babycentre.com "Safe Skin During Pregnancy" (accessed February 9, 2010)
