Skin care during pregnancy - What you need to know

What skin changes occur during pregnancy?

Hormonal changes and their effects on the skin

The hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy affect the skin in various ways. Especially the increase in estrogen and progesterone can lead to the skin producing more sebum or suddenly becoming more sensitive. The hormone progesterone can also cause increased blood flow, resulting in a rosy complexion but can also lead to dilated blood vessels, known as spider veins. These hormonal changes make it necessary to adjust skincare and opt for gentle, well-tolerated products.

Common skin problems: Pigment spots, acne, stretch marks, dry skin

The most common skin problems during pregnancy include:

• Pigment spots (melasmas): Increased melanin production can cause dark spots on the face, especially on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip.
• Acne: Hormonal fluctuations can stimulate sebum production and lead to increased impurities.
• Stretch marks: The rapid growth of the belly and breasts often leads to stretch marks, which initially appear reddish and later fade.
• Dry skin: Many women suffer from dry skin as the moisture balance gets disrupted. Regular moisturizing is particularly important here.

Skincare during pregnancy should not only address individual skin needs but also help counteract hormonal changes and resulting skin problems.

The Best Ingredients for Skincare During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, not only does the skin change, but so do the requirements for skincare products. It is important to choose ingredients that are both safe and effective to support the skin while avoiding risks for the unborn child. Here are the best ingredients for skincare during pregnancy:

• Moisturizers: Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin

Well-moisturized skin is essential during pregnancy to prevent dryness and tightness. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are excellent moisturizers that help retain moisture in the skin without overburdening it. They provide a plump and healthy complexion and support the skin's natural regeneration.

• Soothing Ingredients: Aloe Vera, Panthenol

Pregnancy skin can be more sensitive and prone to irritation. Ingredients like aloe vera and panthenol have soothing properties and help alleviate irritations. Aloe vera moisturizes and has anti-inflammatory effects, while panthenol helps regenerate the skin and strengthen its protective barrier.

• Care for Sensitive Skin: Shea Butter, Squalane

For expectant mothers with sensitive skin, natural ingredients like shea butter and squalane are ideal. Shea butter deeply nourishes the skin and improves its elasticity, which is particularly important in preventing stretch marks. Squalane, a skin-like lipid, strengthens the skin barrier and promotes smoothness without irritating the skin.

• Ingredients to Avoid: Retinoids, Acnacidol™, Azeloglicina®

While some ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy, there are also active ingredients that are best avoided. These include retinoids found in many anti-aging products as they can increase the risk of malformations. Acnacidol™ and Azeloglicina® should also be avoided during pregnancy as they may be too strong for the delicate skin of pregnant women. Instead, it is recommended to opt for gentler alternatives that protect and nourish the skin without taking risks.

Recommended and Safe Skincare Routine for Pregnant Women

During pregnancy, the skin needs special care to stay healthy and radiant. Here is our recommended routine that provides gentle cleansing and targeted care:

Double Cleansing with Foam and Face Tonic

For thorough and gentle cleansing, we recommend our Foam Sensitive or Foam Intense depending on your skin type. These products gently remove dirt and excess sebum without drying out the skin. Then our Tonic Sensitive or Tonic Intense is used to refine pores and prepare the skin for the following care.

Serums for Intensive Care

After cleansing, apply highly effective serums to specifically care for the skin:

• Hyaluron Lifting Serum for intense moisture and plump skin.
• Collagen Serum to promote skin elasticity.
• Booster Serum for an instant refresh.
• Vit C + Biobotox Serum for brightening and firming the skin.

Moisturizing and Sunscreen

Our Anti-Pollution Day Cream with SPF 30+ provides skin with moisture, protects against harmful environmental influences and UV rays. It is the ideal day care during pregnancy, ensuring comprehensive protection and a fresh complexion.

Night Care for Pregnant Women

For skin regeneration during the night, there are several options available depending on skin needs:

• Night Cream Light for light moisture.
• Night Cream Rich for intensive care.
• Collagen Night Cream for skin tightening.
• Time Machine, our luxurious night cream for ultimate regeneration and anti-aging effects.

Avoid Retinol Serums and Aggressive Peels

Retinol serums and aggressive peels should be avoided during pregnancy as they can irritate sensitive skin. Instead, we recommend opting for the gentle and effective alternatives mentioned above.

Products for Stretch Marks and Skin Firming

During pregnancy, rich oils and creams are especially important to promote skin elasticity and tighten the tissue to prevent stretch marks. Our scar care products, like the Vit C + Biobotox Serum and the Anti-Pollution Day Cream, are also excellent for supporting the skin.

• Vit C + Biobotox Serum: This serum not only helps brighten and firm the skin but also promotes tissue regeneration, making it ideal for caring for stretch marks and scars. Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant that stimulates collagen production and can improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
• Anti-Pollution Day Cream: This cream not only protects the skin from environmental influences but also contains moisturizing and firming ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier. It helps keep the skin elastic, reducing the likelihood of stretch marks, while also protecting the skin from premature aging, ensuring a healthy skin appearance.

Tips for Preventing and Caring for Stretch Marks

Effects of Oils and Creams

Stretch marks occur due to the rapid stretching of the skin during pregnancy, especially on the abdomen, breasts, and hips. To promote skin elasticity, rich oils and creams are essential. Oils like Jojoba and Argan oil penetrate deeply into the skin and strengthen its natural barrier. Creams with moisturizing ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid or Shea Butter help to keep the skin supple and minimize the appearance of stretch marks.

When and How to Treat Stretch Marks

Prevention ideally begins early in pregnancy. Daily application of moisturizing products and gentle massage promote skin elasticity. If stretch marks still appear, they can be treated, especially in the early stage (when they are still reddish or purple), with special care products like Vitamin C + Biobotox Serum. This serum supports collagen production and helps improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. After pregnancy, treatment with our Retinol Serum is recommended, as the retinol is particularly effective for scar treatment. Retinol accelerates cell renewal and supports skin regeneration, making it ideal for reducing stretch marks and scars.

The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle for Beautiful Skin During Pregnancy

Nutrition Tips: Nutrients for Healthy Skin

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in skin health, especially during pregnancy. The following nutrients are particularly important:

• Vitamin C: Promotes collagen production and acts as an antioxidant that protects the skin from harmful influences.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fatty acids support skin health by strengthening the skin barrier function and reducing inflammation.
• Zinc and Biotin: These trace elements promote cell renewal and are essential for a healthy skin structure.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats can provide optimal nourishment for the skin during pregnancy.

Adequate Fluid Intake and Sleep for Radiant Skin

Adequate fluid intake is essential to provide the skin with sufficient moisture and promote elasticity. It is recommended to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day during pregnancy. Equally important is sufficient sleep. Getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night supports the natural regeneration of the skin. During sleep, the stress hormone cortisol is reduced, helping the skin to recover and look fresh.

Stress Management and Its Positive Effects on the Skin

Stress can have negative effects on the skin as it promotes inflammation and makes the skin more susceptible to blemishes and dryness. Especially during pregnancy, it is important to integrate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or simple breathing exercises into everyday life. These methods not only help reduce stress but also have a positive impact on the skin.

Consultation with a Doctor or Dermatologist

Skin care during pregnancy should always be carefully tailored to minimize potential risks for you and your unborn child. Some ingredients, such as retinoids or certain chemical peels, can have negative effects and should be avoided. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist before using new products or ingredients. They can help you find products that are safe and effectively care for your skin without taking unnecessary risks.