Pregnancy is a very special time in your life. How many changes do your body go through during this time? Some people get beautiful, glowing skin and silky hair during this time. But not everyone is so lucky. Some people get acne, blemishes, and stretch marks . So, at times like these, you might think, "Oh, I should give my face a little treatment, like a facial." But there's also a fear in the back of your mind that this will harm the baby in your belly, right? Don't worry. Let's talk about everything clearly today.
What happens to the skin during pregnancy?
With the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, you may notice many changes in your skin. Things like varicose veins or stretch marks below the neck can be covered up with clothing. However, many people are uncomfortable with the changes that occur on the face. A facial can provide some relief from these things.
The most common skin problems during pregnancy are:
- Acne : The sudden appearance of pimples all over the face.
- Dark spots: Also called ``Melasma'' or ``Chloasma'', these are brown spots that appear on the forehead, cheeks, and above the nose.
- Itchiness: Dry skin can cause itching.
- Unwanted hair growth: Excessive hair growth on the face and other parts of the body.
The good news is that most of these skin changes will go away on their own after the baby is born. However, until then, there's nothing wrong with thinking about safety precautions rather than worrying about them.
Is getting a facial really dangerous?
Simply put, it's not that dangerous. However, some facial treatments can be risky for you and your baby during pregnancy. The most important thing is to talk to your doctor and your esthetician before doing anything to make sure it's safe.
The main thing we need to focus on here is to avoid invasive treatments that damage the skin . Because if the skin is injured during a treatment, there is a small chance that an infection will occur. An infection that occurs during pregnancy can sometimes become serious. Also, your body's wound healing pattern may change a little during pregnancy. Therefore, it is not a good idea to take risks.
What facial treatments are safe and which ones should be avoided?
Even during pregnancy, you have the right to be beautiful and take care of your skin. But we should only choose the safest methods that will not harm the baby. Let's see what is good and what is bad in the table below.
| Treatment Type | Is it suitable during pregnancy? (Advice for Pregnancy) |
|---|---|
| 👍 Safe & Recommended Treatments | |
| Standard Facial | A simple facial that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and moisturizes is very safe. However, get it done at a place that uses natural, chemical-free cosmetics. |
| Superficial Peels | Peels that don't penetrate the skin deeply, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, are safe. These are also used for acne during pregnancy. |
| Shaving & Waxing | These are completely safe because they only affect the surface of the skin. |
| 👎 Treatments to Avoid or Use Extreme Caution (Avoid or Use Extreme Caution ) | |
| Deep Chemical Peels | Avoid peels that go deep into the skin, such as salicylic acid. These increase the risk of skin spots and scarring. |
| Topical Retinoids | There is evidence that this type of acne medication can harm the baby during pregnancy. Avoid it completely. |
| Laser & Electrolysis | These permanent hair removal methods have not been tested for safety during pregnancy. Electrolysis, which uses electricity, is especially not suitable. |
| Botox & Dermal Fillers | Because there is a risk of infection when injecting botulinum toxin (Botox) and dermal fillers , it is wise to avoid these until the end of pregnancy. |
Why do we need to stay away from certain things?
Okay, now you have a rough idea of what's good and what's bad. Let's look in a little more detail at why you should avoid certain things.
Deep Chemical Peels
These peels remove the top layers of skin. Your skin is very sensitive during pregnancy. If you do a deep peel at a time like this, you are more likely to have skin discoloration and scarring.
Topical Retinoids
These are powerful creams made from `Vitamin A`. They are used to treat conditions like acne, skin wrinkles, and `Psoriasis`. However, it has been found that these can be absorbed through the skin and harm the baby. Therefore, check if the `cream` you are using has a name like `Retinoid`, `Retinol`, `Tretinoin`. If so, stop using it immediately and talk to your doctor .
Laser and Electrolysis
Laser treatments can sometimes cause skin discoloration. Electrolysis uses a very low-level electrical current to pass through the body. Since the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby conducts electricity, it is suspected that this could cause some harm to the baby. Therefore, it is best to postpone both of these until after delivery.
Dermal Fillers
These are things that are injected into the skin. The chances of infection at the injection site are slightly higher during pregnancy, so it doesn't make sense to take this risk.
Take-Home Message
- You have every right to pamper yourself during pregnancy. Simple, superficial facials, such as a cucumber scrub or a face massage, can be safely done.
- Do not undergo any invasive treatments that injure or pierce the skin. The risk of infection is high.
- Avoid things like `(Retinoids)`, deep `(Chemical Peels)`, `(Laser)` treatments, and `(Electrolysis)` completely.
- Always tell your beautician/esthetician that you are pregnant. They will recommend the safest options for you.
- Most importantly: Before getting any facial or beauty treatment, always consult your doctor . That's the best way to choose the safest option for you and your baby.
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