We’re here to help by answering one of your most common questions and clearing up some common misconceptions about what you should and shouldn’t use while pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

Pregnancy creates substantial changes in the hormonal system, which impacts metabolism, the immune and vascular systems – all of which can affect the skin.

It has been shown that most pregnant women will notice some sort of change in their skin.

Common skin changes include increased pigmentation on the face (melasma), stretch marks, skin oiliness, acne, broken capillaries and eczema or psoriasis.

Other women may experience the ‘pregnancy glow’, which could be the result of increased circulation and oil production, but just enough to boost skin hydration and luminosity.

Some women won’t see any skin changes at all, and others experience changes post pregnancy such as hair shedding, stretch marks, or dry or sensitive skin whilst breastfeeding due to dehydration.

We’re often asked what products can and can’t be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding and whilst we always recommend speaking with your doctor we’ve listed a few of our suggestions below

YES: AHAs, Vitamin C , Vitamin B , Niacinamide, Sunscreen (both physical and chemical), Benzoyl Peroxide, Salycilic Acid 2% or less, Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides.

NO: Hydroquinone , Retinoids  ( Renova, Retin A, Differin, Tretinoin), Retinol, Essential Oils (Clary Sage, Cinnamon, Wormwood, Parsley Seed, Fennel, Aniseed, Blackpepper, Pepermint, Thyme & Mugwart),  Synthetic Fragrance, Chemicals with long unpronounceable  names.

Where possible avoid unnecessary fragrance, alcohols and preservatives and look for low-irritant or low-allergy products.

We believe sun protection is the number one skincare product to be used every single day of the year, and our other essentials during pregnancy and breastfeeding (and every other day) include anti-inflammatory vitamin B3 (niacinaminde), alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to increase cell turnover, decrease congestion, and improve hydration, and a moisturiser to hydrate and protect the face and body.

Unfortunately you will need to avoid most cosmetic procedures including lasers and cosmetic injectables due to no studies in pregnancy but professional peels and hydration treatments might be useful for those dealing with acne or pigmentation, so check with our highly experienced Dermal Clinicians about any treatments that might be beneficial.

Now is not the time to worry too much about anti-ageing.

This is a special time. Congratulations!