Maternity Fashion And Swimwear

Fluctuating Hormones during pregnancy can affect your complexion and the condition of your hair. You may find that at the start of your pregnancy you suffer from oily skin only for it to become dry the next month.

Some products, such as hair colourings, may also not be safe for use during pregnancy as they could damage the unborn baby.

The important thing to remember is that skin and hair changes during pregnancy are perfectly normal and not a cause for great worry.

So what can you do to ensure your make-up, cosmetic and hair routines keep your pregnancy glow shining bright?

Pregnancy Skin Care

In the early stages of pregnancy you may be prone to oily skin and as a result breakouts of spots, pimples or acne.

The first few months of pregnancy show an increase in your androgen levels (the male growth hormones) which cause increased oil production in your skin which can block pores and lead to spots or pimples.

Acne medications cannot be used during pregnancy as they could harm the growing foetus. Lotions containing Vitamin A derivatives, such as Accutane, Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, should also be avoided as well as creams containing retinol.

Antibiotics should not be used for treating acne or skin complaints either during pregnancy or for other conditions unless adivsed by your doctor.

Makeup, moisturisers and cleansers containing chemicals such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and alpha and beta hydroxy acids should not be used in early pregnancy.

The best way to cleanse your skin is to use a gentle face scrub or exfoliant which does not contain any chemicals. These contain tiny particles which remove dead skin cells and clear pores of any blockages.

Use a gentle cleanser on your face and avoid moisturising soaps which contain emolients as they can cause buildup and clog pores.

If you spend time in the sun you can still use a sunblock but choose a brand which is oil-free.

If your skin becomes extra oily you can use blotting papers to soak up any excess shine on your face.

In the later stages of pregnancy your skin may become dry as moisture is taken from your body to help the baby grow. Dry skin may appear on your hands, arms and feet as well as on your face.

Avoid creams and ointments which contain cortisone or hydrocortisone as these can be absorbed by your body and may affect the baby.

The best way to treat dry skin is to drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated.

Wash your skin and face with a gentle cleanser and if preferred choose one which is formulated for dry skin. After washing use a good moisturiser to nourish and enrich your skin.

If you suffer from excessive dry skin try a chemical free scrub or exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.

Another factor is bathing or showering too often as the heat from the water can also dry out skin. Take short, cool showers and baths and use a gentle soap or shower gel for cleaning yourself.

Pregnancy Hair Care

When you are pregnant your hair can be affected not only be your hormonal changes but your changing shape and face. Managing complex and tricky styles can also become a chore if you are feeling tired or drained.

Many women think that simply getting a new, short hair style during pregnancy will be the best approach but this does not always mean your hair will be more manageable.

Keep your hair in a style that you like and find easy to manage so you can style your hair as quickly and easily as possible. If you face does get fuller during pregnancy, due to weight gain or fluid changes, you could consider a different style to flatter your features but it is best to consult your hairdresser or stylist for advice.

If you curl your hair using a hair product you should choose one which is chemical free and use curlers or tongs instead to achieve the style you want.

Having a low-maintenance style is the best option and will carry over for when you have given birth. A style or cut which does not need too much daily styling will be easy to maintain and having a length which can be easily pulled back, lifted up or styled away is the best.

Colouring Hair during Pregnancy

Opinions differ on whether you should avoid all hair colouring chemicals completely or whether they are safe after the first trimester, however general advice is to opt for highlights as the chemicals are applied via foil onto the hair and do not touchthe skin directly.

If you are considering colouring your hair during pregnancy you should consult your hairdresser or stylist for the best advice.

If you are colouring your hair yourself then choose a chemical free preparation if possible and be sure to use a colouring cap, keep the product away from your scalp (apply it to your hair only) and wear gloves to protect your hands.

Apply the hair colour preparation in a well ventilated room as it is easy to inhale the fumes from the formula.

You may also want to consider using vegetable hair dyes, which usually contain fewer chemicals than conventional dyes.