Pregnancy entails drastic changes in your body — your skin is no exception. Every mom-to-be deserves a good skin care routine, but many conventional skincare products contain chemicals potentially harmful to your baby. This is why switching to vegan ones is essential.

Why Choose Vegan Skin Care During Pregnancy?

Your health is a priority when you’re pregnant. Aside from eating healthy foods, it’s also essential to use the right skincare products. Vegan products are free from chemicals, toxins and allergens that can potentially harm you or your baby. Opting for these means supporting your health and the environment’s welfare.

However, “vegan” is different from “cruelty-free”. Just because something carries a label doesn’t automatically make it vegan. It just means it’s not tested on animals, so it may still contain animal-derived ingredients.

On that note, vegan products are naturally cruelty-free. Look for labels, like PETA or Leaping Bunny, to verify vegan claims.

SkinCare Products to Avoid When Pregnant

Take extra care when purchasing your skincare items. The following is a list of products and ingredients experts recommend you avoid during pregnancy:

Retinoids

Oral and topical retinoids — vitamin-A-based products including retinol, isotretinoin, tretinoin and adapalene — help reduce acne and fine lines. While they may be great anti-aging solutions, they can also cause congenital disabilities, including growth delays and heart abnormalities. To be safe, avoid using your vitamin A products until after you’re done breastfeeding.

Alternative: Hyaluronic, glycolic or azelaic acid.

Essential Oils

Essential oils have the reputation of being safe and effective. However, according to board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, FAAD, via Vogue, you should consult your doctor before trying a new one.

For instance, tea tree oil — a known acne treatment — can cause dermatitis and estrogenic effects. If you’re dealing with acne, consider managing it differently.

Alternative: Vegan azelaic acid.

Chemical Sunscreens

Sunscreens may contain toxins known to disrupt hormones and cause skin allergies. Avoid those containing harsh chemicals, such as oxybenzone, that may harm the marine environment.

Alternative: Vegan, mineral sunscreens containing SPF 30 and UVA/UVB protection to provide maximum shield against harmful sunrays.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is commonly used to help heal acne and scars. However, it can be too intense for sensitive skin. Switch to a milder exfoliant that contains cruelty-free ingredients and can help with acne without the associated risks.

Alternative: Cruelty-free products containing lemon juice, which can help lighten acne scars and dark spots.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is commonly used as a lightening agent. It can be tempting to use it if you have melasma, but it’s best to avoid using items that contain it while expecting, due to limited data proving its safety during pregnancy.

Alternative: Vitamin C cream or serum.

3 Vegan Brands for Pregnant Moms

As the demand for sustainable skin care intensifies, many brands offer eco-conscious products for pregnant women.

1. Belli Skincare

This skincare line offers a range of products free from ingredients linked to congenital disabilities. All products are free of animal testing and by-products, making them safe for all skin types. Crowd favorites include the Anti-Blemish Facial Wash, Acne Control Spot Treatment and Pure Radiance Sunscreen.

2. basq NYC

basq NYC only uses plant extracts safe for pregnant women. Its collection includes face creams, body lotions and scrubs to help keep your skin looking healthy. The company also offers items which target common pregnancy concerns, such as stretch marks, dry skin and swelling.

3. Well People

Well People is committed to providing vegan, cruelty-free products that deliver results. It offers items specifically designed for pregnant women, including exfoliating powders, a soothing face cleanser and an eye cream.

Enjoy Healthy Pregnancy Skin 

Get your radiant glow while keeping you and your baby healthy. Vegan, cruelty-free skincare products ensure your skin looks healthy today and when you welcome your bundle of joy.