A Dermal Therapist’s Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Routine
Yads Cauchi is a Dermal Clinician, Nutritionist (BHSc, MSc) and Beauty Journalist. She's also a mum of four. Evidence based skin health and nutrition are her thing and she works from her own skin clinic based in Canberra - you can find her there, or on Instagram and TikTok @yadscauchiskin.
With so many rapid changes to your body, navigating your way around a new pregnancy safe skin care routine can unfortunately be an added stress you just don’t have time for.
To make things simple, Dermal therapist, Journalist and Mum, Yadira Cauchi talks us through her pregnancy safe skin care routine, offering her best advice and tips.
This pregnancy safe skin care routine is all about hydrating and nourishing the skin, and provides some clear guidance as to what products and ingredients you should minimise in your safe skin care routine for pregnancy, and which ones you should completely avoid.
She'll also point you to the best face moisturiser to use when pregnant, and answer 'is hyaluronic acid safe to use during pregnancy?'
Yads’ safe skin care routine for pregnancy is based on personal experience, as well as trial and error, so make sure you consult a Doctor or Dermatologist before making any changes to your own skincare regimen during pregnancy.
What Skincare Products are Safe During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a great time to simplify your skincare routine, stick to minimal formulas and try more natural products.
However, pregnancy is also a time where a few skin treatments become an absolute no-no. These treatments include, but are not limited to, Retinol (or vitamin A), advanced skin treatments (such as laser), Hydroquinone and injectables.
Some of these treatments can be absorbed through the skin and can interfere with foetal development. So all in all, it’s best to avoid the risk and give them a skip for the time being.
Are Active Serums Pregnancy Safe?
Using active serums while pregnant, such as exfoliants, is something that is heavily debated. While Retinol and high concentrations of Salicylic acid should be avoided, some people can tolerate the use of some AHA’s, and consider them important pregnancy skin care for a glowing complexion.
If you feel like skipping the acids, that’s totally fine! We recommend using a gentle (pregnancy safe) physical exfoliant or a muslin cloth. Otherwise, there are some gentle chemical exfoliants you can use, just make sure you check in with your doctor before making any changes to your skin care routine or diet. They'll point you to the best skin care for pregnancy Australia wide.
A Nourishing Pregnancy-Safe Routine:
Step 1: Always double cleanse
Step 1: Always double cleanse
Yadira starts her double cleanse with the , which uses Vitamin E and Omega-6 to remove makeup and support the skin’s barrier. For a cheaper option, go in with to soften and gently cleanse the skin. In both cases, emulsify before rinsing.
Step 2: Second cleanser
Step 2: Second cleanser
Following your oil or balm-like cleanser, go in with a gentle gel cleanser like the . This cleanser can be used morning and night.
Step 3: Enzyme face polish
Step 3: Enzyme face polish
Yadira is a big advocate for protecting the skin barrier, and minimising the frequency of exfoliation while pregnant. When she does exfoliate she often uses the , 1-2 times a week. This gentle exfoliant uses active enzymes to lift away dead skin cells. Simply leave it on for one minute and then rinse off.
Step 4: Cosmeceutical mist
Step 4: Cosmeceutical mist
For Yadira, a mist is non-negotiable as it helps the serums applied next sink into the face with greater efficiency. She mists her face with the , which boosts hydration and helps to prevent moisture loss. You can use this to set your makeup too!
Step 5: All-in-one super serum
Step 5: All-in-one super serum
Using a serum containing Niacinamide will be your skin’s saviour. Yadira uses the to regulate oil production, fade pigmentation, ageing and minimise redness and blotchiness. You can massage a pe- sized amount of this gel formula into the skin nightly.
Step 6: Daily moisturizer
Step 6: Daily moisturizer
As her daily moisturiser Yadira turns to the . This makeup artist staple has a light, creamy formula that layers perfectly under makeup. This super gentle formula leaves skin glowy, never greasy. Massage a small amount of this moisturiser into the skin day and night, or swap it out for a mask.
Step 7: Mask option
Step 7: Mask option
Sometimes, Yadira swaps out her moisturiser for the . You can leave this mask on for 10 minutes, or keep it on overnight. It moisturises, firms and helps to restore the skin’s barrier.
We always recommend that you consult with your doctor or healthcare professional if you are unsure about any products or ingredients
Yadira’s Pregnancy-Safe Skin Tips:
- Always use a face mist before applying your serums, to help them sink in.
- Use a Vitamin C in the morning to brighten your skin.
- Pair your Niacinamide with a Hyaluronic acid if you are suffering from dryness or dehydration.
This routine was transcribed by India Williams
Answering Your Questions About Pregnancy and Hair Loss
If you start to notice your hair thinning during pregnancy, you might be wondering - can pregnancy cause hair loss?
What Skincare and Beauty Products Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?
You likely know to avoid alcohol and seafood when expecting. But it’s also important to adapt your beauty routine to omit harmful chemicals for both mother and baby...
