WHAT TO EXPECT AND HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SKIN

Pregnancy brings big hormonal shifts that can have a major impact on your skin. While some lucky moms-to-be experience a radiant glow, others may face frustrating skin challenges. Understanding these changes and how to manage them can help you feel more confident and comfortable in your skin.

Why Skin Care Matters During Pregnancy

Hormonal fluctuations can cause new skin conditions or worsen existing ones. Since clinical trials on pregnant individuals are considered unethical, we rely heavily on limited and indirect evidence. This makes it tricky to define a universal “pregnancy-safe” skincare standard.

The skin isn’t the body’s primary toxicological pathway, and the placental barrier does provide some protection. However, the safest approach follows the precautionary principle: when in doubt, avoid ingredients that may pose risks. 

Common Skin Changes During Pregnancy

During pregnancy there are marked changes in sex hormones, the immune system, and the cardiovascular system, and this can lead to changes in the skin.

• Melasma/Chloasma/Linea Nigra -"Pregnancy Mask"
• Redness of the heel of the palm, and occasionally the fingers
• Acne and breakouts
• Pregnancy glow
• Increased sensitivity and dryness
• Spider veins and varicose veins
• Eczema and psoriasis flare-ups
• Hormonal rashes
• Darkening in specific areas (neck, underarms, groin)
• Redness and rosacea-like symptoms
• Changes in hair and nail growth (faster, thicker, or brittle)
• Body odor changes
• Itchy skin
• Sweating

Hormonal Effects on the Skin

Most women have changes in their skin, hair, and nails during pregnancy. Most of these are normal and go away after pregnancy.

• Estrogen and Progesterone – Increase pigmentation, affect elasticity, and contribute to breakouts.
• Oil Gland Overactivity – May lead to acne and texture changes.
• Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH) – Triggers darkening of the skin, melasma, and linea nigra.
• Cortisol Spikes – May contribute to stretch marks and inflammatory skin conditions.
• Increased Blood Volume – Can cause spider veins and rosacea flares.
• Collagen and Elastin Shifts – Affect skin tightness and stretch mark formation. 

Ingredients to Avoid:

While "natural" may sound safe, that’s not always the case. Plants contain potent compounds that can penetrate the skin and impact fetal development.

• Retinoids – Linked to birth defects.
• Hydroquinone – Absorbs quickly and carries potential risks.
• CBD – May disrupt hormones and fetal development.
• Chemical Sunscreens (e.g., oxybenzone, avobenzone) – Linked to hormone disruption. Safer options include mineral sunscreens like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide.
• Essential Oils (certain types) – Some can penetrate the skin and pose risks.
• Salicylates (>2%) – Risk of fetal toxicity.
• Toluene – Found in nail polish and hair dye; linked to neurotoxic effect.
• Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives - Possible carcinogenic effects. 
• MITs – May cause skin irritation.
• PFAS - Linked to genotoxicity. 

Problem Essential Oil Compounds (not all essential oils are doomed):

• Thujone
• Methyl Salicylate
• Safrole
• Camphor
• Estragole
• Phenols
• Thymoquinone
• Myrcene

Safer Skincare Choices During Pregnancy

Women should safely manage common skin concerns like acne, skin dryness, pigmentation, stretchmarks and other benign conditions that arise during pregnancy, given their understandable desire to look their best during this special time.

For hydration and barrier support:

• Hyaluronic Acid – Deep hydration and moisture retention.
• Ceramides – Strengthen the skin barrier.
• Glycerin – Draws moisture into the skin.
• Squalane – Lightweight and hydrating.
• Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5) – Soothes and repairs.

For brightening and hyperpigmentation:

• Vitamin C – Fades dark spots and boosts radiance.
• Niacinamide – Calms redness and evens skin tone.
• Licorice Root Extract – Naturally brightens and reduces redness.
• Azelaic Acid (low %) – Calms inflammation and fades pigmentation.
• Tranexamic Acid (low %) – Helps fade epidermal pigmentation.

For acne and scarring:

• Glycolic Acid – Gently exfoliates for smoother skin.
• Lactic Acid – Improves texture and hydrates.
• Sulfur – Reduces bacteria and oil production.
• Zinc PCA – Anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating.

For stretch marks and elasticity:

• Centella Asiatica (Cica) – Supports collagen production.
• Rosehip Oil – Enhances skin regeneration.
• Shea Butter – Deeply nourishes and promotes elasticity.
• Peptides – Support skin firmness.
• Vitamin E – Supports skin resilience.

Our Favorite Products to Use During Pregnancy

Plant Stem Cell Serum - Rich in peptides, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid, this serum hydrates deeply, improves elasticity, and supports collagen production for smoother skin texture. It is ideal for addressing fine lines and uneven skin tone.

Meta C Serum - A blend of three types of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate), this serum brightens the skin, fades pigmentation, and protects against environmental damage. 

Hyaluronic Acid Serum provides deep hydration and soothes sensitive skin with its multi-dimensional hyaluronic acid formula, making it ideal for addressing pregnancy-related dryness and irritation. 

Daily Moisturizer - Lightweight and non-greasy, this moisturizer hydrates the skin with squalane and hyaluronic acid while calming irritation with Norwegian spruce extract. It improves elasticity and reduces superficial dehydration lines. This non-comedogenic formula is perfect for acne-prone skin. 

Cream Barrier - This thick, luxurious cream combines humectants (e.g., glycerin) to hydrate the skin and emollients to lock in moisture. It strengthens the skin barrier while relieving dryness and tightness, making it ideal for dehydrated and dry skin during pregnancy. 

Zinc Mask - Rich in zinc PCA, this mask regulates sebum production and calms inflammation, making it effective for managing acne-prone or sensitive skin during pregnancy.

The Onerta Hand + Body Lotion - Deeply nourishing with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and ceramides, this lotion supports the skin barrier while soothing dryness and irritation.

Final Thought: Consult a Professional

Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. The best practice is always to consult your medical professional before starting any new skincare products or treatments. With informed choices and the right care, you can nurture your skin safely throughout your pregnancy journey.