Fragrance-free sun care for pregnancy and nursing
Skin During Pregnancy
Biologically speaking, your blood flow increases by almost 50% during pregnancy, which for some can be experienced as the 'pregnancy glow' — that radiant skin that appears more full and well-nourished. At the same time, estrogen and progesterone levels rise in the body, which can be an advantage for those with dry skin, as the increased sebum and oil in the skin restore balance. However, for those with combination skin, it may result in blemishes galore. The skin can become more sensitive, and products you once loved may suddenly work against you and your skin.
Additionally, nearly half of all pregnant women experience pigment changes in their faces due to increased melanin production. Pregnancy is truly a whirlwind for the body and hormones, and it's essential to understand that no two pregnancies are the same.
Tips for Your Pregnant Skin
1.
One of the best things you can do to achieve balanced skin is to maintain a gentle cleansing routine that doesn't strip the skin of its natural oils. The products should be mild yet effective, and even though you're likely exhausted, it's a good idea to cleanse and moisturize your skin both morning and night, if you can manage it.
2.
Use sunscreen with a high SPF to prevent facial pigmentation. However, remember that pigment changes are often hormonal and often unavoidable, but you can take precautions by protecting your skin with SPF. For many, the brown spots will fade on their own after pregnancy.
3.
If your skin is completely out of balance and reacts strongly to almost anything, it's a good idea to take a step back and simplify your skincare routine as much as possible. A mild cleansing milk and a soothing cream with few active ingredients are often the way to go.
4.
If your skin starts breaking out with hormonal acne, it may be a sign that your skin needs both moisture and oil. If you use harsh acne products and drying formulas, your skin may often respond with even more sebum production. Try spot treatment where you have a problem and use a soothing cleanser that's effective without drying out your skin.
Which products do you recommend for pregnancy?
Camilla Schelderup is Rudolph Care's skincare expert. Besides being a mother of three boys, she knows what works for the skin and which products take gentle care of your skin while you're busy creating a little human being.
"A versatile product that's indispensable for expectant and new mothers. It's fragrance-free and can be used in any situation. On sore nipples when breastfeeding—and you don't even need to rinse it off. Use it on dry hands, lips, your baby's skin, and diaper area—everywhere!"
"Take a little extra time to moisturize your body—it releases the happiness hormone oxytocin—and preferably with Body Oil, which easily penetrates the skin without feeling greasy. It truly benefits the skin with its five cold-pressed oils, including jojoba and açai."
"You're carrying extra weight, so your feet might need some love. Make a foot bath and use Exfoliating Soap, which not only scrubs your feet clean but also contains mint to cool tired feet. Follow up with Aftersun Soothing Sorbet, which you've kept in the fridge. It provides extra cooling to your feet—even if the sun hasn't been shining on them."
Açai Facial Oil and Firming Eye Mask
"If you can and decide to breastfeed, your skin enters a very dry phase in its life. Here, Açai Facial Oil is the savior — an instant glow! You're also entering the most tired period of your life, and that's where Firming Eye Mask becomes your friend. It boosts microcirculation and adds moisture and fullness to the dark circles under your eyes."