Be sure to use sunscreen, it is the most important product a pregnant or non-pregnant women can use. Sunscreen should be used everyday because the skin is so much more sensitive during this time.
"During pregnancy, it is especially important to religiously use sunscreen and to reapply the sunscreen regularly," says Dr. Susan Weinkle is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of South Florida. She also serves on the board of directors of the American Academy of Dermatology. "With an increase in the circulation of hormones, the risk of melasma goes up. Melasma is where you get increased pigmentation because of circulating hormones stimulating melanin in the skin."
Check the beauty products used to ensure they are suitable during pregnancy because some products are not suitable for the growing baby or for the skin. Many of the products and medications are harmful to fetal development and know to cause birth defects.
"Make sure the cleansers, makeup and moisturizers do not contain exfoliants. These products include salicylic acid, glycolic acid and alpha and beta hydroxyl acids. Read labels, because many popular products contain these chemicals, and they may not be appropriate for skin care during pregnancy especially not the first trimester," says the website blooming body.com.
Avoid using soap during this time; it removes natural oils from the skin so use a moisturizing body wash instead. Moisturizing products maintain essential oils in pregnant skin and promote a healthy glow. Never use hot water to wash the face or body. Hot water dehydrates the skin and leaves it looking dull. After exiting from a hot bath, moisturize the entire body with hydrating cream and lotion. Moisturizing during pregnancy is very important. By moisturizing the skin, it becomes soft and supple and prevents from stretch marks occurring. Drink tons of water, even more so then before. Not only will you help cleanse your system and purge toxins from your body, you will also give your growing body the nutrients it needs.
According to Miriam Stoppard on I Village.com, skin cells are constantly dyeing and forming; make sure to nourish and moisturize the skin even more than normal to keep skin looking healthy. Your skin changes when pregnant, some women find that their skin becomes oilier during pregnancy. Use a facial cleanser and toner that are safe for pregnancy. Do not ignore your feet or ankles either. Your body retains water and causes for your feet and ankles to swell. Soak your feet in Epsom salt and then apply a refreshing foot get with menthol to alleviate some of the pain.
