Belaray Dermatology – Jericho, Plainview, Long Island, NY

Pregnancy can be one of the most exciting times, but it can be confusing too.  Here are our tips on how to know how to “be good to your skin” during pregnancy

Here is a list of products that you will want to consider stopping

1. Stop using retinoids (like Retin-A, Tazorac, or Differin, for example) and over-the-counter products with retinol.
2. Salicylic acid is also not suitable for pregnant women, but can be safely substituted with lactic or glycolic acid, which work similarly.
3. Discuss all herbal supplements with your physician.  “Natural” does not always mean “harmless.” 

Here are some ideas to help you with the changes you may experience during your pregnancy:

1. Acne is common during pregnancy, and may last for several months after pregnancy while the hormones settle.  Though you may choose to avoid products that contain retinoids or sal-acid, there are plenty of other acne fighting medications that are safe during pregnancy.  Do not give up!  Speak with your doctor.
2. Melasma, or “the mask of pregnancy,” is very common.  Getting darkened patches of the forehead and cheeks can be distressing, but there are many treatment options.  The most important is to use sunscreen religiously.  Topical skin lighteners are also beneficial, and one that you might like to try is Olay Definity.  If that does not help, there are prescription grade skin lighteners that you can use after you deliver.
3. Stretch marks are difficult to treat, and can be challenging to avoid.  However, one helpful thing to do is to moisturize several times a day with cocoa butter, shea butter, or almond/safflower oil.
4. Brittle nails during pregnancy is often seen, and may be due to a biotin deficiency.  Many  prenatal multivitamins contain biotin, and you should discuss taking these supplements with your doctor.  The daily U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 400 micrograms for adults, 500 micrograms for breastfeeding adult women, and 600 micrograms per day for pregnant adult women.
5. When choosing a sunscreen, we recommend using one with only physical blockers like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.  An example is Blue Lizard, which you can find in gallon containers in our on-line store.