pregnancy product swap: skin lightener
before pregnancy, you might have had an entire counter covered in serums and masks and other beauty products. now, you’re not sure what’s safe to use or not use. this post breaks down one pregnancy beauty swap: skin lighteners.
hydroquinone is a pigment reducer, made to target dark spots. unfortunately, one side effect of pregnancy is melasma, or dark spots, so many birthing parents look for a product to fix it and turn to hydroquinone.
why is it harmful?
it is considered a carcinogen, or a product that can cause cancer.
it has a very high absorption rate. one study showed that hydroquinone could be found in urine a few minutes after being applied.
what should you use instead?
vitamin C serum. vitamin c is a natural skin brightener with antioxidants and anti-aging properties.
lactic acid is another product that can reduce lines and blemishes. (note: this isn’t for sensitive skin.)
*because it is considered unethical to research potentially harmful chemicals on pregnant women and unborn babies, there aren’t many studies proving products are without a doubt harmful; however, researchers draw conclusions and err on the side of caution.
want to chat more about preparing for pregnancy or postpartum? DM me on Instagram!
Hi there! I’m Gigi and am a postpartum doula in Orange County + beyond. I have three kiddos (including twins) and a high-school sweetheart-turned-husband. I’ve always been a teacher but realized I was meant to teach parents and help them through the fourth trimester. I love forcing my friends and family to listen to me talk about zero waste, reading YA novels, and watching terrible reality shows.
Want to chat (especially about Sarah J. Maas novels or DIY cleaning products or babies?) Connect with me through e-mail or on Instagram!
