By: Nicki Reid, Bilingual BA
Today, skin care routines can comprise of 7 steps and include as many steps as you want it to be; but when you’re pregnant - who has time for that?! Some folks might, but if you’re anything like me who desired to simplify my life where I could and in as many areas of my life as possible (skincare being one of them), then keep reading. While I was pregnant, my skincare routine consisted of two steps: I used a facial cleanser and a moisturizer - that was it. If you’re pregnant and wondering what you can use on your skin, stay tuned because in this blog I will be sharing some natural skincare products for you to check out.
Facial Cleansers
I remember at different phases of my pregnancy, I was more sensitive to certain scents than others. With that being said, I wanted products that had minimal to no scents. Depending on where you are on your pregnancy journey, you may be able to relate. I used (the liquid) black soap on my face. One brand that I used (and still do if I’m being honest) is Mama’s Life Products. Check out their facial care line here. Not only are they local (yes, they’re Canadian - located in Scarborough) they are Black owned. You can purchase their items directly from their website or from your local health food store. For specific locations, check here.
Attitude is also a Canadian company, while not Black owned; they do have a Pregnancy Foaming Face Cleanser. Their products are dermatologically tested and vegan. You can purchase online from their website or anywhere their products are sold. The locations can be found here.
Toners
Thayers Witch Hazel Toner Original Alcohol Free is also vegan, gluten free, and paraben free. The key ingredients are witch hazel and aloe vera. You can opt for the original, unscented, or any of the other scents that you desire. This toner is available from Amazon, Well.ca, or at your local health food store.
I enjoyed using Heritage Products Rosewater Facial Toner that I purchased from Healthy Planet; but it is also available at Well.ca, Amazon, and Walmart.
Moisturizers
Now when it came to moisturizing my face, I kept it as natural as possible; I used olive oil. More specifically, Extra Virgin Olive Oil as that is one of the oils we use in our home. Another oil that you can use is Jojoba oil because it is the closest to the natural oils our bodies produce.
Shea butter is an alternative to consider. Although I found it was too rich for my skin, I was only able to use it at some points during the colder and drier fall and winter seasons. So depending on the season and your hormones, it may (or may not) be something you add to your pregnancy facial care routine. My go-to brand for shea butter is Mama’s Life Products. Check out their Raw Unscented Shea Butter (that is a part of their facial care line).
As a quick mention, to moisturize my lips, I used whatever I applied to my face; so that was either EVOO or shea butter. Also look into Burt’s Bees Lip Balm and / or Dr. Bronner’s Organic Lip Balm available at your local health food store, online from Amazon or Well.ca.
Finally, I know you have a lot on your plate during your pregnancy, but if you’re up to it, I encourage you to do your own research to determine which products are best for you during this time. As a starting point, check out this article from the Baby Centre that has been medically reviewed by a medical doctor, more specifically, an OBGYN on Safe skin care during pregnancy. Additionally, seek advice from the professionals. Consult with your family doctor and / or OBGYN, dermatologist and / or naturopathic doctor for further product recommendations based on your unique needs during your pregnancy.
Take deep care, stay moisturized and be well, mama.
Nicki Reid, Bilingual BA
Certified Transformational Coach | Certified Essential Oil Specialist |
Certified ARōMATOUCH Practitioner | 200 YTT , Wholesome Mind Health Coaching