New to Bounty?
Dr. Ginni Mansberg
Pregnancy is incredible. While reproduction of is common to all living beings, the very concept and complexity of it is one of the most astounding natural phenomena. And it is that complexity that means we don’t understand everything about it.
What we do know is that:
These conditions affect about half of pregnant mums and usually resolve themselves within a year of the pregnancy. And then there are stretch marks. They usually recede to fine silvery lines but may be with you for the long haul.
Dr. Ginni Mansberg is a Sydney-based GP, author, and co-founder of Evidence Skincare (ESK).
There is near universal agreement on the recommendation to avoid Vitamin A (used for anti-aging and acne) and Hydroquinone (used for pigmentation) during pregnancy. If you do accidentally use Vitamin A creams when you are pregnant, the risks are VERY low, and the recommendation is made using an abundance of caution. So, don’t fret.
Because so much uncertainty persists, I’d say why take the risk?
Skin needs a little extra TLC during pregnancy.
Keep in mind that your skin may become more sensitive during pregnancy, so you may want to make some changes just to adjust for that…
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – for Acne, Pigmentation/Melasma, Eczema and sensitive skin
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (less then 5 percent concentration) – for Acne and Pigmentation/Melasma
When not appearing on Channel Seven’s Sunrise, you can find Dr. Ginni discussing all things weird and wonderful on her podcast, Things You Can’t Talk About on TV.
Azelaic Acid – for Acne and Pigmentation
4-n-Butylresorcinol (4-n-B) – for Pigmentation
Zinc Oxide Based Sunscreen
Hyaluronic Acid – for Stretch Marks
As our bodies stretch to accommodate a new life our skin sometimes struggles to keep up – resulting in stretch marks. The evidence seems to indicate that early treatment using moisturisers and Hyaluronic Acid may help. There is some evidence for using Vitamin A (which will have to wait until you’re no longer pregnant or breastfeeding) and some cosmetic procedures like laser.
To learn more about a tailored skincare regimen and the ingredients best suited for you, please visit Evidence Skincare (ESK) and complete the free 3-minute quiz.
Now that you’re up to speed with pregnancy-safe skincare, enjoy the journey ahead!