Pregnant women should not only pay attention to their diet but also be cautious about the cosmetics they use to avoid harmful effects on the fetus. Below are cosmetic ingredients that pregnant women should avoid during pregnancy.
1. Benzoyl Peroxide is a cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid
During pregnancy, hormonal changes of the woman can lead to acne. Common over-the-counter acne products often contain Benzoyl Peroxide. However, pregnant women should avoid using products with this ingredient.
The reasons why Benzoyl Peroxide is a cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid stems from its potential risk of causing fetal deformities, especially during the first trimester.
2. Fragrance Ingredients is a cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid
Perfume is a prime example of a cosmetic with fragrance, often made from various harmful chemicals such as: Paraben, benzene derivatives, and aldehydes. Even when used for a short period, a small amount of perfume can cause irritation and redness on the skin it contacts. To ensure the safety of the fetus, pregnant women should avoid using perfumes.
3. A cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid is BPA
BPA is a plasticizer used as a base in cosmetics formulated as creams. It can enter the body even when applied topically. The danger of BPA lies in its ability to disrupt the endocrine system, increasing the risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer, infertility, heart disease, and diabetes.
For the fetus, exposure to BPA can lead to issues with physical development and behavioral disorders.
4. Hydroquinone is one of the cosmetic ingredients that pregnant women should avoid
Hydroquinone works by blocking processes that lead to skin discoloration. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Hydroquinone may pose a risk to the fetus. Therefore, it is one of the cosmetic ingredients pregnant women should avoid. If use is necessary, it is recommended to consult a doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.
5. A cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid is Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde has been linked to cancer and other neurological issues. It is commonly found in hair straightening products and nail polishes. As a result, pregnant women should avoid hair treatments and nail polishes during pregnancy.
6. Parabens is a cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid
Parabens are preservatives added to cosmetics, ranging from foundation to hair gels. Research has shown that Parabens increase the risk of breast cancer and can affect reproductive functions.
7. A cosmetic ingredient pregnant women should avoid is Phthalates
One of the cosmetic ingredients that pregnant women should avoid is Phthalates are chemicals used to stabilize formulas but can cause serious issues with the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive function. Pregnant women should avoid products containing Phthalates.
8. A cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid is Retinoids
Retinoids are found in acne medications and anti-aging treatments. Numerous studies have shown that using retinoids increases the risk of birth defects. Therefore, this chemical is commonly advised against during pregnancy.
9. Oral Salicylic Acid is a cosmetic ingredient pregnant women should avoid
Salicylic acid is safe for topical use during pregnancy, but oral consumption is different. Taking oral salicylic acid in the third trimester can increase the risk of intracranial bleeding in the fetus.
10. A cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid is Thioglycolic Acid
Thioglycolic acid is used in hair removal creams and may be labeled as Acetyl mercaptan, Mercaptoacetate, Mercaptoacetic acid, or Thiovanic acid. While no studies have been conducted on its effects on the fetus, this ingredient is limited in concentration in cosmetic products. Thus, pregnant women should avoid using products containing Thioglycolic acid.
11. Chemical Sunscreen is a cosmetic ingredient pregnant women should avoid
Ingredients like Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Menthyl anthranilate, and Oxtocrylene found in chemical sunscreens should be avoided by pregnant women. Instead, they can use physical sunscreens containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide.
12. Botulinum Toxin is a cosmetic ingredient should not be used for pregnant women
Botulinum toxin works by paralyzing the muscles around wrinkles to help rejuvenate and firm the skin. However, it can harm the developing fetus, especially during the first trimester.
13. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a cosmetic ingredient pregnant women should avoid
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is commonly found in soaps and shampoos as a foaming agent. At high concentrations, it can irritate the skin and is difficult for the body to break down. Prolonged exposure to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate can cause issues with the nervous system, liver, and kidneys. If accidentally ingested, it can lead to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Therefore, this is one of the cosmetic ingredients pregnant women should avoid.
14. Diazolidinyl Urea is a cosmetic ingredient should not be used for pregnant women
Diazolidinyl Urea is often found in mascaras. It can release formaldehyde, which can be harmful to the fetus, making it a cosmetic ingredient pregnant women should avoid.
15. A cosmetic ingredient that pregnant women should avoid is Stearic Acid
Stearic acid is a natural fatty acid found in many foods, so it is generally safe to consume.
However, in beauty products, it is used to mix water and oil and to cleanse dirt. For pregnant women, stearic acid can enter the bloodstream and the fetus, potentially causing metabolic disturbances in the developing baby.
In conclusion, it is essential to remember which cosmetic ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult with their doctor about any products they are considering using during pregnancy to ensure the safety of their baby.
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References: Fda.gov, Verywellfamily.com, Parents.com, Byrdie.com, Womenscare.com, Munkmd.com
