Pregnancy should be, in my opinion, a time to detox. A time to pick and choose what you put in and on your body very, very wisely. You’re responsible for not just your health, but also your little one’s, and that should be motivation enough to read labels meticulously and search for clean ingredients.
I thought I’d share a few of my favorite skincare products with you guys so you know where to start during pregnancy – some of these I use before and after pregnancy, too!
Leaf Seed Berrywas one of my discoveries during this pregnancy and I swear by their charcoal face wash with tea tree (activated charcoal is highly absorptive, sucking dirt and oil from pores like a powerful sponge, and tea tree essential oil is effective in combating acne), as well as their rose essence exfoliating toner — unlike normal toners, this unique formulation works to clear off dead skin cells that intensify fine dry lines and blocked pores, while using its antimicrobial properties to clear away those pesky blemishes and keep them at bay. I love how refreshed I feel after this combo… and my skin never dries out, which says a lot during pregnancy (with Liam, I had the driest skin and had such a hard time keeping my face moisturized!) Snatch a few of their products while they’re on sale – I promise you’ll fall in love!
I’ve loved MANDALA ORGANIC since my pregnancy with Liam. Their line is just so diverse and everything smells so delicious. My favorites are their vegan lip balms (even my mom became a huge fan!) and bergamot night cream (you won’t find a more hydrating, soothing night cream with such clean ingredients!) As if their quality products weren’t enough, I love that a portion of every sale is donated to environmental and social justice non-profit organizations.
A safe, hydrating belly balm is essential during pregnancy to avoid stretch marks, and I’m so glad I recently discovered Best Nest Wellness! Formulated by an MIT physician using the latest research into women’s health and wellness, all of their products are made from natural and organic foods to ensure effectiveness. You can’t go wrong with 100% organic ingredients and quality essential oils.
I’ve been usingThe Little Herbal products for years! From their organic herbal teas (I swore by their Mama’s Makin’ Milk tea blend when I was nursing Liam) to their absolutely amazing skincare products, I cannot recommend this brand more. During and after my first pregnancy, I was so glad to have found their Mama’s Belly Butter, Nipple Saver Salve, and “Repair Down There” spray. Such a great line for Mamas, but for babies too – I still use their Magic Diaper Cream and Be Well Vapor Rub. You have to check all of these goodies out!
Favorite natural deodorant… hands down! I’ve tried them all: Tom’s, Crystal, Jason, Earth Science, Weleda, Alba… and none of them work effectively throughout the day. Native is aluminum and paraben-free, with an ingredient list you can understand. And the vanilla/coconut scent is delicious!
The Australian-born brand Milk & Co stems from a yearning to make quality skincare products as easy and accessible as possible. Their women’s face & body line is 95% naturally derived and covers a wide range of products from sunscreens and body lotions to scrubs and face wash.
Their goji fruit extract, ylang ylang oil, and hibiscus flower extract face wash is my absolute go-to during pregnancy, and so is their “Invigorate Me” revitalizing body lotion. I love their baby line as well, along with their amazing room sprays (we swear by the Stinky Winky spray!)
For months, the two sisters behind Moody Sisters toiled over their stoves and sinks perfecting products that would help their moody skin. As they developed and tested their lotions, toners and deodorants, they suddenly realized that not only did they enjoy these products, but others would too. They were delighted to realize that since the products were completely chemical and paraben-free, they were also safe for their young daughters. The products range from sensitive skin cleansers and moisturizers to blemish and oil control products, from luxurious lip balms to aluminum-free deodorants and scrubs.
My absolute favorite is their Lightweight Aloe Face Moisturizer, a light moisturizing cream that is perfect for daily use without making you feel oily throughout the day. The scent is super refreshing and the aloe soothes my skin like no other product I own. A must have!
After my pregnancy with Liam, I struggled with some really stubborn cystic acne breakouts. I suspect it had something to do with stopping birth control pills (my hormones went a little crazy!) and I was a little nervous about not being able to use a salicylic acid face wash during pregnancy to keep the breakouts at bay. I was thrilled to find the brand Mumsie, formulated especially for moms concerned about hormonal acne during and after pregnancy. It’s a very light formula, but two pumps is enough to cleanse thoroughly.
So there you go, Mamas – I hope these suggestions help you over the course of your pregnancies. Do not hesitate to reach out with questions in the comments!
Mama Naturelle 