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By Entela Celiku, Chemist PHD specialised in Natural Products
As a chemist and a mom who has experienced two pregnancies, I truly understand the sacrifices that come with this journey—from giving up sushi (yes, one of my favorite treats!) to spending endless hours scrutinizing every cosmetic label. I still remember the shock I felt when I read a landmark study that revealed harmful chemicals, including heavy metals, were present in newborns’ umbilical cord blood. That discovery was a wake-up call, proving that even the tiniest exposures can affect our little ones before they’re born. It pushed me to meticulously analyze every product I used in search of the safest options available.
Pregnancy is a time of both wonder and change. The surge of hormones like estrogen and progesterone not only prepares your body for new life but also transforms your skin’s behavior. Perhaps you’ve noticed that your once resilient skin now reacts more quickly—resulting in increased redness, irritation, or even mild allergic responses from products that used to feel soothing. Many women experience hyperpigmentation or melasma—dark patches appearing on the face or along the belly as pigment production rises. As your body grows, your skin stretches, sometimes causing small tears known as stretch marks, while increased oil production may trigger unexpected breakouts, spider veins, or a dark linea nigra.
When it comes to cosmetics, certain ingredients that work well under normal circumstances can pose significant risks during pregnancy. For example, retinoids (like retinol and tretinoin) are well-loved for their anti-aging and acne-fighting benefits; however, these vitamin A derivatives have been linked to developmental issues in babies. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) such as salicylic acid are effective at unclogging pores, but even in low concentrations, they can irritate the sensitive, hormone-affected skin of expectant moms. Harsh exfoliants—while useful for maintaining a smooth complexion—can over-irritate delicate skin if too aggressive, and hydroquinone, often used to lighten dark spots, is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to its potential health risks.
But that’s not all. Synthetic fragrances and complex additives—even in products marketed as “natural” or “gentle”—might hide a cocktail of chemicals that can trigger irritation. For instance, phthalates, commonly found in nail polish and fragrances, act as hormone disruptors and have been linked to adverse effects on reproductive development. These “plasticizers” make products softer and more pliable but can penetrate the skin easily, accumulating in our bodies over time. Parabens mimic estrogen in the body, potentially upsetting your hormonal balance, and PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances)—persistent chemicals used to extend product longevity—have even been detected in umbilical cord blood and breast milk, as reported by the EPA. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic may also be present in some pigments and makeup products; these toxins can build up over time and may adversely affect your baby’s development.
Adding to the urgency of these concerns, research from UC San Francisco emphasizes that pregnant women in the U.S. are exposed to many harmful industrial chemicals linked to premature birth, low birth weight, and birth defects. The study even suggests that pollutants can accumulate in the fetal environment at levels higher than in the mother—potentially having significant consequences for the developing baby.
I know this might sound overwhelming, but understanding these risks is the first step toward protecting yourself and your baby. The key is to choose products that are both gentle and safe during this critical time. By arming yourself with knowledge and carefully reviewing product ingredients, you can make choices that support your skin’s health and your baby’s development.
Remember, your pregnancy journey is unique and ever-evolving, it’s also a time to embrace change and nurture your natural glow. Every informed choice you make is a step toward a healthier, happier future for both you and your little one. Kungul is here to help you along this journey, providing the tools and insights you need to make safe, confident decisions about the cosmetics you use. Stay confident, stay informed, and celebrate this beautiful transformation.
Be sure to check back on our blog for more comprehensive guidelines on pregnancy, including expert insights on nutrition and wellness to help you nurture both your body and your baby.
