What makes sunscreen protected for pregnancy?
“Everyone should consider a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays and is SPF 30 or higher and water-resistant,” says Masterson. “Most significantly, one that you’re going to wear and is straightforward and convenient to reapply. It doesn’t matter how good it’s in the event you don’t put it on and reapply as needed. If you find yourself pregnant, your skin could also be barely more sun-sensitive, and you usually need to be concerned concerning the safety of the chemicals in products that you simply placed on your skin and the way they could affect your baby’s health.”
What ingredients do you have to search for in pregnancy-safe sunscreen?
“Sunscreens which are mineral-based, like zinc oxide and/or titanium oxide, are minimally absorbed and subsequently are safer by acting as a physical barrier,” says Masterson. “The FDA has established them as generally protected. Pregnant skin could be more sensitive to chemicals, so a hypoallergenic sunscreen is beneficial.”
Dr. Murad recommends searching for vitamin C, “an excellent ingredient for helping to brighten skin and boost collagen.” He adds: “It might help counteract any discoloration that may occur because of this of sun exposure and increased risk of hyperpigmentation while pregnant. Any mineral SPF can be great for expecting moms. Typically, products containing azelaic acid, lactic acid, and hyaluronic acid are great for people who find themselves pregnant, too.”
What are ingredients one should avoid?
“Avoid oxybenzone and PABA and trolamine salicylate, which is dangerous and illegal in sunscreen sold within the U.S.,” says Masterson.
“The FDA has created a labeling system called the Drug Facts label to assist clearly communicate actives and inactive ingredients within the product,” adds Murad. “Nonetheless, before using latest products while pregnant, it’s vital to ascertain along with your doctor to find out what is going to work best for you. Overall, I’d recommend avoiding isotretinoin, hydroquinone, doxycycline, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide.”
Is sunscreen more vital while pregnant?
In response to Masterson, “While pregnant, the skin could be more vulnerable to hyperpigmentation, discolorations, and melasma as a consequence of pregnancy hormones.” She adds: “An additional layer of sun protection will help prevent and minimize this occurrence. It could take some time postpartum for these hormones to return to normal, so it continues to stay vital.”
What about using sunscreen postpartum and while breastfeeding?
“Likelihood is you’ll be able to proceed to make use of the sunscreen that you simply used while pregnant, but you might even have more options so, again, seek the advice of your physician,” cautions Murad.
