Pregnancy can pose unique challenges to skin: dryness, acne, sensitivity and dreaded stretch marks. Not to mention you’re a hormonal wreck and likely freaking out about every little thing you come into contact with (sprouts!, kitty litter! nail polish! raw meat!) and how it could possibly harm your unborn child. But don’t fret, future mamas! Here are my favorite beauty products for pregnancy that are totally safe for moms-to-be and will make you glow during pregnancy, post-partum and beyond.
A facial cleanser and a moisturizer to help heal and hydrate skin. The brand I trust implicitly with my pregnant and non-pregnant face is Dr. Hauschka. Established over 40 years ago, this German company is based on holistic principles and their products aim to heal your skin by harnessing its own “process of self renewal.” Their products are completely natural, contain no yucky chemicals, smell absolutely amazing and are soothing and deeply hydrating–the perfect recipe for hormonal skin. My top picks from their line are the Cleansing Milk, (a gentle milk cleanser for dry skin or makeup removal), Cleansing Cream, (a mild, daily exfoliating cleanser), Moisturizing Day Cream (a light, hydrating moisture lotion for normal to dry skin) and Normalizing Day Oil (a face oil for an oilier skin type).
A body oil to prevent stretch marks. For the body, another Dr. Hauschka must-have is Blackthorn Body Oil, a warming body oil that helps lessen the appearance of stretch marks. I used this my entire pregnancy and still use it now that my son is two. And it smells divine to boot! Want to try something different? Another of my favorite body oils for pregnancy is Mother’s Special Blend. What initially attracted me to this product is the totally retro, groovy seventies-style pregnant lady silhouette on the bottle. But after using it, I really liked what was inside! It’s hydrating, totally natural and made my dry and sore skin smooth, soft and itch-free.
A bust and neck firmer. Not to be the bearer of bad news, but droopy boobs are gonna happen post-baby. Skin stretches, slackens and shows the general wear and tear of hormonal fluctuations. But there is hope in Mamma Mio’s Boob Tube! It smooths, soothes, and firms neck and décolleté areas so you can once again confidently wear low-cut tees. You can use it both during and after pregnancy.
A multi-purpose skin balm. Another great product from Mamma Mio is Omega Wonder-Full Rescue Balm. I can’t stand dry hands or cuticles and love a multipurpose product. This fits the bill. It can be used on any dryness on your body, including cuticles, lips, hands, feet and elbows. I also love that you can easily toss it in your purse or diaper bag for anytime use.
Amity Spiegel is a Dr. Hauschka-certified esthetician and performs the Dr. Hauschka Classic Treatment and facials at Soho Sanctuary, a spa and fitness studio for women. Soho Sanctuary has a variety of treatments for moms-to-be, including massage and facials.
