Pregnant girlies...this one's for you x

During pregnancy, along with the obvious changes that your body goes through there may be some that you weren’t expecting such as problem skin – those with previously oily skin may notice dry patches and those with dry skin may find themselves fighting breakouts!  If this is the case it may be worth altering your skincare regime until things settle down by following some easy to follow tips to help you through.

If you have or develop oily skin try to use a gel cleanser like Simple Oil Balancing Exfoliating Cleanser applied to damp skin followed by a light oil-free moisturizing lotion. For dry skin try massaging a cream cleanser such as No7 Soft & Soothed Cleanser onto damp skin and removing with damp cotton wool pads and then apply a rich creamy moisturiser with high oil content.

You may also find that you develop a combination of an oily t-zone (forehead, nose and chin area) with dry patches around your cheeks and eyes.  If this happens, don’t despair!  Simply look for products for a combination skin tone which when applied alter to the needs of your skin, try the Simple range.

The good news is that prior skin conditions such as eczema and acne have been known to improve during pregnancy. I had quite severe eczema prior to having my second child but it cleared up considerably whilst I was pregnant and I rarely have any problems now!

There are certain ingredients that can be found in cosmetics and skin care which may have adverse effects in pregnancy, the most notable are listed below but you should speak to your midwife for a full list.

·         Retinoids – Often found in anti-aging products. Also known as Retin A, Retinol, Retinyl.

·         Salicylic Acid – found in acne treatments and exfoliates.  Also known as BHA, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Willow bark.

·         Fragrance/Phthalates – found in many cosmetic/skin products.  Always opt for a fragrance free version

 

Make-up can make us look and feel better but during pregnancy your routine should be kept simple, particularly during the 1^st/3^rd trimester when tiredness is likely to be an issue.

To start always ensure you cleanse and moisturise your face thoroughly to remove all traces of oil and dirt, this gives you a clean slate on which to work and makes the finished look more polished and it will also last longer!

For a fuss free look firstly apply a yellow based concealer to cover any dark circles under the eyes, gently pat the concealer into place using your ring finger – this also has a temporary tightening effect as extra blood is brought to the surface and so blurring fines lines!

Dark spots can be a problem during pregnancy but they can be covered with a yellow/orange based corrector cream, Apply with a concealer brush and then blend until no visible lines can be seen.

Tinted moisturiser and BB creams are ideal multi-tasking products; they have a lighter feel than foundation and are easy to blend when you’re in a rush. If you prefer fuller coverage try a mineral foundation, always a good option in pregnancy when skin can react unexpectedly as they don’t contain ingredients known to irritate the skin.

Try to choose non-comodogenic products to avoid clogging your pores and causing breakouts!

Blusher is a must for brightening tired looking skin.  Try applying a soft pink/coral shade on the outer edge of your cheek bones and flicking it up at the temples for a natural flush of colour.  If you apply to much colour, don’t worry, simply sweep a large brush loaded with translucent powder over the area and then brush of the excess.

Keep eyes natural with a wash of taupe over the eyelid and finish with a coat of lengthening mascara onto your upper lashes.  For a wide awake look try running nude coloured eyeliner along your bottom inner lash line.

Lip gloss is great for a natural, quick and largely mistake proof application!  Simply apply straight from the tube or with your finger to complete your look!