When you are pregnant your body goes through a lot of changes. From surging hormones to stretching skin, your skin takes on a lot during pregnancy so it is the perfect time to indulge in some self-care. 

You may have heard of the pregnancy glow, however, many women experience the opposite while they are pregnant with their skin taking on a whole new persona. Understandably, there will be some change to the appearance of your skin during pregnancy as not only do you have to deal with the raging hormone fluctuations, but you are also carrying more blood and fluid in your body. 

Whether you have a pregnancy glow or not, taking care of your skin is important while you are pregnant, however, it can be difficult to know what your skin needs. This is why we have researched the best skincare products on the market to support your skin during pregnancy. 

From the best sun creams to vitamin-rich moisturisers, here is our top ten list of the best skincare products to use that are safe for you throughout your pregnancy.

SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic

The SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is a gentle serum that is excellent at protecting the skin and helps to reduce the appearance of ageing such as fine lines and sun damage.

It has a brightening formula that can reduce dark spots and make your skin look more radiant. 

The serum is safe to use during pregnancy and does not contain retinol, it is also easy to incorporate into your daily skincare routine before moisturiser to give a boost of hydration throughout the day.

CeraVe Daily Moisturising Lotion

With all the big changes happening in your body, your skin can get sensitive and dry, which is why you should find a good daily moisturiser.

The CeraVe Daily Moisturising Lotion is a great high-street-priced moisturiser that is rich in ceramides and free of parabens, phthalates, and other common irritants, making it ideal for pregnant skin. It is also fragrance-free and hydrating thanks to hyaluronic acid and is suitable for all skin types and can be used all over the body and face. 

Neal’s Yard Remedies Mothers Bath Oil 

There is nothing better than a warm bath to help alleviate pregnancy aches and pains, however, baths can sometimes be drying, which is why this bath oil is great.

Designed specifically for mums to use both during and after pregnancy, this bath oil is nourishing and includes organic bergamot and ylang-ylang essential oils.

A small spoonful is enough, added under running water to create a relaxing bath time experience. 

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch The Original

A staple in any make-up bag is a blemish patch, and the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch is one of the best on the market. This hydrocolloid spot patch will help clear blemishes by drawing water and flattening the area.

So if you are experiencing hormonal breakouts during your pregnancy, these are great to keep on hand.

As your pimples are covered by the patch they have the time to heal and you can even apply make-up on top to help disguise the area. 

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream 

If you are looking for a two-in-one product the IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream is a hardworking skincare item.

Working a double shift as a tinted CC cream to even skin tone, it also includes SPF 50 so it protects your skin from harmful UV and UVA rays. 

IT Cosmetics was created with the collaboration of dermatologists and plastic surgeons, so the formula is safe for your skin and also includes hydrating hyaluronic acid to keep your skin looking plump. 

Bio-Oil Skincare Oil

Bio-Oil has been a long-standing pregnancy favourite as a skin oil that keeps your skin supple and helps to reduce stretch marks from forming.

The formulation helps with skin elasticity, which is vital during pregnancy as your skin is stretched to the max and can be used all over your body.

Applying Bio-Oil on top of your moisturiser at night can help to retain hydration and rubbing it on your bump can give your skin a helping hand to stretch as your baby grows.

ESPA’s Hydrating Cleansing Milk 

The ESPA’s Hydrating Cleansing Milk is a great product for pregnancy due to its all-natural ingredients. The cleansing milk is gentle on the skin and leaves it feeling soft and nourished.

It is ideal for removing makeup or as part of your nighttime routine and will soothe your skin thanks to the Marshmallow and Chamomile extracts.

Burt’s Bees Mama Leg and Foot cream 

The Burt’s Bees Mama Leg and Foot cream is perfect for helping aching legs and feet, especially after a day on your feet.

Burt’s Bees has a fantastic range designed especially for pregnant women and mothers, making this leg and foot cream safe for pregnancy. 

The peppermint oil is cooling while the coconut oil nourishes and hydrates leaving you feeling refreshed to take on a new day. 

La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water Face Mist

Get an instant refresh with this hydrating Thermal Spring Water Face Mist that is pregnancy-safe and great for hot days.

If you are prone to hot flashes, this facial mist will rejuvenate you with a spritz of spring water.

The formulation contains Selenium which is a great natural antioxidant and the spray delivers a welcoming mist that will cool you down and tone your skin. You can spray this over your makeup and it is great if you are heading somewhere hot for a babymoon or need a quick refresh.

Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen 

Ensuring your skin is protected from harmful UV and UVA rays is important to maintain your skin barrier, and prevent drying and premature ageing.

During pregnancy your skin can become extra sensitive so it is vital to use a good sunscreen, that is also safe for pregnancy. 

Even if your make-up has SPF it is good to double up and the Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen is a mineral-based suncream with an SPF of 40.

Its natural formulation is non-greasy, leaving a matt finish, which can be worn under your make-up thanks to its sheer consistency. It is a favourite among dermatologists and provides excellent protection for your skin during pregnancy. 

Expecting a little one?

Sarah Walton Photography is a specialist Maternity, Baby and Newborn photography studio based in Steeton, Keighley – within easy reach of Skipton, Ilkley, Leeds and Bradford.

Read about my Maternity sessions here https://www.sarahwaltonphotography.co.uk/maternity-photo-shoots/

or explore other baby first year photoshoots:

• Newborn Sessions: https://www.sarahwaltonphotography.co.uk/newborn-baby-photography/

• First Birthday Cake Smash & Splash Sessions: https://www.sarahwaltonphotography.co.uk/cake-smash/