Glowing Through Pregnancy: A Guide to Safe + Effective Skincare

Understanding What’s Safe, What to Avoid, and How to Support Your Skin During Pregnancy 

Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation — not just emotionally and physically, but for your skin too. Hormonal changes can bring about everything from glowing radiance to unexpected breakouts, pigmentation, and sensitivity. If you’re wondering how to safely care for your skin during this chapter, you’re not alone — and we’re here to help.

Why Pregnancy Changes Your Skin

As hormone levels fluctuate, you may notice:

• Increased oil production
• Skin sensitivity
• Melasma (dark patches)
• Acne
• Dryness or irritation

These changes are completely normal, but they can make choosing skincare feel confusing, especially with so much conflicting information online.

Safe Skincare Starts with Smart Ingredients

Not all skincare ingredients are recommended during pregnancy. Some commonly used actives — like high-dose retinoids, hydroquinone, or certain essential oils — are best avoided until after delivery or breastfeeding.

But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on results-driven skincare.

At A Healer’s Hand + The Nest, we use trusted, professional-grade brands like Environ, Colorescience, and Hydrafacial™ —all of which are science-backed, results-driven, and formulated with the highest level of consumer safety in mind. We choose these lines because they’re developed through rigorous research and clinical testing, and specifically designed to consider sensitive skin and life transitions — like pregnancy — giving us full confidence in their effectiveness and integrity.

• Environ products are manufactured according to ISO 9001 and ISO 22716 standards and adhere to cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices). Each batch is scientifically tested and formulated without preservatives or perfumes, and the Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™ is even endorsed by the Swiss Vitamin Institute for guaranteed vitamin strength and effectiveness. 
• Colorescience products are 100% free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, animal testing, talc, dyes, mineral oils, drying alcohols, and chemical sunscreens. Their commitment to clean, non-irritating formulations makes them ideal for sensitive skin. 

These product lines are chosen for their safety, efficacy, and suitability for sensitive skin, especially during life transitions like pregnancy. Still, we recommend consulting your OB/GYN or prenatal care provider before starting any new skincare routine.

Common Pregnancy Skin Concerns & How to Treat Them Gently

1. Breakouts & Blemishes

Hormonal acne is very common during pregnancy. Gentle exfoliation with lactic acid or low-strength salicylic acid (in consultation with your provider) can help, as can Environ’s Focus Care™ Clarity+ products, designed for clearer, more balanced skin.

2. Melasma & Hyperpigmentation

Dark patches (often across the cheeks and forehead) can appear or worsen during pregnancy due to increased melanin production. Sun protection is key — look for mineral-based SPF like Colorescience’s Sunforgettable® Total Protection® Face Shield Flex SPF 50, which offers safe, effective daily protection without harsh chemical filters.

3. Dryness & Sensitivity

If your skin feels dry or irritated, focus on barrier support. Hydrating masks, antioxidant serums, and gentle moisturizers can bring comfort and calm. Environ’s Super Moisturiser and Colostrum Gel are pregnancy-safe options that deliver powerful soothing benefits.

What About Facials?

Yes, you can absolutely enjoy professional skincare treatments during pregnancy — with a few modifications. Our team is trained to adjust protocols for each trimester, ensuring your comfort and safety while still delivering visible results. We’ll avoid heat-based modalities or strong acids and instead focus on hydration, lymphatic support, and calming techniques.

Our HydraFacial™ and high touch skin treatments, for example, can be adapted to avoid contraindicated boosters while still offering deep cleansing and glow-enhancing benefits. Our lymphatic drainage support treatments are excellent pregnancy-safe treatment options that offer gentle relief for puffiness or water retention, which are common issues throughout pregnancy. 

Skincare Self-Care

Pregnancy is a time to honor your body — and your skin care can be a beautiful extension of that. Whether you’re navigating changes, looking to treat yourself, or simply want a safe and effective routine, we’re here to guide and support you in achieving your skin health goals.

Have questions about your current skincare products or what’s safe during pregnancy? Our licensed professionals are happy to help guide you through every step.