
While I had to bid adieu to my beloved Retin-A, the rest of the products I had been using prior to pregnancy were all clean and non-toxic so, thankfully, I didn’t have to make too much changes. (Vintner’s Daughter and Indie Lee are here to stay!) With that said, I have noticed quite a few changes in my skin during pregnancy which means I’ve had to make a few switches and add in a few new products for both my body and face. Below, a list of new additions to my daily routine.
1.Osmia Charcoal Soap – Remember this post about my issues with Perioral Dermatitis? Well, just when I thought it was getting better, I found out I was pregnant and suddenly it got a whole lot worse. Since I can’t take any of the normal oral prescriptions, I’ve had to be extra mindful of what goes on my skin. Per my dermatologist’s recommendations, I switched to this SLS- and fluoride-free toothpaste and started using this black clay soap from Osmia. It’s really mild and doesn’t make my skin dry out. My dermatologist also prescribed Metrogel, which I’ve been using twice per day after cleansing. The change has been slow (patience is key) but I do think this combination is clearing up the PD.
2. Osmia Vital Rose Nectar Drops – Due to the PD, my skin has been slightly more inflamed. I’m using these drops to help soothe and hydrate my skin. I add a couple of drops to my moisturizer at night.
3. Pai Rosehip Rapid Radiance Mask – Melasma during pregnancy is a very real thing. I’ve noticed some definite changes in the overall brightness of my skin along with some dark patches popping up here and there. I don’t want to use anything to aggressive as to not make the above mentioned PD worse but I know I need to be doing something to brighten things up. This mask was recommended to me by a friend and so far, I really like it. It’s very soothing (it has a cooling affect which feels especially great right now during this heat) and simultaneously works to calm and brighten my complexion.
4. Follain Sugar + Shea Body Scrub – One of my friends told me that using a body scrub in the shower is essential to preventing stretch marks so I’ve added one into the mix. I love this one from Follain. It’s super simple, doesn’t smell overly sweet, and makes my skin feel great afterwards.
5. Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil – Every single person I’ve talked to swears by this oil. I have no idea if it works in preventing stretch marks but I figure it definitely isn’t hurting anything – plus I really like the way it makes my skin feel. I use it every single day after getting out of the shower.
I’ve been CLEANing up my personal product act too. Organic pharmacy has some great mom stuff, and my favorite SPF 50 screen. I love Ursa Major’s tonic and washes, and the lotion from Beauty Counter.
Kypris has an evening serum that may be a good substitute for your Retin A.
And am OBSESSED with Gucci Westman’s cosmetics. I have the whole line. You will want to go to Barney’s to try the colors. I use three foundation sticks – light as my eyelids, medium as my cheeks and a dark one that matched my neck. I blend, blend, blend with her brushes. Using the powder bronzer over all the sticks is counter-intuitive, but it melts in. The whole effect is actually best about 20 minutes after application when it has all melted into your skin.Looks and feels natural and glowy.
LOVE these tips. Thanks, Windi!
I am a long time clarins body oil fan (tonic and anti eau) however, i recently developed a hazelnut allergy and since it has hazelnut oil im looking for an alternative. Have you tried any others? Im considering Beautycounters body oil. Thoughts?
I have HORRIBLE PD. Thayers Witch Hazel 2x a day has really helped this bout. Super calming.