7 harmful cosmetic ingredients mums-to-be should avoid

To have healthy, beautiful skin throughout pregnancy, an effective skincare routine is not enough on its own. You also need to pay attention to the cosmetics you use to avoid harming your baby. Below are the cosmetic ingredients mums-to-be should avoid during pregnancy:

- Retinol: You should never use retinol during pregnancy, whether applied to the skin or taken by mouth, especially in the first 3 months. Using too much can cause dangerous complications and even birth defects in the baby.

- Parabens: compounds that cause negative reactions when exposed to UVA/UVB rays. They also increase irritation, ageing and skin discolouration

- Siloxanes: compounds that increase the risk of endocrine disruption, interfere with hormone function and reduce fertility, so they should be avoided during pregnancy.

- Corticosteroids: have many side effects on health, such as high blood pressure, weakened immunity and adrenal suppression, which are very dangerous for mums-to-be during pregnancy.

- Benzoyl peroxide: recommended only at concentrations below 2% to avoid irritation.

- Salicylic acid (BHA): this exfoliating compound is considered dangerous at high concentrations. However, it is safe at BHA concentrations below 5%

- Erythromycin: this is an antibiotic that should only be used on prescription; do not apply it at home on your own while pregnant.

References: hongngochospital.vn