Pregnancy: You should avoid these beauty treatments now

During pregnancy, not only the body changes, but also the skin - and often noticeably. Some women enjoy the famous glow and feel more beautiful than ever. Others are suddenly struggling with dry and sensitive skin or new, unwanted pigment spots - and would like to get a little help, especially in this phase, in order to feel good again. What does this mean for your beauty routine? And which treatments are safe now? “Basically, the protection and safety of the baby and the pregnant woman have top priority.”says Dr. Katja Hackemann, doctor and owner ofMedical skin barin Poing near Munich. We talked to her about what expectant and new mothers should pay attention to.

It is clear:Hormonal changesensure that the skin reacts more intensely during pregnancy. “Our bodies do great things and we can feel that in our skin,” says Dr. Hackemann. On the one hand, more melanin is produced, which meansand the melasma (larger pigment spots, for example above the upper lip or on the forehead) typical of pregnant women can develop - more consistentlyis therefore mandatory. On the other hand, many women tend to have dry skin, impurities or even eczema. “Here, less is more,” explains the doctor. Gentle care tailored to changing needs is now the be-all and end-all.

With minimally invasive treatments such asor hyaluronic acid fillers: it is better to avoid them. “Even if no negative effects have been proven, there is a lack of sufficient studies that could guarantee safe use,” says Dr. Katja Hackemann. In addition, possible complications would be more difficult to treat - a risk that is simply not necessary. The same applies to microneedling: In addition to an increased risk of infection, the treatment can cause the skin to become more pigmented. The expert also advises against strong peels: “Some peels – for example retinol peels – are absolutely contraindicated. A teratogenic effect cannot be ruled out.”

The rules from pregnancy continue to apply while breastfeeding. Here too, the study situation is thin, says Dr. Katja Hackemann. But: “Beauty treatments could cause complications that force you to stop breastfeeding.” Therefore, you should continue to do so during this timeBotox, fillers, lasers or intensive peels are avoided. But don't worry: with the right alternatives, your skin will stay well cared for during this time.

So you should prefer the natural pregnancy glowsupport with gentle care alternatives:. “Hyaluronic acid serums provide moisture, while ingredients like panthenol and peptides can soothe the skin and stimulate collagen production,” recommends Dr. Hackemann. Azelaic or mandelic acid are suitable for a mild peeling effect, which promote cell renewal without putting strain on the skin.

Anyone planning to become pregnant should also think again early on. Treatments or care products withshould be paused during the desire to have children phase. “Especially in early pregnancy, often before the pregnancy is known, certain substances can harm the unborn child,” explains the expert. Reassuring: “With Botox, you should of course avoid it if the pregnancy test is positive,” says the specialist for anti-aging and wrinkle treatments. But: If treatment was carried out when you didn't know anything about the pregnancy, the risk is low because: “The baby's bloodstream only begins to connect with the mother's from around the fourth week of pregnancy. Before that, the so-called all-or-nothing principle applies,” says Dr. Hackemann. However, she also makes it clear: “If you are actively undergoing fertility treatment, I advise you in my practice to take a complete break from aesthetic treatments.”

The following applies during pregnancy and breastfeeding:Gentle care instead of risky treatments. This is how you do something good for yourself and your baby.