During the pregnancy period when the skin is prone to sensitivity, daily sun protection becomes even more important. Due to the growth and development of the baby, expectant mothers need more sunlight than others to meet the body's large demand for calcium, ensuring the normal development of the baby's bones. To satisfy this need without harming the skin from the sun, mothers should take more sufficient sun protection measures compared to others. Especially during the early stages of pregnancy, with the acceleration of metabolism and increased blood circulation in the skin, sweating increases and the skin tends to be more moist. However, the skin at this stage is often very fragile and may experience increased pigmentation due to UV exposure, leading to spots, freckles, or pregnancy-related liver spots. Proper sun protection can help prevent the darkening of these spots to a certain extent.
As the hot summer of 2011 approaches, many of our expectant mothers are becoming increasingly worried, feeling bored staying indoors all day while the big, round sun outside seems like a restriction, harshly depriving pregnant women of their choices. Choosing a basic sunscreen has become the primary issue for pregnant women. So, how do you select a suitable sunscreen for pregnant women? What kind of sunscreen is good for pregnant women? Experts in maternal care from Qinrun point out:
First, avoid substances that cause skin allergies.
Preservatives, aromatic compounds, and pigments are substances that must be avoided absolutely during pregnancy. Moreover, they are also the three major causes of skin allergies. The more complex the fragrance composition and the larger the amount used, the stronger the stimulation, making it easier to cause skin allergies and phototoxic reactions.
Second, use whitening sunscreens cautiously.
Pay attention to the components contained in the sunscreen. During pregnancy, do not use sunscreens that also have whitening functions. Because some whitening sunscreens add harmful metallic elements such as mercury, lead, or cadmium, or use a large amount of finely ground titanium dioxide. Long-term absorption of mercury by the skin can lead to nervous system disorders, vision loss, kidney damage, hearing decline, skin mucosa sensitivity, and can enter the embryo through the mother, affecting the development of the embryo.
Third, avoid sunscreens with quick skin rejuvenation effects.
If a sunscreen can make the skin fine and smooth within a week, its components are questionable. Studies have found that when a small amount of hormone is added to sunscreen, it makes the skin full and lustrous, but after extensive use, dryness, spotting, and other phenomena will appear. Long-term use of hormone-containing sunscreens can damage cells, bringing the skin closer to aging.
Fourth, recognize the markings on sunscreens.
When choosing sunscreen, pay attention to the markings on the packaging, including product name, manufacturer and address, health permit, production permit, standard name, production date, shelf life or batch number and expiration date, usage instructions, etc. Additionally, sunscreen markings must include a special-purpose license number. When selecting imported cosmetics for pregnant women, look for the import license number and the name and address of the distributor.
Warm reminder:
To reduce melanocyte activity, it is important for expectant mothers to consume enough Vitamin C daily. Vitamin C can interfere with the biosynthesis of melanin and interrupt the formation of melanin in the body. Eating more fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C, such as jujubes, kiwis, oranges, and tomatoes, is beneficial.
It is worth mentioning that watermelons, which are abundant in summer, can be consumed more. Watermelon ranks first among fruits in terms of water content, making it especially suitable for replenishing lost water in the body during summer. Watermelon juice also contains various important health- and beauty-beneficial chemical components, such as multiple amino acids with skin physiological activity. These components are easily absorbed by the skin, providing better moisturizing, nourishing, sun protection, and whitening effects for facial skin.
Related thematic articles: Which skincare brands are best for pregnant women? A comparison between Qinrun, Yunmiao, Pregnant Skin Treasure, and Angel of October skincare products.