ask the experts Our Experts on Skincare During Pregnancy

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ask the experts Skincare During Pregnancy

Q A

I just found out I am pregnant. I am excited but wondering, among so many other things, if I should care for my skin any differently?

Expecting

One of the most overlooked categories is specialty skincare issues for women during and post pregnancy. Unfortunately, not all women’s skin is “glowing” during their pregnancy. There are other skin conditions that can arise during and after pregnancy such as acne, which may be creating breakouts on the face, chest and back. Look for products that include sulfur, a natural ingredient that has antibacterial and antiinflammatory qualities to promote healing. A product that is great for addressing acne is an exfoliating acne treatment gel for the face or a clarifying body spray & acne body wash for breakouts on the body. The acne spot treatment and acne treatment concealer are great products that can be found with 2 in 1 treatments and are clinically proven to be 86% effective in revealing clearer skin in two weeks. Chloasma, otherwise known melasma, is another major skin concern during and post pregnancy due to the body producing more melanin and excess pigment resulting in uneven skin texture and color. To prevent melasma, women should avoid the sun while pregnant and after giving birth. Lots of sunscreen during the day will definitely help in preventing this condition. Try an essential-C day moisturizer with SPF 30 and couple with essential-C night moisture before you go to bed to promote cell turnover for an even, youthful-

Manna Kadar is the founder of Island Tan Salon & Spa and The Beauty Bar Training & Consulting with locations in Laguna Niguel & Fullerton. She has been featured in Beauty Industry magazines nationwide. www.islandtansalon.com

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Our Experts on Skincare During Pregnancy, Teen Dating, and Feasting, Not Fattening

looking skin tone. Treatments such as an age spot and pigmentation lightener will lighten those darker spots in approximately 60 days. Non-specific dermatitis can also develop in pregnant women. The changes in hormones can induce red, flaky patches on the face and other parts of the body. Look for products that are anti-inflammatory and suited to sensitive skin, which normally are fragrance-free and noncomedogenic. A refreshing cleanser is recommended to add moisture back to the dehydrated parts on the skin and gently exfoliate that top layer of dead skin cells away. If redness is more of a problem, then substitute for a soothing gel cleanser. These products are conditioning and will help reduce the redness while relieving any tightness and discomfort. Follow either of these with essential-C day moisture with SPF 30 during the day and essential-C night moisture at night. If melasma and dermatitis isn’t enough, many mom’s suffer from dark, puffy eyes due to exhaustion and poor circulation. Using an eye cream or serum with nourishing ingredients like peptides and aloe vera will help hydrate the eye area and reduce swelling. Try using a lighten and brighten eye treatment or renewing eye cream to reduce puffiness and dark circles while also reducing minor wrinkles. During the day, be sure to use an essential-C eye cream with SPF 15 to protect and hydrate the sensitive eye area. Give yourself a break and indulge in a monthly facial for a deep cleansing of the skin and to restore that luminous glow. Look for facials such as the sun undone vitamin C infusion facial that is an antioxidant rich treatment formulated to restore clarity, texture, elasticity and firmness, while fading pigmentation and smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. Another popular facial is an AHA Rapid exfoliator anti-aging facial using a glycolic acid to exfoliate away dead skin cells, revealing a softer, smoother complexion. Lastly, don’t forget that the key to health and wellness for your skin starts with balanced diet and regular exercise. This, in combination with your new skincare routine, will keep your skin looking youthful and flawless. — Manna Kadar-Pruin

Lisa Jander, the Teen Whisperer, is a Certified Life Coach, Speaker and Author of “Dater’s Ed: The Instruction Manual for Parents.” www.DatersEd.com

Carissa Sanchez is a mother of two and the nutritionist at Susan’s Healthy Gourmet, a 16-year-old Orange County–based company that creates and delivers healthy, fresh meals. www.susanshealthygourmet.com

Parenting OC Magazine | November 2011