Pregnancy is the perfect time to mix it up with your beauty regimen. Pregnant clients often ask me what beauty products they should be using to cut down on their chemical consumption. What passes through your skin can potentially pass through the blood-placental barrier to your baby, so it's worth cleansing your vanity cabinet and stocking up on high-quality products. If you are intending to get pregnant, this is an essential part of the process that so many women overlook. There are countless brands out there loaded with chemicals that aren't so great for you, and certainly not good for your baby. How do you know what is safe to use? Remember your skin is your largest organ, so you want to be keen on what's clean in your beauty routine. Here are my some of my suggestions for chemical-free beauty products that are good for your glow and safe for your baby -- and the planet.
Luscious Locks
Essential oil-infused Organic Shampoo -- Many shampoos on the market claim to enrich your hair and be "natural" but when you look at the ingredients, you're lucky if you can pronounce one of them. Grace Lee of Nine Naturals started her line of shampoo, conditioners and body wash to help women make an easy switch towards green products. It's beauty without compromise, formulated specifically for pregnant women, and it comes in exotic scents like Mandarin & Ginger made with all-organic ingredients. You want a shampoo that is free of sulphates, phthalates, parabens and DEA. To perk up your hair, try the Nine Naturals Citrus & Mint Shampoo, $18.00 www.ninenaturals.com
Get RICH!
Omega Moisture Rich Skin Cream -- Dense creams help protect the skin from dryness and help maintain skin elasticity, often preventing stretch marks. A formula rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 will ensure your skin has the best fighting chance against pregnancy stretch marks. Try Mama Mio Tummy Rub Stretch Mark Butter, $35.00 www.MamaMio.com