These days it is much easier for moms and moms-to-be to care for their skin during, and after, pregnancy. But it is easy to get overwhelmed with the different types of products available and struggle to decide what is really necessary. And that’s before you even start to consider all the different brands. We’ve discovered what it is you really need, irrespective of which brand you buy, and interestingly the magic four products includes the sugar in your kitchen cupboard!
Firstly, make a visit to your local department store or pharmacist and speak to a skincare consultant. These appointments are usually free or relatively cheap and will provide you with a useful skin analysis. Remember you don’t have to buy anything they recommend, but it is a great opportunity to find out what’s right for you and your skin.
Your skin type will usually stay the same after pregnancy as it was before you became pregnant, but its condition may alter slightly. For instance, if you have dry skin, it may be drier than usual. This shouldn’t impact on the type of creams you are using.
Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. These tips are all ones that will ensure your skincare regime is both quick and easy to use. Before you start it is recommended that you choose make-up products you can remove easily. If you are going to buy waterproof ones, be aware that you HAVE to take the time to remove them properly. At a time when you are time-poor, easily removable products are probably your best option.
So what do you need?
Remover / Cleanser
If you are going to wear make-up, then make sure you have a remover. Keep it in the shower so you remember to use it on a daily basis.
Moisturiser with SPF in it
Your skin will be in constant need of hydration and protection from the harsh elements of the sun. Apply this every morning.
Eye cream
This is a vital ingredient for time-poor and tired moms. This cream not only helps the skin around the eyes, but also acts as a conditioner for your lashes and helps prevent them breaking off. The lashes will absorb the eye cream from the newly moisturised area.
Eye cream should be applied carefully - put it on your ring finger, and halve it again with the other ring finger on your right hand. It’s hard to be rough when you apply eye cream using these fingers. Then go in a moon shape around the orbital bone and move gently round the eye area.
If it feels puffy or uncomfortable you have probably used too much, and eye cream should always be applied sparingly. Use a cream rather than a gel, because it will provide extra moisturisation, which is very helpful to new moms.
Exfoliant
You don’t need to buy a special one at all. Instead, take a cup full of sugar in the shower with you. Douse your body in it while in the shower. The sugar will act as a peel on your skin and stimulate it. Start on your legs and work towards your heart and do the same with your arms. On your stomach make sure to exfoliate clockwise. It contains no chemicals and won’t harm your skin and is also inexpensive. It’s also easy to clean up!
You can also exfoliate your lips with sugar and it will leave a lovely soft finish.
Essentially the sugar acts to retain moisture and will work with the water to break down the dead cells. You can do this once a week. However, if you are going to use it on your face it should be applied sparingly.
It is also helpful to note that skincare products should always be applied using an upward and outward motion.
There are multiple other products you can add to your skincare regime, of course, but these basics are a terrific place to start. A couple of great extra items that can be added to the “nice-to-have” list are:
Night cream – this will ensure your skin is being moisturised on a 24-hour basis
Toner – you can add this to your post shower routine straight after cleansing
Remember that, while you are caring for others, it is important to invest some time in yourself as well. Having your skin in tip-top condition is a terrific way to care for yourself without dipping into too much of the precious “me” time you have.
