Keep your skin soft and hydrated during pregnancy with our top picks for the best lotions to use while pregnant.
Hey there, gorgeous mamas-to-be! Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also bring a lot of changes to your body, including changes to your skin.
Your body goes through a lot of changes during the 9 months of pregnancy, and that includes a lot of stretching of your skin. This can cause dryness, chapping, itchiness, irritation, and sometimes even stretch marks.
Additionally, you might notice that your skin tone isn’t as even as it used to be, with some dark spots appearing.
The good news is, with the right skincare routine, you can keep your skin soft and hydrated, and prevent those pesky stretch marks from appearing.
Today, we’re sharing our top picks for the best lotions to use while pregnant. From pregnancy-safe lotions to the best pregnancy stretch mark oil and stretch mark creams, we’ve got you covered. So, grab a cup of tea, put your feet up, and let’s get started!
Why Do You Need a Special Lotion During Pregnancy?
As your body goes through exciting changes, it’s important to take care of yourself, including your skin. With all the hormonal changes happening, you may experience dryness, itchiness, flaking, or rashes, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Choosing the right moisturizer can make all the difference in maintaining hydrated skin and reducing discomfort. Our top lotion picks have been carefully selected with a pregnant woman’s needs in mind, so you can have peace of mind knowing you’re using a gentle, safe product that will provide the comfort you need.
What Are The Best Stretch Mark Creams For Pregnancy?
We know stretch marks can be a concern during pregnancy, but we’ve got some good news! There are tons of moisturizers out there that specifically target this issue.
These creams are often made with natural ingredients like cocoa butter or shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba, vitamin C, organic aloe, and calendula oils, which work wonders in keeping your skin supple and preventing those pesky stretch marks from making an appearance too soon.
Plus, they also act as a barrier against further damage caused by pregnancy hormones. So, go ahead and pamper yourself with a stretch mark cream – your beautiful growing belly deserves some extra TLC!
Read Also: How to Prepare for a Baby
What Are Some Good Ingredients In Pregnancy Lotions?
When it comes to finding the best lotions to use while pregnant, natural is the way to go! Look out for nourishing ingredients like aloe vera extract, shea butter, coconut oil, or cocoa butter, which will provide the hydration your skin needs without causing any irritation or discomfort.
Plus, here’s a bonus tip: some moisturizers even contain vitamin E, which can help reduce the appearance of any pesky stretch marks you might already have. So, go ahead and indulge in a little self-care with a natural, hydrating moisturizer – your glowing, radiant skin will thank you!
What Is The Best Way To Apply Skin Care While Pregnant?
When it comes to moisturizing, less is more. You don’t want to feel all greasy and weighed down, so just use enough product to coat your skin. After washing and patting dry, gently massage the cream into your skin, paying extra attention to any dry areas like knees or elbows. If you need something a little heavier, try a balm or ointment.
And remember, steer clear of any harsh chemicals like artificial fragrances or colorants – they can cause irritation and rashes. Stick to simple, calming formulas with essential oils if that’s your jam.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links that I may earn a commission from. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read my full disclosure HERE.
Which Skin Care Ingredients Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, it’s crucial to avoid potentially toxic ingredients in skincare products that may harm the developing fetus or cause other adverse effects.
According to Healthline, here are some of the most commonly recommended ingredients to steer clear of:
- Retinoids: Retinoids are a type of vitamin A derivative that is often found in anti-aging products and acne treatments. However, high doses of retinoids have been linked to birth defects and should be avoided during pregnancy. Some examples of retinoids include retinol, retinaldehyde, and adapalene.
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in acne treatments and exfoliating products. While low doses are generally considered safe during pregnancy, high doses can potentially cause birth defects or other complications.
- Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that is used to treat hyperpigmentation. However, it has been linked to potential harm to the developing fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a preservative that is often found in nail polish, hair treatments, and other personal care products. It has been linked to potential harm to the developing fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Phthalates: Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are used to make plastics more flexible and can be found in fragrances, nail polish, and other personal care products. They have been linked to potential harm to the developing fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Oxybenzone: Used in chemical sunscreens, oxybenzone, and its variations is often used as an ultraviolet (UV) filter. This compound has potentially harmful impacts on health and the environment.
Try using a mineral sunscreen instead like Thinksport Safe Sunscreen, which Healthline rates as their top pick for pregnancy-safe sunscreen.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all skincare ingredients have been tested for safety during pregnancy. All of the best lotions to use while pregnant that are listed below are safe for you and your baby during your pregnancy.
But, it’s always best to check with your doctor or a reliable source to get specific recommendations.
Best Lotions to Use While Pregnant
Not only are these moisturizers great for dry skin, but they also aid in reducing the appearance of stretch marks!
Best Pregnancy Safe Lotions and Stretch Mark Prevention Products:
Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter: This lotion is specifically designed for pregnant women, and it contains a variety of natural ingredients that are great for keeping your skin moisturized and supple during your pregnancy.
One of the key ingredients in Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter is shea butter, which is known for its moisturizing and soothing properties. This ingredient can help to keep your skin soft and supple, which can be especially important during pregnancy when your skin is prone to dryness and irritation.
The lotion also contains cocoa butter, which is another great ingredient for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Cocoa butter is packed with antioxidants that can help to protect your skin from damage, and it’s also known for its ability to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
And, my favorite reason why I highly recommend this belly butter is: It’s free from any harmful chemicals or synthetic fragrances. This means that you can use it with confidence, knowing that it’s safe for you and your growing baby.
Earth Mama Belly Butter: Earth Mama Belly Butter, is packed with natural ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and vitamin E. These ingredients work together to deeply nourish and hydrate your skin, which can help to prevent the formation of stretch marks during pregnancy.
One of the things that I love about this lotion is that it’s fragrance-free, which is great for those with sensitive skin or who are sensitive to strong smells during pregnancy. Plus, it’s also free of any other harmful chemicals or ingredients that could potentially harm your developing baby.
Another great thing about Earth Mama Belly Butter is that it’s not just for your belly – you can use it all over your body to keep your skin soft and supple.
Whether you’re dealing with dry, itchy skin or just want to keep your skin looking and feeling its best during pregnancy, this lotion is a fantastic choice and one of my personal favorite lotions to use while pregnant.
Mustela Stretch Mark Cream: This cream is great for expecting mothers because it’s specially formulated to help prevent the formation of stretch marks during pregnancy.
One of the key ingredients in this cream is avocado oil peptides, which are known for their ability to improve skin elasticity. This is really important during pregnancy because as your belly grows, your skin can become stretched and prone to tearing. Avocado peptides can help to keep your skin supple and elastic, which can reduce the likelihood of stretch marks forming.
The formula of this cream is also non-greasy and absorbs quickly, which means you won’t have to worry about feeling sticky or uncomfortable after applying it. And because it’s made with natural ingredients, you can feel good about using it during your pregnancy.
Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion Unscented: This lotion is a fantastic option for pregnant mamas who want to keep their skin soft and hydrated and not spend a fortune!
One of the reasons it’s great is that it’s made with natural, plant-based ingredients that are safe for use during pregnancy. For example, it contains aloe vera, which is known for its soothing properties, as well as chamomile and lavender extracts, which can help calm irritated skin.
It’s also free from any harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates, which is really important during pregnancy. Plus, it’s a really moisturizing lotion that will keep your skin feeling soft and supple all day long.
Bonus: This lotion is not created specifically for pregnancy but because of its amazing ingredients it’s a great option.
The best part about this is you get a large bottle that should last you months, for an already low price. So if you’re not looking to spend a lot, this is a great way to save some money.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks:
This is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a pregnancy-safe lotion that can keep your skin moisturized and supple.
One of the key ingredients in Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion is cocoa butter, which is known for its ability to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin. It’s also been shown to improve the elasticity of the skin, which can help to prevent the formation of stretch marks.
Another great ingredient in this lotion is vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
It’s also been shown to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, which can help to reduce the visibility of existing stretch marks.
One of the best things about Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion is that it’s a pregnancy-safe lotion, which means that you don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals or ingredients that could potentially harm your developing baby.
So, if you’re looking for a great pregnancy-safe lotion that can help to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks, I highly recommend giving Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion a try.
Green Goo Belly Balm: Green Goo Belly Balm Salve is perfect for pregnant women as it’s made up of natural, organic ingredients that are completely safe for you and your baby.
The belly balm salve has two active ingredients: Rosehip Seed Extract and Cocoa Seed Extract. Rosehip has been found to have calming properties and can help soothe, even out skin tone, protect, and hydrate the skin. Cocoa Seed Extract moisturizes, hydrates, nourishes, protects, and soothes.
Along with the active ingredients, there are several inactive ingredients like lavender oil and shea butter which are great for the skin.
These ingredients work together to nourish and soothe the skin, especially in areas that are prone to stretching.
Honest Mama Rock the Bump Body Butter: This belly butter is pretty awesome! It has a buttery smooth blend of shea butter, avocado oil, and vitamin E.
It’s thick and takes a little bit of time to sink in, but not too much. Some people have said that it can be a little tricky to spread around because it’s so thick, but others really like how moisturizing it is.
It doesn’t take too long to soak in so you don’t have to worry about it leaving a greasy residue behind.
One last plus for this bump butter is that it is unscented and many users describe it as having little to no smell…so your pregnancy nose won’t be bothered by this one!
Pipette Belly Butter & Belly Oil Duo: First up, this Belly Oil is fast-absorbing and helps calm any tight, itchy skin you might be experiencing.
It keeps your skin feeling soft and supple, even as your body changes shape. And let me tell you, it feels amazing!
But that’s not all, the Belly Butter is extra-rich and packed with nourishing peptides and plant-derived ingredients.
It helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, which is something I know many of us worry about during pregnancy. And it just feels so luxurious when you apply it – like a little pampering session for your skin.
All Pipette products are created with the help of biologists, pediatricians, and dermatologists to make sure they’re safe and gentle for babies.
All their formulas are hypoallergenic, free of synthetic fragrances, cruelty-free, and EWG (Environmental Working Group) Verified – how awesome is that?
Best Stretch Mark Cream:
Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy: This cream is packed with a unique blend of natural ingredients like Centella Asiatica plant extract, hyaluronic acid, and onion bulb extract that work together to keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
**PER MEDERMA, THIS IS SAFE TO USE BEGINNING THE SECOND TRIMESTER**
Centella Asiatica plant extract is one of the key ingredients in Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy cream, and it’s known for its ability to stimulate collagen production in the skin.
This helps to improve the elasticity and firmness of your skin, which in turn can prevent the formation of stretch marks.
Hyaluronic acid is another essential ingredient that can help to keep your skin moisturized, soft, and supple. It’s a natural humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, which means that it can help to prevent the skin from drying out and becoming damaged.
Onion bulb extract is a powerful antioxidant that can help to reduce inflammation and protect your skin from free radicals. It’s also been shown to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, which can help to reduce the visibility of existing stretch marks.
Overall, Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy cream is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.
Best Pregnancy Stretch Mark Oil
Earth Mama Belly Oil: This all-natural oil contains ingredients such as jojoba oil, almond oil, and vitamin E to keep the skin moisturized and prevent stretch marks from forming. It’s also free from harmful chemicals and fragrances, making it safe for use during pregnancy.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil: This is an amazing product, formulated for all skin types, that can help improve the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and uneven skin tone. The best part is that it’s lightweight and non-greasy, so you can use it daily during pregnancy without feeling uncomfortable.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil contains natural plant oils and vitamins that help to nourish and hydrate the skin, keeping it supple and healthy-looking. It’s an excellent addition to your skincare routine during pregnancy.
Hatch Mama Belly Oil: If you’re looking for a splurge or a wonderful gift for an expecting friend, look no further. This oil contains calendula, sweet almond oil, and grapefruit oil, which are amazing for soothing irritated skin, promoting skin strength, and providing antioxidants.
The great thing about Hatch Mama Belly Oil is that it won’t leave your skin feeling greasy or oily because of its quick-dry formula.
You can apply it and go about your day without worrying about any residue getting on your clothes or feeling uncomfortable.
Plus, it’s fragrance-free, which is great if you’re sensitive to smells during pregnancy.
FAQ About The Best Stretch Mark Prevention During Pregnancy
Q: What should I look for in a pregnancy-safe lotion?
A: When shopping for a pregnancy-safe lotion, look for products that are free from harsh chemicals, such as parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Also, choose products that are formulated specifically for sensitive skin, as your skin may be more sensitive than usual during pregnancy.
Q: What is the best pregnancy stretch mark oil?
A: There are many great pregnancy stretch mark oils on the market, but one of our favorites is Bio-Oil. This lightweight, non-greasy oil is packed with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and jojoba oil, which work to improve skin elasticity and prevent stretch marks from forming.
Q: Can I use regular stretch mark creams during pregnancy?
A: While regular stretch mark creams may be effective, it’s important to choose a product that is specifically formulated for use during pregnancy. Regular creams may contain ingredients that are not safe for use during pregnancy, so it’s best to stick with products that are specifically labeled as pregnancy safe.
Q: What is the best way to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?
A: The best way to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy is to keep your skin well-hydrated with a pregnancy-safe lotion or oil. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and eating a balanced diet can all help to prevent stretch marks from forming.
Q: Can I use a regular lotion during pregnancy?
A: While regular lotion may not be harmful to use during pregnancy, it’s recommended to switch to pregnancy-safe lotion that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, fragrances or dyes.
Q: Can I prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?
A: While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy, using stretch mark prevention products can help. Products with ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, and vitamin E can help keep the skin supple and prevent stretch marks from forming.
Q: When should I start using stretch mark prevention products?
A: It’s best to start using stretch mark prevention products as soon as you find out you’re pregnant, as this will give your skin the best chance of staying supple and preventing stretch marks from forming.
Q: Can stretch marks be removed completely?
A: Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed way to completely remove stretch marks. However, there are products and treatments available that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Q: Are all pregnancy-safe lotions expensive?
A: No, not all pregnancy-safe lotions are expensive. There are many affordable options available that are specifically formulated for pregnant women.
Final Thoughts on The Best Lotions to Use While Pregnant
Pregnancy is a special time in a woman’s life, but it can also come with its challenges, including skin changes and the risk of developing stretch marks. However, with the right pregnancy-safe lotion, you can keep your skin hydrated, and healthy, and prevent the appearance of stretch marks.
The best pregnancy stretch mark oil, best stretch mark cream, and best stretch mark prevention during pregnancy are all excellent choices to keep your skin smooth and supple throughout your pregnancy.
With natural ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, and vitamin E, these lotions are gentle, nourishing, and effective at preventing stretch marks.
So, whether you’re in your first trimester or nearing the end of your pregnancy, make sure to add one of these lotions to your skincare routine for the best possible results.
Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before using any new product during pregnancy, and enjoy this special time in your life!
Keep your skin soft and hydrated during pregnancy with our top picks for the best lotions to use while pregnant.
Read Also: How to Prepare for a Baby
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