When pregnant, your skin goes through many changes and becomes sensitive, making it even more important to protect it, especially from the sun. While all sunscreens are not bad during pregnancy, some may contain harmful ingredients.
What sunscreens are safe during pregnancy?
Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide are safe. They remain on top of the skin rather than getting absorbed, reducing the chances of allergies, which is more likely when you are expecting, as the increased hormone levels and blood supply make your skin highly sensitive.
However, some modern compositions may have nano-sized zinc dioxide and titanium dioxide particles that can easily get absorbed into your body and are not recommended.
Sunscreens with zinc oxide as their component might leave a white layer on the skin when applied. Hence it is essential to rub well.
Harmful ingredients to avoid in sunscreens
Check the label of the bottle to see if it contains chemicals such as oxybenzone (common in most products), homosalate, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, octocrylene, and octyl-dimethyl-PABA (OD-PABA). These should be avoided since they get absorbed into the body and are known to mimic estrogen levels, which could affect your pregnancy. They are even said to break down and increase the activities of the free radicles, resulting in skin damage, as shown in studies.
Retinyl palmitate (an A vitamin) is another component to watch for as overexposure to this vitamin through your diet or skin care products might affect the fetus, increasing the risk of birth defects.
Things to look for when buying sunscreen while pregnant
Apart from checking its ingredients, you also need to make sure that the sunscreen has:
- An SPF (Sun Protection Factor) between 30 and 50 (products with an SPF over 50 do not provide adequate protection, as mentioned by the Environmental Working Group).
- A broad spectrum marking, as they protect against ultraviolet A (UVA) and B (UVB) rays.
- Water-resistant properties ensure protection for a longer time (40-80 minutes), even if you sweat or get exposed to water.
- No fragrance and dyes, as these could trigger allergic reactions.
A two-in-one combination of sunscreen and insect repellant should not be used. If you want to apply an insect repellant, do that after wearing a coat of your sun protection lotion.
8 of the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens to use
1. Neutrogena Dry Touch Sunblock Lotion (SPF 50)
Neutrogena remains water-resistant till 80 minutes from the time of application.
2. Mineral Creme Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB (SPF 50)
It is a lightweight sunscreen that leaves a matte finish when applied.
3. Noodle & Boo Baby Mud Sunscreen (SPF 30)
It contains aloe vera for additional protection, and it also makes the skin smooth to the touch.
4. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Lotion (SPF 50)
It is a suitable choice for those with dry and itchy skin because of its colloidal oatmeal content. Besides lotions, you can also get Aveeno in the sticks, making it all the easier to apply.
5. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen contains antioxidant-rich ingredients like caffeine, green tea, and Vitamin E. The white color of the bottle changes to pink after being exposed to UV rays, as a reminder for you to wear your sunscreen.
6. Raw Elements Eco Formula (SPF 30+)
Available in recyclable tins as well, apart from tubes, it has all-natural components like organic black and green teas, sunflower oil, cocoa, coffee bean, mango butter, and Vitamin E.
7. Babyganics Pure Mineral Sunscreen Stick (SPF 50)
It contains oils of sunflower seed, tomato seed, black cumin seed, raspberry seed, and cranberry seed, which gives the skin a soothing effect.
8. Badger Natural Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 32)
It leaves a smooth and calming effect on the skin since it comprises chamomile and calendula.
While applying sunscreen, wear it 15-30 minutes before going out and reapply every 1-2 hours (non-waterproof) or 2-3 hours (waterproof). If you feel uncomfortable or develop allergic reactions after applying a particular sunscreen, talk to the doctor at once.
References:
- https://www.thebump.com/a/sunscreen-safe-during-pregnancy
- https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/pregnancy-health/pregnancy-summer-safety-sunscreen-protection/
- https://www.parents.com/news/using-chemical-sunscreen-during-pregnancy-may-cause-a-rare-birth-defect/
Dr. Mashiach has completed his MD at the Sackler School of Medicine, TAU; specialization in gynecology at the Lis Maternity and Women’s Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; fellowship in Endoscopy at the Polyclinique de I’Hotel-Dieu, Universite d’Auvergne, Clermont, France.
He is a Senior Physician, Director of the Department of Gynecology, which provides routine and preventative care services to its patients and a full range of gynecological surgical procedures for adequately managing its patients with benign gynecologic disorders.
He offers advanced care in all gynecological subspecialties such as Urogynecology, Colposcopy, Fetal Loss Clinic, and Post Menopausal Clinic.
