Can You Use Mandelic Acid While Pregnant?
Pregnancy is always a special time, with the rollercoaster of emotions daily, and the focus on the preparation for your little bundle’s arrival, it can feel overwhelming. But this doesn’t mean you should let the stress take over everything, instead, take the time to ensure you still find the time to look after you and indulge in some well-deserved pamper time.
This is something I would encourage all mothers to be to take part in on a regular basis. Another thing I would encourage is to ensure you remain safe so always ensure that the product formulations and actives you apply to your skin are suitable, safe and avoid any unwanted reactions. This brings us nicely to the topic of today’s blog post and finding out whether you can use mandelic acid while pregnant? So, without further a due, let’s dive in and find out more.
What is mandelic acid?
Derived from bitter almonds, mandelic acid is one of the lesser-known members of the alpha hydroxy acid family. Although there is some research lacking, it is still thought to be one of the most gentle AHA with it still helping to target some concerns. The reason for why mandelic acid is so gentle on the skin is the fact that the molecular size is larger than others, such as glycolic acid, meaning it is unable to penetrate too far into the skin leading to irritation.
Some studies have even shown how effective mandelic acid is at combating skin concerns and has even been considered more effective than salicylic acid at treating inflammations such as papules and other breakouts. One study demonstrates how using a chemical peel containing 45% of mandelic acid delivers more results than another peel containing salicylic acid.
Skincare benefits of mandelic acid
Works at exfoliating the outer surface of the skin ridding it of a build-up in excess oil, dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria. This not only gives the complexion and cleansed and glowing finish, but it also reduces the chances of developing acne and other breakouts.
By sloughing away the build-up of dead skin cells, the skin texture is left feeling smoother and firmer.
Mandelic acid can stimulate the production of collagen helping the skin to become plumper, firmer, with fine lines and wrinkles reduced.
Areas of hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots or signs of melasma can be significantly reduced.
Packed with antioxidants, mandelic acid can ward off damage caused from exposure to free radicals, such as UV light, pollution, central heating, and other environmental aggressors.
You can find out more about mandelic acid and how it works on the skin by taking a look at our Skin School.
What products should be avoided when pregnant?
Apart from the food and drink that should be avoided when pregnant, there is also a collection of skincare products and ingredients that should also be avoided.
Retinol, retin-A, and retinyl palmitate
Vitamin A and all its derivatives should be avoided completely throughout pregnancy and post-partum until breast feeding comes to an end. This is due to the complications that can occur to the baby’s development and birth defects.
Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide
Having a flare-up in acne is a common side effect of pregnancy, many favour using salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, however these are too potent for the skin during pregnancy and should be avoided being used. If you are finding it difficult to control any acne breakouts, it’s best to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to find the best options for you and your skin.
Some other ingredients that must not be used during pregnancy are.
Essential oils
Hydroquinone
Formaldehyde
Aluminum chloride
Chemical sunscreens
Dihydroxyacetone
Tetracycline
If you find any of these ingredients are already existing in your routine stop using them as soon as you find out you’re expecting. I would also suggest consulting with your doctor to ensure you are using the best routine to keep you and your baby safe.
When should you not use mandelic acid?
You should not use mandelic acid if you plan on applying retinol to the skin at the same time. This is because it will be too much exfoliation and become too harsh on the skin causing it to become severely dry and irritated. With over-exfoliation you will also strip the skin of sebum, the natural oil occurring on the skin surface. This can cause some imbalance within the skin resulting in an overproduction of sebum leading to the skin becoming increasingly oily and erupt with breakouts, acne, and other blemishes.
If you are wanting to use mandelic and retinol in your routine, it would be best to alternate between the two powerhouses. By avoiding layering on them on top of each other you will give the skin enough time to absorb and rebalance its pH levels allowing the skin to reap the rewards without any unwanted dryness or irritation.
Is mandelic acid safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, mandelic acid is safe to use while breastfeeding. This is due to the acid not penetrating the skin as much as other more potent acids, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid, this is due to fact it has a larger molecular size.
If you are feeling unsure or nervous about using a skincare formula, especially if it is a new product, then it’s best to consult with a doctor before applying anything to the skin.
What skincare can I use while pregnant?
There are several dedicated brands who have developed specific products for mothers to be to use with peace of mind. However, if you are wanting to simply change a few things in your existing routine, then you must first understand your skin will go through a few changes during pregnancy. Some of the most common skin issues that can occur when expecting are, dry skin, areas of melasma and hyperpigmentation, and flare-up in acne. You may also find if you suffer from any pre-existing skin concerns, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea these may worsen for a short amount of time during your first trimester.
There you have a little more information about using mandelic acid while pregnant. Don’t forget if you have any further questions, come, and find us on Instagram.
DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek.
“Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more.
Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals.
Sunscreen
“We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.”
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen
An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup.
Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand.
Vitamin C Serum
“A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum
The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation.
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum
This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants.
Peptides
Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.”
Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream
This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively.
This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek.
At-Home Peel Pads
Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate.
“The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.”
According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says.
Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad
A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection.
KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads
These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids.
Emollient Night Cream
“In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.”
“Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products.
Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream
One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme
“The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.
