Body scrubs are a great way to pamper yourself. But just like most other cosmetic products, you may wonder about the safety of body scrubs during pregnancy. With the stretching of the skin, the added stress, and popping out of pimples, it becomes especially important to take care of your skin while pregnant. Scrubs gently exfoliate the skin and remove the dead skin cells, leaving it glowing and smooth (1). You may use scrubs that are natural and chemical-free. However, you need to consider certain tips and measures while using them during pregnancy. Read on to know more about the use of scrubs in pregnancy, including its benefits and side effects.
How Does A Body Scrub Work?
A layer of dead cells covers the skin of the entire body. It leaves the skin looking dark, dull and lifeless. Body scrubs gently remove the layer of dead cells and improve skin renewal, thereby lending you that ‘natural radiance’ and ‘silky softness’. Using them occasionally can also reduce the dark spots. Also, exfoliation tends to improve blood circulation. It also allows the moisture to penetrate and nourish the skin (2).
Is It Safe To Use A Body Scrub During Pregnancy?
Most experts believe that body scrubs are safe for use during pregnancy. You can use salt or sugar-based body scrubs during your pregnancy period without any risk to your baby. Your skin does not deeply absorb salt and sugar, which is why it is quite safe to use them. Avoid salt-based body scrubs, if your skin is sensitive and stressed, since it tends to break the smaller blood vessels (3) (4).
Tips On How To Use A Body Scrub While Pregnant
While it is almost entirely safe to use body scrubs during pregnancy, there are a few important things you must keep in mind (1) (5).
If your scrub contains harmful chemicals, your skin may absorb it and lead to fetal complications. Check the label before you pick up a scrub from the supermarket.
So go natural and organic to pamper your skin! You can also try homemade scrubs that won’t harm your baby and leave your skin glowing too! Sugar and salt-based scrubs that have some emollients work wonders for your skin! Image: Shutterstock
Gently massage the body scrub, particularly during pregnancy. It is important to keep in mind that body scrubs contain granules, and rubbing it too harshly on your delicate skin could injure it. After all you are looking to add some glow to your skin and not bruises!
Avoid the use of Aloe Vera lotions, scrubs, and products as it may lead to birth defects.
Make use of gentle exfoliating agents such as jojoba beads or other ground seeds to scrub your skin clean.
Avoid using body scrubs that have essential oils, such as aniseed, basil, camphor, sage, birch, lemongrass, and some others (6).
Avoid using body scrubs that contain essential oils that tend to irritate or sensitize the skin. It may be a good idea to take your doctor’s suggestion (7).
The psychological benefits of a” scrub “are from the physical contact, not just the substances used. Think about using a plain wet or dry clean flannel, loofah, or bath sponge instead. Take your time making contact with your skin and enjoying your bath time without worrying about what chemicals, natural or otherwise, might affect you.
