Dermalogica Pregnancy Advice
Advice for Pregnant Mothers from Dermalogica
We have been contacted by a number of our customers regarding products and ingredients that can be used during pregnancy. We have consulted with Dermalogica and the International Dermal Institute and their advice is published below.
Pregnancy Advice from the International Dermal Institute
Whilst most of the Dermalogica® products are safe to use during pregnancy, there are specific contraindications and precautions to consider. These include:
High levels of Vitamin A derivatives
Avoid prescription retinoids like Retin-A, Renova, Differen and Tazorac. Oral retinoids, such as Isotretinoin are known to cause birth defects and should not be taken.
If you’ve discovered that you're pregnant and have been using a skin product that contains a retinoid – don't panic. Retinoids have not been shown to cause problems in their topical form in pregnant women. A new study completed in 2015 on topical retinoids in pregnancy has demonstrated no increase in the concerns and conditions usually associated with retinoid use, however, until enough data is collected to ensure safety, women are not encouraged to use retinol continuously during pregnancy.
Detoxifying Products
Products or treatments that promote detoxification are not recommended during pregnancy.
Essential Oils
This caution primarily focuses on the first and in some instances the second trimester. To be on the safe side most doctors will recommend to avoid all essential oils for massage (body and skin) during the first trimester. According to the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) the amount of essential oil that actually accesses the mother’s skin is very tiny and therefore the amount that crosses the placental barrier is extremely small when (and only if) proper dilutions are being used.
Pre-blended oils that are around 1- 2% essential oil concentration are considered safe for body massage and small percentages in skin products are also fine. Dermalogica Botanical Mixers – including Calming Botanical Mixer, Replenishing Botanical Mixer and Purifying Botanical Mixer - are water soluble fractions of essential oils, and are safe due to their water-loving nature and inability to penetrate into the bloodstream
Products containing levels of Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is part of the aspirin family so in high concentrations it is contraindicated for pregnant women, mostly because doctors are unsure of its effects and ability to penetrate topically into the bloodstream. Doctors may be extra cautious in certain cases by recommending that pregnant women avoid the topical use of Salicylic Acid all together. However, small amounts applied to the skin (typically a 2% or less strength) and considered a wash off product – such as a Salicylic Acid-containing cleanser, used once or twice a day – is generally considered safe. Look for a warning label on products with high concentrations of Salicylic Acid for both retail and professional products. If you are unsure about a product or skin treatment, check on the percentage with the manufacturer and get the doctor’s input on safety.
Products to avoid during pregnancy
- Age Reversal Eye Complex (Contains Retinol – Breastfeeding clients should also avoid)
- MultiVitamin Power Serum (Contains Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate)
- Overnight Retinol Repair (Contains Retinol – Breastfeeding clients should also avoid)
- Enzymatic Sea Mud Pack (Detoxifying effects)
- Soothing Additive (20% concentration of essential oils – Pregnant Therapists should also avoid)
- Clearing Additive (20% concentration of essential oils - Pregnant Therapists should also avoid)
- Revitalising Additive (20% concentration of essential oils - Pregnant Therapists should also avoid)
- MultiVitamin Power Exfoliant (Contains Retinol and Salicylic Acid)
- BioSurface™ Peel (Extended application of acids and skin unpredictability)
- Retinol IonActive™ 1% (Contains Retinol)
Product precautions for pregnant clients – based on Doctors advice or personal choice
- Stress Relief Treatment Oil (Pre-blended essential oils)
- Energising Oil (Pre-blended essential oils)
Due to updates to information, regular product reformulations and new product launches this information may become outdated. We would therefore advise that you contact Dermalogica again should you have a similar query in the future to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information.
Education Product Information
International Dermal Institute®
(Published 18/10/2016)
Notes on Advice
It is very important to remember that we are Beauty and Skincare Specialists. We are unable to offer any medical advise in respect of the use of any Dermalogica products whilst pregnant. We recommend that you seek all advice from your GP and always err on the side of caution. For detailed information on the exact type and concentration of chemical used in the products please contact Dermalogica IE direct.
Need more information?
If you need any further information email emerald.laois@gmail.com and we'll be very happy to answer any further questions you may have.