By Mary-Jane Ugbor

For many Nigerian women, the quest for flawless skin is a priority and skincare routine has rapidly become a daily ritual. Federal Government of Nigeria states that over 70 per cent of its women use skincare products ranging from brightening creams to acne treatments and body lotions. However, during pregnancy, what goes on the skin matters just as much as what goes into the body. Many skincare products contain chemicals that can permeate the skin into the bloodstream, potentially affecting both mother and baby.

According to WHO, 2016, birth defects were identified to be the cause of death in 303,000 neonates under one month of age and 3.2 million live- born children are disabled for life. Despite the growing beauty industry in Nigeria, awareness of the impact of skincare on maternal health remains low. This article explores how certain skincare ingredients can pose risks during pregnancy and offers safer alternatives for expectant mothers.

Hidden dangers
Pregnancy brings hormonal changes that often lead to acne, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks, prompting many women to seek skincare solutions. However, some common ingredients in these products can be harmful to both maternal and fetal health. Such ingredients include:

Hydroquinone: This is commonly found in most skin-brightening creams and is highly absorbable through the skin. While current studies have not shown an increased risk of adverse effect in pregnant women, its high systemic absorption rate raises concerns about potential fetal exposure.

Retinoids: This is commonly found in anti-aging and acne products. Retinoids (including retinol, tretinoin, and isotretinoin) are linked to severe mental and physical birth defects known as fetal retinoid syndrome and should be strictly avoided during pregnancy.

Parabens: This ingredient is used as preservatives in lotions and creams. It helps prevent bacteria growth in cosmetics, but can disrupt hormone levels, which is particularly concerning for pregnant women. Studies suggest they may be linked to lower birth weight and has potential effect on the male reproductive development. Hence, it should be avoided during pregnancy.

Phthalates: This is used to make skincare, and cosmetics products smell good. Studies have shown that they affect maternal thyroid hormones which are essential for fetal growth and development. Thus, prenatal exposure to phthalates may cause complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, hypertension (preeclampsia) potential impact on fetal development and hormone levels.

Mercury: Some unregulated skin-lightening creams contain mercury, a toxic substance that can cause severe neurological and cognitive damage in unborn babies. Many of these products circulate in Nigeria despite regulatory efforts.

Potential health effects
The use of some skincare products during pregnancy can lead to: Hormonal imbalance: Interfering with the body’s hormone system can impact pregnancy, potentially raising the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

Fetal development defects: Certain chemicals such as retinoids and phthalates have been associated with birth defects and neurological disorders in babies.

Increased skin sensitivity: Pregnancy can heighten skin reactivity, making expectant mothers more susceptible to irritation and allergic responses from harsh chemicals.
Cardiovascular risks: Long term exposure to certain ingredients can cause hypertension (preeclampsia) in pregnant women which is a leading cause of complications in pregnancy.

Safer Skincare Alternatives for Expectant Mothers
To protect maternal health, Nigerian women should opt for safer options. Fortunately, natural and dermatologist-approved alternatives can help maintain healthy skin without risks. Some pregnancy-safe options:

Shea Butter – A deeply moisturizing, anti-aging and natural remedy for stretch marks. Acts as a natural sunscreen, has anti-inflammatory properties and improves skin elasticity.

Coconut Oil – highly moisturizing and deep hydration to soothe dry, itchy skin. Research suggests that it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It also promotes wound healing.

Aloe Vera – Helps with acne and skin irritation. Promotes wound healing and helps with sunburn relief.

Vitamin C, E serums, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide – A safer alternative to hydroquinone for brightening skin.

Fragrance-free and Paraben-free Products – Reduce the risk of skin irritation and hormone imbalance.

Regulatory challenge in Nigeria
In Nigeria, there’s a need for a stricter safety regulations and enforcement as the mix of well-regulated products and unregulated ones that contain harmful substances still flood the market. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, is responsible for the regulation of safe and quality cosmetic products, but enforcement remains a challenge. Many skin-lightening creams with banned ingredients still enters the market, putting women at risk. Hence, the need for increased consumer awareness and better access to identification of safe and quality products is pertinent especially for pregnant women.

Final thoughts
A glowing skin can be detrimental to your overall well-being, especially during pregnancy. Nigerian women need greater awareness of the potential dangers of certain skincare products. By choosing safer alternatives and advocating for stricter regulations, we can protect maternal health and ensure healthier futures for our babies. Before incorporating any skincare product into your routine during pregnancy, it is highly recommended to seek the expertise of a qualified healthcare professional. While maintaining healthy and radiant skin is important, the health of your baby should always be a top priority. Your skin deserves care, but your baby deserves the best. Choose wisely.

Ugbor, a pharmacist, lives in Lagos