Is It Safe To Get Facials During Pregnancy?

Don't ignore the safety measures while self-pampering during pregnancy.

Reviewed by Regina Kincaid, RM, IBCLC Regina Kincaid Regina KincaidRM, IBCLC MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on TwitterFollow MomJunction on LinkedinFollow MomJunction on YouTube Specialty: Breastfeeding & LactationExperience: 4 years
Written by , M.Tech (Biotechnology) Anshuman Mohapatra M.Tech (Biotechnology) Follow MomJunction on LinkedinFollow MomJunction on Twitter Specialty: Pregnancy and HealthExperience: 6 years
Edited by , BSc Rebecca Malachi BSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pregnancy, Health and WellnessExperience: 12 years
Fact-checked by , MSc Aneesha Amonz MSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 2 years
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A pregnant lady doing a facial

Most facials during pregnancy are safe. However, choose esthetic services with caution since the skin undergoes several changes in pregnancy. Although you may have a pregnancy glow with rosy cheeks at some point during pregnancy, dry or oily skin and acne breakouts are common among pregnant women due to hormonal changes. Hyperpigmentation and dark circles are also common.

Knowing what beauty treatments are safe during pregnancy may help expecting moms deal with skin problems and bring back skin sensitivity, skin hydration, skin elasticity, and skin rejuvenation. Read on to learn about the safe and effective beauty treatments and facials for regular beauty salon visitors during pregnancy.

In This Article

Getting a Facial During Pregnancy

Since every woman wants to look her best during this most important phase in her life, she should take special care of her skin and hygiene

. However, the health and well-being of the tiny life that’s growing within remains topmost in every expectant mother’s mind. Let’s look at some of the things you need to know about facials and pregnancy, starting with why they can be great for you:

  1. They’re relaxing and refreshing.
  2. You look like a million dollars.
  3. The compliments pour in and help you ignore the minor discomforts of pregnancy.
  4. Minor skin eruptions and rashes can be taken care of.
  5. Salon treatments and relaxation techniques can enhance sleep.
protip_icon Quick tip
Mix one teaspoon of milk and honey. Apply to face, leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off for hydrated, soft, supple skin.

Is A Facial Safe During Pregnancy?

Leading dermatologists and beauticians recommend that in general, a basic facial, without the use of harsh chemicals, heat treatments and long-drawn out massages, is quite safe. In fact, if you’re looking for a relaxing and refreshing time, a gentle DIY facial can make you feel and look great.

However, it’s important to know that your skin absorbs all the chemicals that are applied to it; these can enter the bloodstream and ultimately your baby’s bloodstream too. Many salon treatments, to combat rashes or, skin discolorations are chemical based and may contain different combinations of benzoyl peroxideiAn FDA-approved topical medication used for the treatment of acne. , salicylic acid, retinoidsiChemical compounds derived from vitamin A that are used to treat skin diseases. , etc. Though these may take care of your skin problems, pregnancy facials do have an impact on your baby’s health.

What Should Be Avoided At This Time?

Electric currents, extracting black-heads/tightening pores, light therapy, chemical peelsiA procedure that uses a chemical solution to remove the topmost layer of the skin and enhance its texture and appearance. , dermabrasioniA surgical procedure that scrapes the outermost layer of the skin to give it a smooth appearance. , plastic surgery, long massage sessions, heat and steam treatments should be the big no-no’s on your list while you’re pregnant.

Today, many salons advertise the fact that they use only “natural” or “organic” products. While this is certainly a better option, these products could cause skin allergies or discomfort. Some organic moisturizers contain soya-based ingredients which have estrogen-like effects and these are especially hazardous during the early trimesters.

Tips To Have A Safe Facial During Pregnancy

If you’re looking for a soothing, relaxing and calming experience, a basic facial can certainly give you that feeling of being pampered. The caveat is to be aware of what skincare products are being used and what kind of treatments you’re going in for.

  1. While making the appointment at your beauty salon, mention that you’re pregnant.
  2. Talk to your doctor and visit only a high-quality, reliable beautician in a clean, hygienic and safe salon.
  3. If it’s your first post-pregnancy facial, talk to the salon manager before-hand. Inform the staff who will be attending on you about your condition., especially if you are breastfeeding.
  4. Get a complete list of the products and ingredients.
  5. Discuss/understand the types of treatments.
  6. Firmly refuse: chemicals, harsh treatments, electric currents, light therapies, intensive massages etc.
  7. If you find your instructions not being adhered to, stop the treatment at once.
  8. Never use any skin-lightening agents or retinoid/salicylic acidiOrganic compounds used in treating acne and other skin conditions by exfoliating the skin and clearing pores. containing products. Use only very mild bleaching agents or hair-removal creams.

protip_icon Quick tip
Use sunscreen to protect the skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Sunscreens have been used to treat/manage melasma during pregnancy without any adverse effects (1).

Most pregnant women love the feeling of being pampered in a beauty salon and the attention and good vibes showered on them. With a little care and caution, facials during pregnancy can be quite safe and enjoyable.

Share your experiences with salon facials.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get a facial with essential oils during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it’s not advisable to use undiluted essential oils on the skin or have a facial using them. These oils can lead to severe irritation or allergies. Caution is necessary when using essential oils; seek medical advice if any concerns arise (2).

2. Can I get a facial with glycolic acid during pregnancy?

Glycolic acid peels have limited dermal penetration, making them generally safe during pregnancy. However, insufficient cosmetics safety data are available. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before getting a facial with glycolic acid during pregnancy (3).

3. Can I get a facial with radiofrequency therapy during pregnancy?

No, radiofrequency therapy is not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential risks and contraindications (4).

Infographic: Things To Remember When Having A Facial During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive than before. Additionally, many chemicals used in skincare products may cause harm to the mother and the fetus. Therefore, you must be careful of undergoing skin care treatment, including facials. Look through the infographic below to learn some safety tips you should follow when getting a facial during pregnancy.

considerations for getting a safe facial during pregnancy (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Pregnant women can safely enjoy facials to feel refreshed and relaxed.
  • It is important to avoid harsh chemicals, heat treatments, long massages, electric currents, light therapy, and plastic surgery during pregnancy.
  • Make sure to inform the salon staff if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid any specific treatments.
  • Be aware that natural or organic products may cause allergic reactions or discomfort.

Pregnant? Wondering if you can still get a facial? Watch this video to find out if it’s safe, some precautions, and how your skin changes during pregnancy.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Safety of skincare products during pregnancy.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3114665/
  2. Is it safe to use products containing essential oils during pregnancy?
    https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org/leaflets-a-z/menthol/
  3. A review of the safety of cosmetic procedures during pregnancy and lactation.
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352647517300059?via%3Dihub
  4. Skin rejuvenation by radiofrequency therapy: methods, effects and risks
    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1610-0387.2008.06780.x
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Regina Kincaid
Regina KincaidRM, IBCLC
Regina qualified as a midwife in 2005 in Germany and has since worked in maternity care in England and Ireland. She achieved stage 1 of the UNICEF Baby Friendly accreditation as infant feeding lead midwife at Ealing Hospital in London and worked in the lactation team of the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin, Ireland.

Read full bio of Regina Kincaid
Anshuman Mohapatra
Anshuman MohapatraM.Tech (Biotechnology)
Anshuman Mohapatra is a biotechnology scientist with more than six years of research experience in analytical chemistry and biotechnology. He has submitted his PhD thesis at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) and served as a research fellow (JRF/SRF) during his PhD tenure.

Read full bio of Anshuman Mohapatra
Rebecca Malachi
Rebecca MalachiBSc
Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

Read full bio of Rebecca Malachi
Aneesha Amonz
Aneesha AmonzMSc
Aneesha holds a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from USTM, Meghalaya and Master’s degree in Applied Microbiology from VIT, Vellore. With two years of experience, she has worked on different research projects in the field of Food Sciences.

Read full bio of Aneesha Amonz