Just because a woman is pregnant does not mean you have to stop caring for your appearance. If you are accustomed to undergoing dermatological treatments, such as chemical peels, and become pregnant, you may wonder if you can continue these treatments during your pregnancy. Because topical treatments and what you ingest can affect your growing baby, it's important to discuss the safety of these treatments with your physician.
Significance
A chemical peel is a dermatological procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to an area of the skin to reduce wrinkles, acne, sun damage or other skin imperfections, according to the University of Virginia Health System. Although the peels are commonly applied to the face, other areas of the skin, including the neck, chest and arms, also may benefit from a chemical peel application.
Types
Chemical peels typically fall within some variation of three categories. These include alpha hydroxy acids, which include glycolic, lactic or fruit acids that can reduce wrinkles and even out skin discolorations, according to the University of Virginia Health System. Trichloractic acid, or TCA, is a milder acid that can reduce fine wrinkles and correct pigment. Phenol peels are deeper forms of chemical peels that penetrate into the layers of skin underneath the epidermis in order to correct blotchiness and to smooth out wrinkles.
Considerations
A pregnant woman may consider utilizing a chemical peel for a number of reasons. First, during pregnancy, a woman's hormones may stimulate an excess production of oil that results in greater breakouts. Because chemical peels can be effective at treating acne blemishes, they may be an option for some women. Also, some mothers may use chemical peels to appear more youthful and minimize the occurrence of wrinkles or even scarring due to previous acne occurrences.
Warning
According to DocShop.com, women who are pregnant are not considered to be good candidates for a chemical peel. Whatever the benefits, it's important to remember that what expectant moms put on and in their bodies can affect their babies, according to BabyCenter.com. The materials, such as glycolic acid, placed on the skin can enter the bloodstream and affect a growing baby.
Solution
While the effects of chemical peels to an unborn child are largely untested, the potential for absorption into the blood may make chemical peels a danger for expectant mothers. Additionally, because an expectant mom's body chemistry may make her skin more sensitive, the common aftereffects of a chemical peel, such as dryness, irritation and redness may be exaggerated in pregnant mothers. Therefore, a solution would be to wash your face with a mild soap and discuss other treatments, such as lotions, with your physician before using on the face. Following pregnancy and breastfeeding, you should be able to resume receiving chemical peels.
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