What Black Women Should Avoid While Pregnant

Pregnancy can be such an exciting and stressful 10 months (because let’s be honest, the whole “9 month” pregnancy thing is a lie). 

We all know how important nutrition is to the health and development of the baby. That’s why it’s so widely known that pregnant mothers should avoid things like lunch meat, sushi, soft cheeses, etc. 

But where in the “get ready for baby” and maternal nutrition handbooks does it list out what we should be avoiding in our skincare products? 

The truth of the matter is that the FDA (still) doesn’t have authority to implement an approval process for products on the market. So that means we don’t have any real safety net or guidance on who to trust for what is safe for our babies and ourselves during pregnancy. 

So, let me make a short list of the biggest offenders to avoid while you’re baking that lil bun in the oven. 

Parbanes & Phthalates  - they interfere with your hormone functions and can cause harm to your growing fetus. Think things like low birth rate, cancer & reproductive issues later in life. Watch for them in makeup, deodorants, toothpaste, shaving gels. 

Retinoids - can disrupt fetal development and influence birth defects, as well as liver toxicity. Look for them in lotions and anti-aging creams.

Hydroquinone - because a risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out by data & science. Watch for them in skin lightening creams, facial lotions and hair conditioner. 

Formaldehyde - increases the risk of fertility problems and miscarriage. Look in nail polish, hair gel, soaps, eyelash glue for this ingredient. 

Octinoxate & oxybenzone - this troublesome duo interferes with organ development. These can be found in foundation, lip balm and sunscreen.

Tricolsan  - this also messes with your body's natural hormone functions & is more often than not found in developing babes. Watch for this ingredient in antibacterial soap and body wash.

Okay, now that you know what to look for, to make your life easier use the Healthy Living App or the Think Dirty app to scan your current & potential products. 

Now is as good a time as any to choose safer. Remember, a healthier life starts with replacing just one product. 

I’m rooting for you!