Pregnancy brings many changes, and you may wonder if beauty treatments like lip injections, lash lifts, whitening strips, and piercings are safe while expecting. Here’s what you need to know to maintain your self-care routine during pregnancy.
Can I Get Lip Injections While Pregnant?
The Verdict: No, wait until after pregnancy.
Lip injections, typically made with hyaluronic acid (like Juvederm or Restylane), are a popular way to plump lips and smooth out wrinkles. But if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, hold off on injectables.
While there isn’t a direct study showing that lip injections are harmful during pregnancy, the general recommendation from most healthcare providers is to avoid them as the area is understudied, and the FDA has not approved getting lip injections during pregnancy or breastfeeding. In addition, pregnancy hormones can affect your skin’s elasticity, swelling of the lips and reaction to injectables, potentially leading to uneven results. Avoid them for now as there’s simply not enough research to definitively say if the procedure is completely safe for you or your baby.
Can I Get A Lash Lift While Pregnant?
The Verdict: Consult your medical provider.
A lash lift is a semi-permanent procedure that curls and lifts your natural lashes, giving them a fuller, more voluminous look. The process involves applying chemicals to the lashes to set the curl. Since the chemicals used are often strong, many women wonder if it’s safe during pregnancy.
The American Pregnancy Association generally advises to avoid unnecessary chemicals during this time, which is the main concern with lash lifts. Also under researched, the main concern lies in the chemicals used in the process, particularly if you’re sensitive to strong smells or prone to skin irritation. Some lash experts recommend avoiding lash lifts in the first trimester when your body is especially sensitive. If you do decide to go ahead with it, make sure to consult with a doctor first and inform the technician of your pregnancy, and ensure they use safe, high-quality products.
Alternative Idea: Individual lash extensions involving lash glue are also up for a debate as well due to the lack of research, the strong adhesives in the glue, and the concern with the amount of time spent lying on the back during application. However, after consulting with a medical provider, some say individual lash extensions are a recommended alternative to lash lifts as they contain less chemicals while providing a similar effect. Pregnancy-safe alternatives to lash lifts include lash serums with natural ingredients like castor oil to strengthen lashes, mascara (choose pregnancy-safe formulas), and eyelash curlers for a natural lift. False lashes (strip or individual) are also an option for added volume and length, as long as you apply them carefully. These methods enhance lashes safely during pregnancy without chemicals or treatments.
This mascara from Thrive Causemetics is a great choice!
Can I Get Botox While Pregnant?
The verdict: No, wait until after pregnancy.
Cosmetic injectables like Botox are classified as Category C, meaning the risks to pregnant women and babies are unknown. Since there’s no clear evidence proving their safety, it’s generally recommended to avoid them during pregnancy.
If you’re looking for wrinkle-free skin while pregnant, consider alternatives like moisturizing, using sunscreen, or following a gentle skincare routine. Always check with your doctor before making any decisions about cosmetic procedures during pregnancy.
Can I Use Whitening Strips While Pregnant?
The verdict: No, wait until after pregnancy.
Whitening strips, like Crest Whitestrips, are widely used to brighten teeth at home, but when you’re pregnant, you might wonder if they’re still safe to use.
While there is not yet conclusive evidence proving that whitening strips harm a fetus, many dentists and healthcare professionals recommend avoiding them during pregnancy. The primary concern comes from the hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in many teeth-whitening products. These chemicals are generally considered safe for most people, but during pregnancy, it’s better to be cautious.
If you’re really concerned about whitening your teeth, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist first. They might suggest alternatives or safer methods like professional whitening or simply focusing on regular brushing and flossing.
Alternative Ideas: Consider trying a natural home remedy to keep your teeth white in the meantime like these suggestions from Fox Creek Family Dental:
Strawberries: Mash strawberries into a paste and apply it to your teeth for about five minutes. The malic acid helps dissolve stains, but don’t leave it on too long to avoid enamel damage.
Baking Soda: This abrasive helps polish teeth. Make a paste with water and use it to brush away surface stains, though it has a salty taste.
Can I Get Piercings While Pregnant?
The verdict: No, wait until after pregnancy.
Whether it’s a belly button piercing, ear piercings, or any other body piercing, the general advice is to avoid getting new piercings while pregnant.
The main concern is the risk of infection, especially as your immune system is slightly weakened during pregnancy. If you were to get an infection, there is a possibility it could harm the baby through your bloodstream. Plus, your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, which can lead to slower healing times. For these reasons, it’s recommended to wait.
Alternative Idea: Consider having fun with clip-on earrings, jewelry, or false nose rings in the interim. It’s a great way to try out a piercing before you commit!
Final Thoughts
While the majority of beauty treatments, including lip injections, lash lifts, whitening strips, and piercings, aren’t outright dangerous during pregnancy, it’s always best to proceed with caution. Your body is undergoing so many changes, and what might have been safe before may not be the same during pregnancy. Speak with your healthcare provider before undergoing any cosmetic procedure or consider embracing your natural beauty.
Pregnancy is a time to prioritize your health and well-being, so if you’re uncertain about a procedure, it’s worth waiting until after the baby is born. Your beauty routine can always be re-started post-pregnancy, and your little one will be worth the wait.
Your Reproductive Health, Our Priority
Book low cost reproductive health services today at Obria Santa Ana