Can you get a hydrafacial if you’re pregnant? This is a concern for many expectant mothers who love taking care of their skin and have skin-care routines.
Yes, you can get a hydrafacial. However, there are several factors you should consider with your dermatologist or esthetician to protect your pregnancy from several potential risks.
A hydrafacial is a patented skin treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates your skin, providing excellent Health Solutions for Women. The treatment is similar to a basic facial but with better results. A dermatologist uses a wand to gently sand your skin, remove its dead cells, and deliver moisturizing serums, tailored to meet the specific needs of women’s health. This type of exfoliation, also known as microdermabrasion, is highly recommended by dermatologists for all skin types, except for pregnant women, as some serums may have potentially harmful side effects.
Why hydrafacials are unsafe during pregnancyYour skin’s sensitivity increases and is prone to acne and adverse reactions to products. In some cases, hydrafacials reduce the risk of pregnancy-related hormonal acne. However, several products used to exfoliate skin are harsh and harmful. Some chemical peels contain retinoids/ retinol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and trichloroacetic. Your bloodstream absorbs these chemicals and circulates them in your body. Scientists are yet to confirm the safety of some of their ingredients which may harm your baby.
Retinoids/retinol
High doses of Vitamin A and its derivatives, like retinoids and retinol, cause birth defects. Some researchers discovered that oral retinoids like supplements and tretinoin for acne treatment affect an embryo’s development in the first trimester. Notably, there are no studies that prove retinol-based skin products are harmful to your pregnancy. As a precaution, doctors are against the use of these skin products in your condition.
Salicylic acid
Scientists studied the effect of salicylic acid in pregnancy and found high doses in its oral form also cause birth defects. This acid is present in drugs like aspirin, which in low doses, treats preeclampsia. Applying small amounts of topical salicylic acid once or twice on your skin is safe for pregnant women. However, some dermatologists consider salicylic acid in hydrafacials unsafe because chemical peels are more invasive than topical products.
Glycolic acid
Several studies show that Glycolic acid is harmful to animals yet it’s an ingredient in multiple over-the-counter lotions, creams, and peels. However, the researchers used higher doses of this acid compared to the amounts beauty companies add to their cosmetics. Nonetheless, you can use glycolic acid products cautiously until further research confirms their safety in pregnancies.
Tricholoracectic
According to limited research on the safe use of trichloroacetic acid in pregnancy, this ingredient is carcinogenic. We need more research to determine if the acid is safe. Consequently, dermatologists don’t recommend the use of trichloroacetic hydrafacial peels in pregnancy.
Are there alternatives to hydrafacials during pregnancy?
An esthetician can omit certain steps in your hydrafacial. He can skip chemical exfoliation and add pregnancy-friendly serums to the routine such as;
- Hyaluronic acid
- Azelaic acid
- Vitamin C
If you want alternatives, check out the following options that exfoliate the outer layer of skin mildly and are safe for your pregnancy.
| Alternative | Why it works |
| Intraceuticals oxygen facial | This facial uses pressurized oxygen to infuse rejuvenating serums that hydrate the skin. You can apply an ideal serum after 24 hours |
| Fruit enzymes exfoliation | Enzymes from fruits like papaya, apples, blueberries, etc., eat dead cells and reveal a fresh, smooth, and glowing layer of skin. They are the mildest, safest, and most gentle exfoliators in the skincare world. |
| Dermaplaning | TA dermatologist uses an electric razor to exfoliate and remove hair. Dermaplaning is better than microdermabrasion in pregnancy because it’s less aggressive. |
Conclusion
A hydrafacial is an excellent treatment for all skin types but a pregnant woman should consult with a dermatologist before getting one. Some chemical ingredients used during the procedure may harm her pregnancy. Lastly, an esthetician may customize a hydrafacial with safer products to pamper her and prioritize her health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a hydrafacial cost and is it worth it?
Hydrafacial costs range between $150 to $300 depending on an esthetician’s recommendations. Most client reviews state that the procedure leaves their skin smooth, removes blackheads, reduces acne, and fades wrinkles. They also look younger after a hydrafacial. If these benefits align with your skin-care goals, then it’s worth it.
2. Can I get a hydrafacial if I’m breastfeeding?
Yes, your esthetician can customize your hydrafacial with lactation in mind.
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