Radiant Mama: Holistic & Organic Skincare for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are transformative seasons in a person’s life. Amidst the beauty and challenges, your body—and skin—are working overtime. Hormonal shifts can bring everything from that famous “pregnancy glow” to breakouts, dryness, hyperpigmentation, or sensitivity.
If you're someone who values holistic wellness and organic skincare, this is the perfect time to deepen your connection with what you put on your body. After all, your skin is your largest organ—and what goes on it matters, especially when you're growing and nourishing a new life.
Let’s explore how to care for your skin during this special time—safely, naturally, and soulfully.
1. Rethink Your Routine: Safety First
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, certain ingredients commonly found in mainstream skincare should be avoided. These include:
Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives) – linked to birth defects
Salicylic acid (in high doses) – may not be safe during pregnancy
Benzoyl peroxide – can cause skin irritation and systemic absorption
Essential oils – while many are safe, some (like clary sage or rosemary) may stimulate contractions or affect hormones
For a more in-depth look at ingredients to avoid during pregnancy, be sure to check out our blog 10 Toxic Ingredients to Avoid Putting On Your Skin.
Tip:
Check labels meticulously. When in doubt, consult your midwife or healthcare provider.
Use organic, cold pressed plant oils and botanical hydrosols.
2. Go Organic: What You Put On, You Absorb
Switch to organic, non-toxic skincare brands that use whole plant ingredients. These are not only safer for baby, but they’re often more nourishing for your skin long-term.
Look for:
Cold-pressed plant oils like jojoba, rosehip, almond, or argan
Botanical hydrosols like rosewater or chamomile
Gentle herbs like calendula, marshmallow root, or aloe vera
Natural butters such as shea and cocoa butter
Avoid synthetic fragrances, dyes, and preservatives like parabens or phthalates. We carry and highly recommend skincare products from Green Envee for their safety and efficacy during pregnancy.
Eat colorful foods loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats.
3. Nourish From the Inside Out
Holistic skincare is about more than what you slather on—it's also about how you nourish yourself internally. Hormones, digestion, hydration, and sleep all impact skin health.
Eat the rainbow. Focus on whole foods, leafy greens, and omega-3s.
Hydrate. Drink herbal teas (like nettle or raspberry leaf—if approved by your provider) and plenty of water.
Supplement wisely. Probiotics, collagen, and prenatal vitamins can support skin and body.
Get ahead of stretch marks with daily massage of rosehip oil and vitamin E.
4. Treat Common Skin Concerns Naturally
Stretch Marks
While genetics play a role, daily massage with rosehip oil, vitamin E, and shea butter can support elasticity and moisture. Vahati Herb Infused Healing Oil is a yummy option for your face and body during pregnancy. If stretch marks don't clear up postpartum, treatments such as microchanneling can be very helpful in improving the appearance of the skin.
Hormonal Acne
Increased hormone levels can wreak havoc for some people during pregnancy. Swap harsh acne treatments for mandelic acid serum, niacinamide serum and gentle cleansers that won’t overdry your skin. We recommend Mandelic Resurfacing Serum, Clear Repair Serum and Soothe Cleansing Cream, all from Green Envee. This trio of superheroes helps to calm, clear and heal hormonal acne breakouts.
Hyperpigmentation (Melasma)
Stay ahead of hyperpigmentation with ingredients such as licorice root extract, or natural vitamin C serums (made without synthetic ascorbic acid). Always wear a mineral SPF (zinc-based) if you’ll be in the sun. If hyperpigmentation (melasma) happens during pregnancy and doesn’t lighten up postpartum, treatments such as microchanneling can be very helpful in reducing the amount of pigmentation.
Be mindful that babies are exposed to what we put on our skin.
5. Breastfeeding-Safe Skincare
What you apply to your chest and breasts can transfer to your baby’s mouth. Keep it simple and edible-grade:
Apply a soothing, baby-safe product such as Motherlove Nipple Cream for cracked nipples
Avoid essential oils on or near the breasts
Wash hands after applying any skincare to avoid transferring it to baby
Make time for ritual and selfcare.
6. Lean Into Ritual, Not Just Routine
Pregnancy and postpartum are sacred times. Turn skincare into selfcare—a moment of calm in the chaos.
Light a candle
Gently massage your belly or face
Breathe in calming natural scents like lavender or frankincense (in moderation and if deemed safe)
Practice gratitude for your body, even as it changes
These small rituals not only benefit your skin—they support your nervous system and emotional well-being, too.
A Gua Sha facial is deeply relaxing and beneficial for your skin and nervous system.
7. Pamper Yourself Before Baby Arrives
We often get asked if it’s safe to get a facial during pregnancy. The answer is “yes”, starting after twelve weeks into the pregnancy (the same holds true for massage). As your belly grows we can easily support your comfort on our tables by sitting you more upright, along with supportive bolsters as needed, and adjusting the temperature of the table warmer. The products we use in our facials for pregnant clients are safe for mama and baby, and wonderfully supportive for the health of your skin.
We’re also here to help your skin recover postpartum - those hormonal changes can be challenging for our skin after the baby arrives, along with changes once menstruation returns and lactation ends.
In Closing: Trust Your Instincts
You are the gatekeeper of what enters your body and touches your skin. Pregnancy is an invitation to slow down and reconnect—with your intuition, your body, and the natural world.
Whether you're slathering on belly butter or sipping a cup of nettle tea, know that you’re not just caring for your skin—you’re creating a foundation of wellness for you and your baby.
Here's to glowing skin, a nourished spirit, and the beautiful journey ahead.