What are the most important ingredients to look for in a pregnancy-safe bodycare?
Hydrating ingredients are a good option for growing bumps. These include hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides and glycerin. Oils and butters such as coconut, shea and cocoa are also great.
Are there any specific areas that mums-to-be often overlook?
Due to the many hormonal changes during pregnancy, the skin can behave unpredictably and often is more sensitive. So it is best to moisturise your entire body to keep skin hydrated and the skin barrier supported.
One overlooked area actually is the feet, where, due to a growing belly, pressure on the lower legs and feet can cause swelling and discomfort. Elevating your skin and massaging with lotion can help with discomfort and promoting circulation.
Stretch marks are a common concern. Are there any tried-and-tested tips you recommend for minimising their appearance?
Stretch marks are largely genetic and unfortunately, it's not possible to prevent them completely. Staying hydrated and eating a nutrient-rich diet (rich in vitamin C and zinc) helps to support overall skin health. Keeping your skin moisturised may also minimise their appearance and there is some limited evidence ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and centella may help prevent stretch marks from developing.
Joonbyrd's best-selling Daydreamer firming serum is great for pregnancy bellies and has been clinically proven to help improve the appearance of stretch marks.
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Pregnancy can cause dry, itchy skin due to hormonal changes. What’s the best way to soothe and hydrate a growing bump?
Yes, in my clinical practice over the years, I have seen many pregnant women present with skin changes during pregnancy, itching and dryness being two of the most common. Staying well hydrated, eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and using hydrating skincare products are some of the best and easiest ways to care for a growing bump. Just the act of moisturising alone is amazing.
Beyond skincare, are there any self-care rituals you recommend for emotional well-being during pregnancy?
Prenatal yoga and massage are both great options, exercise and walks with friends, listening to your favourite music, all of these can help support emotional well-being during pregnancy.
How can expectant mums make their bump care routine a soothing and relaxing experience?
Set aside a little time for a self-care ritual, it can be a quick 5 minutes in the morning or a longer routine in the evening or on the weekends. Just the act of moisturising is a form of self-care and can be a moment to recharge. Your sense of smell can also change quite significantly due to hormonal fluctuations, so choose fragrances that appeal to you and set aside a few moments to indulge.
Self-care can be a challenge with a newborn. What are some quick, easy self-care practices new moms can adopt?
Stretching, napping when you can, messaging a friend, grabbing a healthy snack, and a decadent hand cream, all of these are little moments that add up throughout the course of a day, a week, or a month.
Are there any Joonbyrd products you recommend for a quick self-care ritual that can be done in under five minutes?
Absolutely! The great thing about a Joonbyrd routine is it can be as quick or as long as you'd like. Our Moon Swim Hydrating Body Wash is amazing for keeping skin soft and nourished, while our Daydreamer Firming Body Serum can be applied in under 30 seconds for a daily toning ritual. Add in our Heartwarmer Body Gua Sha to relax stressed muscles, improve lymphatic drainage and tighten skin.
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