During pregnancy, expecting mamas are often extra careful about their health and stuff they consume. Among many substances to consider are peptides, which are small chains of amino acids that play several roles in the body.
Peptides can be found in many foods. They are also manufactured as supplements or added to skin care products. They offer some perks like boosting collagen production to promote muscle growth and skin healing. While these can be helpful, they prompt a question during pregnancy: are they safe for mom and baby?
Are Peptides Okay To Consume While Pregnant?
There isn’t a general answer to the safety of peptides during pregnancy because it depends on the type, method of use and whether the pregnant woman is managing a pre-existing medical condition.
In fact, most sources might give you the go-ahead without explaining which peptide types to look out for. Though most are safe, there are a handful of peptides like Melanotan II, Botox, Jeauveau, Xeomin and Growth Hormone Releasing Peptides(GHRP) that can affect hormonal balances, hence are advised against during pregnancy.
That’s why we recommend that you consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before using peptide-infused products to ensure you and your baby are unscathed.
In general, natural peptides found in everyday food are considered safe and beneficial during pregnancy as they contribute to proper nutrition. However, for supplemental and cosmetic ones, it’s always, and I repeat, always necessary to tread with caution and seek professional advice.
Can I Use Peptides Externally When Pregnant?
Some peptide-infused creams are safe to use topically when combined with anti-ageing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C. However, the safety of using synthetic or supplemented peptides overall during pregnancy is not fully guaranteed. There could be risks that aren’t well understood.
For example, some peptides influence hormone levels and cellular signals, which are critical areas in pregnancy that you don’t want to disrupt without medical advice.
Additionally, peptides used in skincare products might seem harmless when used externally, but it’s important to have your attention drawn to the fact that your skin can absorb substances that could go a long way to affect your unborn baby.
And as such, your safer bet is to discuss with your doctor. Doctors would assess your current condition and determine whether to go ahead or give it a pause. They can also prescribe some safer ones to get.
Are Collagen Peptides Safe During Pregnancy?
Per our research, Collagen peptides are safe during pregnancy. This doesn’t mean you have to skip talking it over with your doctor first. For all we know, collagen is a protein that is typically found in our diet and it’s known to support skin, nail and hair health.
It can be valuable during pregnancy where skin resilience is important due to physical changes such as wear and tears on the joints as well as belly and breast expansion.
Are Ceramides As Safe As Peptides During Pregnancy?
Ceramides and peptides are usually used together in skincare products, including those marketed to improve skin moisture.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel gives pregnant women the green light to use ceramides, and we second it. We know hormonal changes in pregnancy could make you so dry and pale; thus, incorporating this into your skincare routine can keep you nourished and healthier.
Alternatives To Peptides During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is when your skin needs your attention the most, why, because the hormonal changes literally hit it hard. But this doesn’t also mean to use any product at all. It is very important to choose only ones marked pregnancy-safe.
If you’re showing allergies to peptides or your doctor advised you to stay off, then there are other options to help get back that glow. Let’s explore them:
- Hyaluronic Acid: This is a powerful pregnancy-safe moisturizer that can prevent skin from desiccating while making it plump. Worried about aging and fine lines? Hyaluronic acid is a brilliant choice for reducing these and keeping your skin soft.
- Vitamin C: C vitamin can help pigmentation that sometimes occur during pregnancy known as the mask of pregnancy. It fights free radicals and helps collagen production, giving your skin a radiant glow.
- Glycerin: This is gentle and safe for expecting moms as well. It pulls water into the outer layer of your skin from deeper levels. It also pulls in air to help keep the skin moisturized.
- Ceramides: As I mentioned earlier, ceramides help restore blockage of skin pores, keeping moisture in and bad elements out. They are particularly to treat dry and oversensitive skin during pregnancy.
- Zinx oxide: If you’re concerned about UV rays and sunburns, then zinc oxide can offer the physical sunscreen ingredient that will protect you. It’s found in mineral sunscreens and Pregnant women can safely use it.
- Oils: Natural oils like coconut, almond and argan are great to keep your skin moisturized too. This can prevent stretch marks and heal dry skin. Moreover, these are generally safe but it’s ideal to perform a patch test first or check in with your doctor to confirm safeness.
Are Collagen Peptides Safe During Pregnancy – Final Say
When it comes to peptides during pregnancy, it’s best to exercise caution. While they are widely known for their ability to repair and revitalize the skin, there isn’t sufficient information to fully guarantee their safety in pregnancies.
And for this, many pregnant women tend to avoid it and choose well-studied, safe alternatives like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. These can maintain a nourished and hydrated skin without any risks.
Always discuss with your doctor before trying any new skincare product at this time to ensure you remain totally safe and healthy with your baby.
