Published on
updated on
Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Isabelle Gallay (dermatologist)
And
Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director)
Medical validation:
August 20, 2024
Heading to the seaside this summer? Be careful when choosing your sunscreen if you’re pregnant. Here’s advice from two experts to help you choose the right one.
All pregnant women know it: it is not recommended to expose yourself to the sun. However, sometimes it is unavoidable. In this case, how can you protect yourself effectively? Which sunscreen should you choose and what information should appear on the label? We asked Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo and Dr. Isabelle Galay, dermatologist.
Sunscreen: what elements should you take into account?
If no pregnant woman “should not expose himself to the sun” (otherwise you risk seeing the famous pregnancy spots appear), “When you have no choice, it is better to use a mineral cream”confides Dr. Galay.
Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreens (usually made from zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) form a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays.
They are therefore particularly intended for pregnant women and those with fragile skin.
“In case of melasma, I recommend choosing a tinted mineral cream containing iron and titanium oxides that correctly reflect visible light. With this product, pregnant women will be protected from all light: UVA, UVB, infrared, daylight and blue light”, advises the dermatologist.
Protection index, formula, texture and labels
When looking at sunscreen labels, what other criteria should you consider to protect yourself perfectly? There are many, reveals Dr. Gérald Kierzek, and yet they are all essential. When you are pregnant, you should pay particular attention to the following elements:
- L’protection index (SPF)“which must be high, ideally SPF50+, for optimal protection against UVA and UVB”, warns the doctor.
- Mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide), “to be preferred instead of chemical filters”, recommends the medical director of Doctissimo.
- Hypoallergenic formulas“fragrance-free and preservative-free to reduce the risk of allergies and irritations“, adds Dr Gérald Kierzek.
- The organic label. “Organic or naturally derived sunscreen should be favored to avoid potentially harmful synthetic ingredients. Either the organic label or certifications that guarantee the quality and safety of the product“, advises the specialist.
- The texture. “It must be light and non-greasy for comfort.“, advises the expert.
- A formula Waterproof. “The cream is therefore water-resistant for long-lasting protection on holiday”, says Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
- Charters and certifications. “Some products are specifically formulated or recommended for pregnant women (Pregnancy Compatibility Label). Applications such as Yuka or QuelCosmetic also allow you to check for the possible presence of substances to avoid during pregnancy.“, admits the doctor.
- The expiration date. “As always, it must not be expired.“, concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek.
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