Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and get some much-needed sunshine. However, for pregnant women, protecting their skin from the sun’s harmful rays is essential.

It’s important to choose a safe sunscreen that won’t harm the baby or the mother. With so many options on the market, it’s hard to know which ones are safe to use during pregnancy. In this article, we’ll explore the best sunscreens for pregnant women to use during the summer.

Why Sunscreen is Important During Pregnancy

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is always important, but it’s particularly crucial during pregnancy.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause an increase in pigmentation, making your skin more susceptible to sunburn and permanent damage. Prolonged exposure to the sun can also increase the risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen is the best defense against sun damage. It works by reflecting or absorbing the sun’s rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin. However, not all sunscreens are created equal.

Pregnant women need to be especially careful when selecting a sunscreen, as some ingredients can be harmful to the baby or the mother.

Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen During Pregnancy

When selecting a sunscreen, it’s essential to read the label and look for ingredients that are safe for use during pregnancy. Some ingredients to avoid include:.

Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone has been linked to hormone disruption and is a possible carcinogen. It can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, potentially harming both the mother and the baby.

Retinyl Palmitate

Retinyl Palmitate is a form of vitamin A that has been linked to birth defects when taken orally. Although the risk of birth defects from topical use is low, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid this ingredient during pregnancy.

Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles are tiny particles that can penetrate the skin and potentially harm the baby. To be safe, it’s best to avoid all sunscreens that contain nanoparticles during pregnancy.

Safe Sunscreen Ingredients for Pregnancy

When selecting a sunscreen for pregnancy, look for products that contain the following safe ingredients:.

Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide is a natural mineral that is safe for use during pregnancy. It works by physically blocking the sun’s rays and reflecting them away from the skin.

Zinc oxide is also effective against both UVA and UVB rays, making it an ideal choice for sun protection.

Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is another natural mineral that is safe for use during pregnancy. It works in a similar way to zinc oxide, reflecting the sun’s rays away from the skin. Titanium dioxide is also effective against both UVA and UVB rays.

Avobenzone

Avobenzone is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that is safe for use during pregnancy. It works by absorbing UVA rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin.

Avobenzone is often combined with other ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, for added sun protection.

Top Safe Sunscreens for Pregnant Women During Summer

Now that you know what to look for in a safe sunscreen, here are some of the best options for pregnant women:.

1. Badger Sunscreen

Badger Sunscreen is a natural, organic sunscreen that contains only safe ingredients. It’s mineral-based and contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for maximum sun protection.

It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it an ideal choice for swimming and other outdoor activities.

2. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen

Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen is another natural, organic option that is safe for use during pregnancy. It contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum sun protection. It’s also free of parabens, phthalates, and other harmful ingredients.

3. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen

Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen is specifically designed for sensitive skin, making it a great choice for pregnant women. It contains only natural, mineral-based ingredients, including zinc oxide.

Plus, it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

4. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen is a mineral-based sunscreen that contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for maximum sun protection. It’s also free of parabens and fragrances, making it safe for use during pregnancy.

Its unique “smart bottle” turns blue in the presence of harmful UV rays, reminding you to reapply sunscreen.

5. Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen

Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen is a broad-spectrum sunscreen that contains only safe, natural ingredients. It uses a combination of zinc oxide and other natural antioxidants to protect the skin from sun damage.

Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and reef-safe.

Conclusion

When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun during pregnancy, choosing a safe sunscreen is essential. Look for products that contain only safe, natural ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Avoid sunscreens that contain harmful ingredients, such as oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate. With the right sunscreen, you can enjoy the summer sunshine while keeping both you and your baby safe.