Take a look at our top pregnancy-safe sunscreen picks just in time for the weather to hot up and roll into the great British summer.

Pregnancy brings with it many things to be excited about and more things to be conscious about, with changes to your skin and possible sensitivity being high on the list of concerns for many mothers-to-be. As the body undergoes significant changes, the skin becomes more sensitive to the effects of the sun, meaning you could be more likely to burn. Though not all sunscreens are created equal, especially when it comes to being pregnancy-safe. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of choosing the right sunscreen and provide a list of our top 8 pregnancy-safe sunscreens available in the UK.

The Importance of Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreen

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make the skin more reactive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn and melasma, often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.” This makes effective sun protection more crucial than ever. However, many common sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have raised concerns due to their potential hormonal effects. Instead, mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are recommended. These ingredients sit on the surface of the skin, forming a barrier against the sun without the risk of absorption into the bloodstream.

Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen During Pregnancy

When shopping for sunscreen, pregnant women should avoid certain chemicals such as avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate and oxybenzone are best avoided. Some of these components have been linked to hormonal disruptions, however the studies were small. To be safe it’s best to avoid these ingredients and instead look for mineral based sunscreen.

Our Top 8 Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreens

Here’s a rundown of the top 8 sunscreens that are safe for pregnancy, ensuring that you can enjoy the sun without worrying about harmful chemicals:

  1. Badger – SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen Cream This sunscreen offers simple and effective protection with only five ingredients, centered around non-nano zinc oxide. It’s water-resistant for at least 40 minutes and fragrance-free, making it a perfect choice for sensitive skin.
  2. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ Renowned for its gentle formulation free from harmful chemicals, Thinkbaby provides high SPF protection and is easy to apply, staying effective even on the most active days.
  3. Green People Scent Free Sun Lotion SPF 30 Specially formulated for ultra-sensitive skin, this lotion uses natural antioxidants to enhance skin protection and is both scent-free and gentle on the skin.
  4. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 With its naturally-sourced zinc oxide, this hypoallergenic formula is suitable for pregnant women looking for high-level protection from UVA and UVB rays.
  5. Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Pregnancy Safe Sunscreen Lotion This lightweight and non-greasy formula is made with zinc oxide and is ideal for daily use, providing effective protection without irritating the skin.
  6. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen – Sensitive SPF 30+ Recommended for sensitive skin, this mineral sunscreen is free from chemical active ingredients and is designed to protect without causing skin irritation.
  7. Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk SPF30 Provides natural sun protection with 100% mineral filters. This sunscreen is easy to apply, provides effective coverage, and avoids harsh chemicals, perfect for sensitive skin.
  8. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 A blend of ceramides, zinc oxide, and hyaluronic acid helps protect the skin barrier while providing necessary hydration and UV protection.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen During Pregnancy

When choosing a sunscreen, consider factors like your skin type, any known allergies, and personal preference for texture and fragrance. Opt for products that offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and are water-resistant if you plan to swim or sweat. It’s also important to apply a generous amount of sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Choosing the right sunscreen during pregnancy doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right information and a list of vetted products, you can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure these products align with your specific health needs and to discuss any skin changes during pregnancy.

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