If you’ve ever had a friend, family member, or favorite fiction character who got pregnant, no doubt you’re familiar with the magical skin phenomena known as “The Glow.” An impossible to pin down combination of luminous, rosy, and something along the lines of vivacious, The Glow transforms pregnant people into near-ethereal beauties with luscious, bombshell hair and flawless skin. You know, in theory.

In reality, pregnancy and skin aren’t always BFFs. In fact, there are some particular skin issues that are actually brought on and exacerbated by having a bun in the oven (as if morning sickness wasn’t enough.) To make matters worse, treating skin conditions while pregnant can be a battle, as many traditional skin treatments could have potential side effects or possibly be dangerous for fetuses. All is not lost, though. With a little know-how and the right techniques, it is possible to get through your pregnancy without totally wrecking your complexion.

Pimples during pregnancy

One of the big Glow-demolishing issues that often comes along with pregnancy is acne. Hormones play a huge role in the development and control of different types of acne (that’s why the menstrual cycle is also such a breakout culprit) and, as you might have heard, when you’re busy making a tiny human inside of you, your body is also busy producing hormones at new and exciting levels.

In particular, an influx of androgens like progesterone can contribute to both an increase in hormonal cystic acne (those painful under-the-skin bumps) and extra sebum production (oh yay, more oil.) Oilier skin combined with the fact that most doctors recommend discontinuing use of chemical exfoliating products and boom, you’ve got more blackheads and whiteheads, and in turn, more inflamed surface-level zits to combat. The miracle of life, right?

“Most acne medications, including some over the counter products, have not been proven to be safe in pregnancy and it’s usually recommended that expecting moms avoid those products,” says dermatologist Susan Bard. That means go-tos like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are out.

So your face has decided to go back to high school, but your usual blemish banishers are a no-go. What can you do?

“There are some prescription products that are proven safe,” says Bard. She recommends having a chat with your doctor about treatments featuring azelaic acid, sulphur, or clindamycin, though she warns that these often aren’t as potent a fix as the acne-fighters you’re used to. For added zit-protection, she often suggests using red or blue light therapy to fight inflammation and kill off acne-causing bacteria at and below the surface level without breaking out the chemicals (or your face.) To tackle whiteheads, pimple patches are a safe go-to! We recommend The Klog Soft Shield Pimple Patches.

It’s also important to find a baby-safe way to slough off those dead skin cells that can trap oil and dirt inside your pores. Your best option out there is to use mild physical exfoliation. Bard recommends investing in a facial brush which can help sweep away dead skin and dirt, but other non-irritating choices, like the Erborian Charcoal Konjac Sponge, which includes charcoal to pull dirt and oil out of pores more effectively, or the naturally exfoliating green tea leaves in the Neogen Real Fresh Green Tea Cleansing Stick are also good options. The key is to go gentle; over scrubbing can damage your lipid barrier and leave your skin inflamed.

Skin tags

Another less expected skin issue that can also crop up among the pregnant set are skin tags. If you’ve never had one before, a skin tag is a small benign growth of (you guessed it!) skin, usually about the size of a pinhead, that can look similar to the mole without the extra pigment. About one in four people in the world develop them naturally, but pregnancy can up those odds significantly.

Doctors still aren’t sure exactly what causes skin tags to form, although there does appear to be both a hormonal and genetic component; they generally run in families and are most common in people over 60, people who are pregnant, and those who are on a steroid regimen. Friction also seems to play a role, since skin tags are most common on spots like the underarms, groin, and eyelids: AKA spots where your skin tends to rub against itself.

Unfortunately, the lack of definitive data also means that there’s no clinically proven way to ward off skin tags, though there’s some anecdotal evidence to suggest that applying a talc-free powder to friction-prone areas may help. The good news is that there’s nothing wrong with skin tags, and as long as they don’t bother you there’s no medical reason that you need to do anything about them at all.

If the look or feel of them gets on your nerves, they’re generally easy to remove. The internet is full of home remedies for eliminating the tiny growths (like tying a string around it to cut off the blood supply), but by far the fastest and safest method of ridding yourself of skin tags is a quick trip to the dermatologist who can remove them with a scalpel or surgical scissors in just a few seconds, with far less likelihood of leaving unsightly marks behind.

Impressive as creating a new life can be, pregnancy presents its own unique challenges. While we may not be able to help you solve that whole baby name quandary, there’s no need to suffer through irritating skin issues. Now get out there and enjoy that Glow.

+How have you changed your skin care routine during pregnancy? Let us know below!

The post The 2 Skin Care Issues No One Talks About When You’re Pregnant appeared first on The Klog.

“While you’re pregnant, and also during breastfeeding, you need to make some adjustments to your beauty routine,” says Neil Sadick of Sadick Dermatology. It’s just a part of the package, and a very important one at that. Your skin is actually the largest organ in your body, so it’s especially important to be conscientious of what you apply on it while you are pregnant.

But fear not! There are plenty of safe and effective ingredients that you can use to maintain your signature pregnancy “glow.” Here, we  debunk myths and break down the list of the worst and best products for your pregnancy skin care routine.

The myths about pregnancy and skin care:

Pregnancy is a wonderful time but it can also be scary with all of the information floating around out there about what you can and cannot safely do, and as many pregnant women know, this extends to skin care.

“The biggest myth is that all products are dangerous,” says Sadick. “While there are several ingredients to avoid, there are myriad of products that are absolutely safe. It’s very important to protect your skin from sun damage and keep it hydrated and well-nourished during pregnancy.”

Annie Chiu of The Derm Institute debunks another popular myth out there: The one that says if it’s an “organic” or “all-natural” skin care product, then it will be OK. “That is actually untrue because whether a product is labeled as ‘natural’ or not, if it has not been studied on pregnant women extensively, you can never say it is considered ‘safe during pregnancy,” says Chiu. Therefore, the product actually falls under the “we are not sure” category, due to lack of studies. “As long as there is awareness of this, I encourage discussions of skin care ingredients between expectant mothers and their dermatologists as well as their OB-GYN physician,” says Chiu.

Another myth according to Chiu? The “if the product’s available at the drug store, it must be safe” one. “If you look at the fine print, even most OTC products, including benzoyl peroxides and salicylic acids, which are common OTC skincare ingredients, typically advise you to discuss with a physician during pregnancy,” she says. “There are actually very few ‘proven via studies’-safe ingredients, but they include vitamin C and glycolic acids.”

If your skin is more sensitive, another pregnancy safe option is the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Serum. Both of these serums are great for brightening skin and combating dry patches.

The safety of different products is not the only concern in an expecting mother’s skin care regimen—there’s also the preventative and restorative measures taken for those annoying stretch marks. Another myth, according to Dr. Sadick, is the famous “cocoa butter stretch mark cure.”

According to Dr. Vivian Bucay, of Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics, “One of the biggest misconceptions is that stretch marks can be prevented by moisturizing alone. A stretch mark is a tear in the dermis (deeper layer of skin) that occurs when the skin stretches too quickly. While dry skin can be more easily traumatized, if there is a genetic tendency for stretch marks or weight gain is too fast, no amount of cream or oils will stop a stretch mark from happening.” Sadick adds,  “There are several options to eradicate [stretch marks], such as fillers, lasers or radiofrequency.”

The pregnancy skin care ingredient don’ts:

Let’s cut right to the chase… 

The definitive list of NO’s: Retinol, hydroquinone, avobenzone, oxybenzone, parabens, ammonia, phthalates, dihydroxyacetone, and tazarotene.

(Helpful hint: some of these ingredients come in other forms and other names, but if the long ingredient name on the bottle contains one of the names, it’s probably a variant so either ask your derm or avoid that product to be on the safe side.)

“Avoid retinol-containing products at all costs as they are known teratogens,” says Sadick. “Retinol can be found in anti-aging creams (typically night creams) or anti-acne creams. Safe alternatives are products that contain azelaic acid, erythromycin, or clindamycin. Glycolic acid peels are also safe, and salicylic acid/benzoyl peroxide is safe in moderation.”

Most of the reasoning behind ingredients to stay away from is the lack of FDA testing on women who are pregnant with these particular ingredients. Dr. Bucay explains “As a rule, pregnant women should avoid vitamin A acid products, including retinol, retinoic acid (Retin A), tazarotene (Tazorac), adapalene (Differin), which are used for acne and/or signs of sun damage. Another compound to avoid is salicylic acid, which is a beta hydroxy acid used to treat acne and brown spots.”  Chiu says, “It is likely that most of these products don’t have enough absorption to be problematic, but because the potential of risk versus the cosmetic benefits, it is best to avoid them during pregnancy.”

Retinoids, as most people know, are kind of a lifesaver in an anti-aging regimen. So what’s a mom-to-be to do? The good news is there are tons of other options out there that can be just as effective, and totally safe. In addition to vitamin C being a great component in any anti-aging routine, ingredients like citric acid and white truffle can keep your skin plump and wrinkle-free.

Two products I use in my daily routine that are safe for pregnancy are the Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Toner and the Solved Skincare 100% Organic Golden Jojoba Oil. 

“Hydroquinone is another common ingredient in skin care, particularly in skin brightening/lightening creams, but it may be associated with birth defects so it’s best avoid it,” says Sadick. “Safe alternatives to treat pigmentation issues during pregnancy are alpha hydroxyl acids, found in peels or cream.” 

“Avobenzone and oxybenzone, commonly found in sunscreens, are not recommended in pregnancy,” says Sadick. “Products with zinc oxide are considered much more effective and safe.” Luckily, Thank You Farmer’s Safe Sun Fluid AGE 0880 SPF50+ PA++++ is free of those ingredients and completely safe to use. This SPF protectant, which happens to be another personal favorite of the Klog team, is super rich with niacinamide and centella asiatica extract. 

Sadick adds: “Other ingredients to avoid are parabens, ammonia, phthalates, dihydroxyacetone—these are found in several products from hair dyes to nail polishes and self-tanners. Although there is no evidence they cause harm to the fetus or baby, some animal studies have shown there is potential for teratogenicity, so best be safe than sorry.”

The ingredient dos:

As mentioned before, a big misconception about pregnancy and skin care is that you are limited from all the good stuff for nine months. But there’s actually a ton of stuff out there that is not only safe, but really good for skin when your body is going through pregnancy.

But don’t fret if you don’t naturally have the famous pregnancy glow. “Another myth is regarding the ‘pregnancy glow,'” says Sadick. “While some women find their skin is radiant, others experience dryness and breakouts that needs to be addressed with appropriate skin care.” And that’s totally fine and normal, and doesn’t mean you can’t find you pregnancy glow through great skin care.

Glycolic acid is a safe and gentle ingredient for women who are pregnant, and it’s great for fighting acne and breakouts. So if you happen to be experiencing a pregnancy-induced breakout, try switching up your cleanser and be sure to follow up with a really good moisturizer if you are also dry skin prone.

Bottom line:

Being proactive about safety when your pregnant is super important. Carefully checking labels and consulting with your derm are great ways to ensure you get the best skin care, with the least risk. However there are a lot of myths out there, so be sure to do your homework and know that being pregnant doesn’t mean giving up great skin care!

The post The Skin Care Ingredients You Shouldn’t Use When You’re Pregnant appeared first on The Klog.

The Klog: What’s your current pregnancy-safe skin care routine and which products are you loving right now?

Mika: I start my skin care routine by washing my face with Sioris Day by Day Cleansing Gel Two to three times per week I like to exfoliate with Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Skin Brightening Exfoliator.
My skin type is dry so maintaining moisture in my skin, especially during the winter, is really important to me. That’s why Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner, Son Reve Tri-Bio Treatment Essence, A By Bom Ultra Time Return Eye Serum and Melixir Plant-Based Squalane Face Oil are my current holy grail products. These products make my face look brighter and feel smoother and when I feel that my skin looks good, it brings me joy and makes me feel ready to take on my day. 
In the evening, I prefer not to use heavy moisturizers, so I’ll use the squalane face oil on my face, decolletage, and hair before going to sleep.  In the daytime, I’ll use the squalane face oil again followed by Make P:rem Safe Me. Relief Moisture Cream mixed with a UV essence. 

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A post shared by Mika, The SeoulChild (@theseoulchild) on Nov 17, 2019 at 5:42am PST

During your pregnancy, what changes have you made to your skin care routine?

My skin care routine is pretty much the same to what it was before I was pregnant. When I learned I was pregnant, I researched pregnancy-safe skin care and a lot of the products I was using daily I could continue to use. I had already been moving towards using more vegan and clean skin care products and I continue to use many of these items in my skin care routine.
The biggest change was stopping using retinoids. As I was approaching my mid-30s, I had begun using retinoids in my skin care routine and I was starting to see differences in my skin that I liked. As soon as I got into them, I got pregnant and had to stop using them. 

Have you noticed any changes in your skin over the last few months? 

Absolutely. In my first trimester, I had the “pregnancy glow” that people talk about. Then I hit my second trimester and I noticed I was getting breakouts mainly on my chin and also on my nose. And I had them once in a blue moon before, but now it seems like every time I get rid of a breakout I get another one.

What pregnancy skin care tips have you learned from friends, family, doctors, skin care experts, etc?

The biggest skin care tip I’ve received during pregnancy is to get a stretch mark cream for my stomach. My mom advised me to do a lot of research to make sure the cream I chose contained non-harmful ingredients. The cream I’m using is Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Massage Cream For Stretch Marks, which contains ingredients like pure cocoa butter and shea butter. 
I am a very laid-back person when it comes to skin care. I love taking care of my skin, but I don’t take skin care trends too seriously. What feels good on my face, is convenient, and is healthy for my skin is what I like. And if other people have good things to say about the products, then that is a plus. 
I also love doing research so I’ve read articles on pregnancy-safe skin care on The Klog and Into the Gloss. I like learning about skin care and I want to try my best to maintain healthy skin for myself and to model that for my daughter as well. 

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A post shared by Mika, The SeoulChild (@theseoulchild) on Apr 26, 2019 at 5:18am PDT

Living in Seoul, you have access to a lot of great skin care and spa treatments. Which treatments have you been enjoying during pregnancy? 

At least once per month I visit Cimer Aqua Spa and Jjimjil Spa at Paradise City Resort in Incheon, just outside of Seoul. A typical visit includes renting a chaise lounge by one of the pools, swimming, resting in the water, and eating. While the heated rooms in the jjimjilbang are off-limits during pregnancy, I like to relax in their cool and unheated rooms.

As far as skin care treatments, I’ve always had problems with blackheads on my nose, so I’ve been getting an aqua peel about twice per month to clean my pores. Plus, I find it very relaxing.
I’ve also been enjoying prenatal massages one to two times per month. During pregnancy your body changes and you can experience new physical pains. I talked with my doctor about this and he recommended prenatal massages. These have been wonderful at relieving muscle tension in my back, as well as joint pain.

The post A Seoul-Based Blogger Shares Her Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Routine appeared first on The Klog.

For someone who has now reached 39 weeks, I can now say that pregnancy was more eye-opening and transformative than I could have ever imagined. It’s pretty incredible that in less than a year, I’ve literally created a whole nervous system, with functioning organs and a pair of eyeballs, too. Sometimes it’s still hard to believe that there is a tiny human being inside of me that can breathe, blink and suck on her thumb– until that is, reality hits when she suddenly kicks me hard in the gut! 

Luckily, pregnancy has been relatively smooth for me. I didn’t have morning sickness, bleeding gums, food aversions, or fatigue. I did however have to deal with a lot of pain and discomfort when sleeping from the extra weight pressing down on my spine, and my hands and fingers are often so sore and bloated that it’s often uncomfortable using them (especially in the mornings). And of course, there have been some interesting changes to my skin that even I didn’t expect!

Now that I am just days away from my maternity leave, I took the time to share my thoughts and advice on what worked (and what did not work) for my skin. Luckily, I was able to navigate these new skin challenges with my good friend and dermatologist Dr. Claire Chang of Union Square Dermatology, who also recently became a mom this year too!

Acne

About 6 months before I got pregnant, I finally solved my issues with hormonal acne. I was on the road to recovery, with some leftover hyperpigmentation to gently fade away with vitamin C treatments. Once I found out I was pregnant though, I was worried that pregnancy could make my hormones go wild, and undo all the hard work I’d done to get clear skin.

I spoke to Dr. Chang about what products and ingredients she recommended to prevent and treat acne. She recommended forgoing any high percentages of chemical exfoliant treatments, such as salicylic acid, and instead opt for more natural ingredients such as tea tree extracts and green tea. There’s nothing concrete in research or studies that chemical exfoliants can impact the fetus, but the general rule of thumb is that it is better to be safe than sorry.

What was key for me throughout the 9 months was to use a facial moisturizer that would be lightweight and suited for the summer weather, so I wouldn’t clog any pores while giving my skin barrier the nourishment and hydration it needed. I relied on the Neogen Joan Day and Night Cream, which has green tea and vitamin C. I especially loved the soothing lavender scent. It has one side that is more lightweight in texture and one that is a bit thicker. I used the thicker texture as a moisturizer at night, and sometimes even for my body as well, especially the belly area. 

As an additional treatment step, from time to time I used the Benton Tea Tree Serum in areas where I would usually break out. And I’m happy to report that I didn’t have to deal with any breakouts my entire pregnancy!

Body – Stretch Marks

Dr. Chang told me that one of the biggest skin concerns that most pregnant women have is the fear of getting stretch marks from your growing belly area. I truly believe stretch marks can be worn with pride as a sign of what amazing wonders your body has accomplished, but for those who would rather keep them to a minimum, here’s what you need to know.

Stretch marks form when the elastic tissue tears, as it bears the extra weight and sudden growth in your body. Most of the stretch marks you will encounter in your life are hereditary (if you can, ask your mom if she experienced stretch marks to get a sense of if you may get them too). But with skin care, 70% is often impacted by genetics, and 30% is impacted by your lifestyle and how you care for it. 

To take that 30% by the horns and minimize the chance of experiencing stretch marks, the best advice is to use oils and moisturizers to hydrate and deeply moisturize the skin as much as you can. The goal is to keep it moisturized enough so that skin has more flexibility to stretch a little more without succumbing to stretch marks. It’s not a 100% guarantee that nothing will happen but it’s always best to give it all you got!

For this particular skin concern, I used the Solved Skincare 100% Organic Jojoba Oil. I loved the lightweight, but still deeply moisturizing oil. Because there were no fillers, and it was just all jojoba oil (my favorite oil), it had this natural luxurious slip and no scent. I would slather it all over my belly after showers in the morning and before going to sleep. I went through about 3 bottles of it during my pregnancy, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this new routine continues on after I give birth. It’s nice giving my body some extra love, especially as I am quarantining and now used to a nightly self-care ritual.

Other products that made it super easy to hydrate my face and body were mists! As my belly grew, it became harder to bend down and moisturize my legs, so having a mist like the Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist made it easier to spritz morning and night to keep my body skin hydrated and soft.

Pro-tip: Don’t neglect your butt! I’m in my final days of pregnancy, and I’m happy to report that my belly area has 2-3 tiny stretch marks at most. But my butt (which already had stretch marks pre-pregnancy) experienced more stretch marks! I wasn’t diligent at all about moisturizing my rear and bust, so if I could give you a pro-tip, I would encourage you to take the time to moisturize all over.

Melasma – Treatment

I encountered a lot of melasma this pregnancy, and I’ll tell you why: I was overly confident. I have pretty fair skin, without much pigmentation or even freckles. I’m also great at wearing sunscreen, so I felt I had all the right tools in my tool kit to not worry about melasma. 

Boy, was I wrong!

I didn’t realize how susceptible pregnancy would make me to damaging UV rays, and how quickly my skin would sprout brown spots. It didn’t help that the bulk of my pregnancy was during the summer, during a period of COVID quarantine. I spent most weekends outdoors, especially since indoor activities were discouraged. Also my work-from-home desk is positioned right next to a huge window with lots of exposure to UVA and UVB rays. 

I also wasn’t very careful about avoiding direct sunlight. I would be outside lounging in the park for hours. My cockiness led to pigmentation, splattered all across my cheeks. It’s upsetting because now I need to use a concealer to blend the brown spots away, when I never had to.

The solution to get to the root of this skin concern is actually not concealer, but Vitamin C. Luckily, Vitamin C is completely safe to use when pregnant (confirmed with Dr. Chang), so I try to incorporate it into my routine as much as possible. In my daily skin care routine I use the Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure VItamin C Glow Toner, which is a great way to incorporate daily vitamin C both morning and night. I love how it’s also filled with hydrating fermented ingredients, which makes this a great toner & brightening essence combo, if I ever felt lazy and wanted to simplify my routine!

If you want more vitamin C, check out the Good (Skin) Days C’s the Day Serum 10% Vitamin C treatment as an additional spot treatment.

Note: They do say that melasma can fade away on its own after pregnancy. I’ll keep you posted on what happens in the months following!

Melasma – Prevention 

Now that I’ve shared how you can reduce pigmentation, let’s not forget that it’s best to focus on prevention! Once I realized how melasma was affecting my skin, I doubled down on sunscreen. I curated a mineral-based sunscreen that has SPF 50, Thank You Farmer Safe Sun Fluid. It’s in a larger bottle, which has lasted me much longer since I was slathering it all over, multiple times a day. I personally do not think chemical-based sunscreens like the Thank You Farmer Sun Project Essence and the Neogen Day Light Sunscreen are unsafe in any way just because they are not mineral, but because so many of you provided feedback on preferring a mineral-based sunscreen during pregnancy, I decided to curate the mineral-only sunscreen version as well!

Bottom Line

Pregnancy is a wild ride to say the least, and it definitely can make an impact on your skin! I’ve definitely learned a lot through this journey, and I’m excited to pass on my full pregnancy routine:

Here’s my full pregnancy routine:

Step 1&2: Double Cleanse – Then I Met You Cleansing Duo
Step 3: Tone – Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Toner
Step 4: Essence – Then I Met You Essence
Optional Steps: Treatments – Benton Tea Tree Serum, C’s the Day Serum
Step 5: Moisturize – Neogen Joan Day & Night Cream
Body: Solved Skin Care Jojoba Oil, Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist
Step 6: Sunscreen – Thank You Farmer Safe Sun Fluid

Also, to help with your journey, I’ve put together a specially curated Mama-To-Be Skin Care Starter Set of the key products in my routine that I consider as essentials during pregnancy and plan to use while breastfeeding too. Hoping it would be an easy gift for any mamas-to-be, or as add-ons to your current routine. 

I’m excited to meet my little one in a week’s time, and let her know all that I had to change in my lifestyle to bring her into this world. Though, of course, I’ll let her know that she was so worth it!

What products are your go-tos for healthy skin during pregnancy? Share them below!

The post Charlotte Cho Shares Her Best Pregnancy Skin Care Tips For Glowy, Healthy Skin appeared first on The Klog.

Postpartum Care Center (joriwon)
I’ve described the joriwon as an all-inclusive resort for new moms. Moms are expected to do nothing but indulge in R&R (with optional breastfeed sessions). There’s a strict visitor policy, so you don’t have to worry about family or in-laws dropping by. Massages, laundry and housekeeping are included. Three meals and additional snacks are delivered to your door every day. Between the room service, feedings and massages, I couldn’t even make time for all the other activities like morning yoga. At the core of the joriwon experience is the nursery where nurses watch and care for infants. Of course, moms are welcome to room-in with the baby, but the separate nursery came to my rescue several times, especially when I desperately needed sleep.

There are so many options for different preferences and budgets, so choosing a joriwon is not an easy feat, and something to be done only after taking the full tour of the facility. I toured three and chose my own joriwon based on the proximity to my hospital, the number of doctor visits (daily), the quantity of massages (a lot), and yoga and other programs (oh, how naive I was to think that I’d be able to pull off a downward facing dog pose a week after giving birth!). “It’s a once in a lifetime experience,” one friend told me, because you’re only a first-time mom once. She said to think of it as my last vacation. Because for a while, it will be.

Who it’s for: Any mom who wants to be pampered, sequestered and have the baby looked after for 24/7. Most joriwon guests are first-time moms.

How much you can expect to pay: Most joriwon in Seoul run between 2 to 4 million won (1,700-3,400 USD) per 2-week stay. High-end centers in more prestigious neighborhoods of Gangnam and Seocho can set you back 10 million won (8,550 USD) or more for a two-week stay.

Where to look if you’re not in Korea: While postpartum care centers are not uncommon in Asian communities, look for licensed postpartum wellness and care centers, or a postpartum doula (see the next paragraph) near you.

At-Home Postpartum Caretaker (sanhudoumi)
The joriwon experience, as luxurious as it might sound, is not for everyone. Some women recover quickly, find it too sterile or stifling or isolating, and check out early. For the woman who wants to rest and recover in the comfort of her own home, there is the sanhudoumi—a postpartum caretaker. Sanhudoumi (literally “postpartum helper”) are usually middle-aged Korean women trained in postpartum maternal and infant care. Her responsibilities include all things baby-related (feeding, bathing, diapering, etc.) as well as cooking meals for mom, giving her massages and some light household chores. The caretakers are endearingly referred to as emonim, an honorific term for aunties, and they will take care of you like family. Sanhudoumi services can be booked for one week to months on end, eight hours a day or as a 24/7 live-in service.

A postpartum caretaker is not just a nurse for the baby—she’s there to support and ease the mother back into the swing of things. Although the at-home services lack the facilities and gadgets found in a joriwon, many Korean postpartum services will send new moms a complete kit that helps them get acclimated to life at home after delivery. By the time you arrive home from the hospital or joriwon, you may be greeted with a starter kit that includes a sitz bath, infrared lamp, simple breast pump, thermometer, belly button cleaning kit and more. These are yours to use for the duration of the service.

Who it’s for: Anyone, especially moms with older kids, who finds recovery at home more comfortable, practical and economical. Many moms employ sanhudoumi as an extension of their joriwon stay. Sanhudoumi services cost a fraction of a joriwon bill.

How much you can expect to pay: Two weeks of sanhudoumi services (9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday) runs around 850,000 KRW (approximately 730 USD).

Where to look if you’re not in Korea: For stateside readers, you can find out more about postpartum caretakers and doulas here, and find a certified postpartum doula near you.

At-Home Postpartum Massages
The prospect of leaving the house with a newborn is daunting. While there are many spas specializing in prenatal and postpartum massages in Seoul, many women elect to have them right in their own home. It’s especially helpful to have an at-home massage if your newborn’s feeding and sleeping schedules are irregular. Massages can be simple, requiring no more than a mat and a towel, to completely indulgent with a portable massage bed, oils and hot stones. Postpartum massage therapists are familiar with the aches and pains of new moms, and most will offer a “lactation massage” at the end of each session to get the milk flowing, if you need help in that department. If there’s a husband or relative who’s helping you care for a newborn, you can usually book an additional massage for them as well. It’s a nice way to say thank you with a little pampering usually reserved for the mom.

Who it’s for: Anyone who prefers to stay close to the baby during massage therapy. A convenient option for moms and additional caretakers who want to receive back-to-back treatments.

How much you can expect to pay: Depending on the service, full body at-home postpartum massages usually run between 100,000 to 120,000 won (85-100 USD) for two hours.

Where to look if you’re not in Korea: Read more about the benefits of postpartum massages here and find a licensed massage doula near you.

The post These Korean Postpartum Services Make Giving Birth Totally Worth It appeared first on The Klog.

Love it or hate it, most women who have gone through pregnancy agree that being pregnant is one of the most intriguing experiences they’ve had in their lives. It’s no secret that I’m part of the “love it” camp—my Instagram feed is sprinkled with scenes from prenatal massages, the pregnant women priority seats in the subway, and even the pregnant women express check-out lane at the grocery store:

A post shared by Yaeri (@yae.ri) on Mar 2, 2015 at 4:20am PST

But I also happen to live in South Korea, a country with one of the lowest birthrates in the world and one of the most advanced beauty and health industries. Being pregnant here means that expecting moms can expect a little more pampering during the nine months when they need it most.
Here’s how I survived nine months of pregnancy with pampering that started at home and continued through the last trimester with the help of the many prenatal services (including a massage during pregnancy) available in Korea.
Personal prenatal routine:
This doesn’t happen to everyone, but I was blessed with the fabled “pregnancy glow.” Since becoming pregnant with my first child, my hormonal acne along my jawline has all but disappeared, and my skin has been in the best condition of my adult life. This means I don’t have to actively seek out new products for a new skin condition, but I do pay more attention to ingredients and make sure that my routine doesn’t include anything harmful to a developing fetus.
When I’m pregnant, I gravitate towards products with shorter ingredient lists, such as Innisfree’s Minimum line and the Numero 10 essence from Belief. Natural and organic food specialty stores, including Hansalim and Chorokmaeul are good sources for more nature-oriented Korean skin care products. And whenever possible, I seek out whole natural ingredients such as food-grade cocoa butter for my belly as opposed to other stretch mark prevention creams (although it’s debatable whether any cream can truly prevent stretch marks).
My weekly indulgence is a routine facial, but it’s not always something you can do during pregnancy. I didn’t continue facials with my first pregnancy because I wasn’t comfortable not being able to check the ingredients in the products used. I wasn’t as uptight during my second pregnancy, and received facials into the eighth month, but soon found it unbearable to be on my back for more than a few minutes. When I’m going through facial withdrawals, I make up for it by building more time into my weekly routine for face sheet masks, T-zone clay packs, and neck and collarbone masks for the décolletage, such as the Neogen White Truffle Hydramax Knit Mask.
Prenatal care for the body:
Prenatal care in Korea is designed for relaxation as much as it is intended to relieve expecting moms of the aches that come with the loosened joints, water retention and other wonders of pregnancy. And that’s exactly why I’m a big fan of the special massage for pregnancy Korean women get done. Having an hour of pampering is good for my mental wellbeing as it’s moisturizing and soothing for my body.

I’ve had prenatal treatments at home, hotels, skincare shops, and at joriwon (postpartum care center; most postpartum care center packages include a pre-birth facial and body massage). While many businesses offer prenatal services, it’s always a good idea to select a professional who’s experienced in prenatal care and massage. Trained therapists will know which pressure and reflex points can possibly trigger uterine contractions and work around them (they’re mostly around your ankle and heel).

Prenatal bodycare focuses on the lower part of your body, namely the lower back, hips and legs that usually suffer the most. If you’re a fan of deep-tissue, you may be disappointed because prenatal care providers take caution when dealing with two clients at once. Keep your expectations low (for pressure, that is), and don’t expect the kind of intensity you’d expect for a normal massage. Because of your growing belly you’ll be lying on your side, so it’s important that you have pillows or a body pillow to drape your leg and arm. If there’s an opening for a face on the massage table, you can weave your arm through that hole to provide relief for your weight-bearing shoulder.

Despite the variation in style, pressure and products of each prenatal care experience I’ve had, one thing that remains consistent: the promotion of blood circulation. Drastic changes to circulatory system as your body grows a little human seem to be the culprit of many pregnancy woes from leg cramps to spider veins (the increased pressure on your blood vessels can cause veins to swell and become more visible). This is also the common concern of all treatments I’ve experienced, and it’s addressed by natural oils and light pressure using sweeping motions from your neck to feet.
Lastly, a word on timing: Most prenatal services and massage during pregnancy are offered well after you’ve settled into the second trimester, and you might not need to book one until your third trimester when the body is heavier and achier. Like all things prenatal, facials and massages tend to carry a premium when you’re pregnant, so save them for when you really need (or crave) them!

+ Do you find that getting a massage during pregnancy helps? Let us know in the comments!

The post The Prenatal Massages Korean Women Rely on to Make Pregnancy Easier appeared first on The Klog.

The world is just as it should be: you’re with child, the nursery plans are coming along, your spouse is being impossibly sweet, your friends have surrounded you with love and excitement, and you’ve got that tell-tale “pregnancy glow.”

But wait… what’s that? Acne breakouts? Stretch marks? Something called “pregnancy mask”? Sure, all these skin issues pale in comparison to the joy of bringing a life into the world and building a family, but they can still bother you. We consulted two top dermatologists about common skincare-related pregnancy issues to help you understand, prevent, and minimize them. We’ve also asked them to share the best skin care for pregnancy so you don’t use the wrong products.

The Issue: Acne

One of the biggest skin care issues that pregnant women experience is acne, which is prompted by hormonal changes, says Jeannette Graf, a New York-based dermatologist. It’s especially prevalent in the first and second trimesters when your body starts producing androgens like they’re going out of style. This hormone causes your skin to create more sebum, which as you may know, leads to clogged pores, inflammation, and a greasy film.

“If breakouts should occur, it’s advisable to see a dermatologist since there are medications that can be used to treat these conditions which are considered safe during pregnancy,” says Graf.

On that note, pregnant women should avoid retinoids (vitamin A) and benzoyl peroxide, which are both effective at treating acne, but are not approved during pregnancy. To help keep your skin clear, do a thorough cleansing job every day, and lightly exfoliate at least twice a week. This prevents your pores from clogging up with dead skin cells, prevents bacteria growth, and generally brightens the skin.

We suggest exfoliating with the RE:P Bio Fresh Mask With Real Calming Herb—a clay-based mask full of pregnancy-approved ingredients, like calendula water and rose water.

The Issue: Hyperpigmentation

Another common skincare issue pregnant women deal with is hyperpigmentation that develops on their face, which is medically referred to as melasma and more commonly referred to as “pregnancy mask.” This presents as grayish or brown splotches on the face, and some women experience more severe melasma than others.

“Melasma is completely due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy, so if someone is prone to this condition it is nearly impossible to prevent,” Graf notes. “However, wearing sunblock and staying out of the sun can lessen its severity should it occur.”

In other words: Do your best to stay out of the sun while pregnant, and make sure to wear the heck out of your sunscreen. Keep a bottle in your purse, in your car, on your work desk, and by the front door! 

David J. Goldberg, a dermatologist who’s also based in New York, recommends zinc oxide (physical) sunscreens versus chemical sunscreens for pregnant women. One of our all-time favorite physical sunscreens is the Neogen Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen. He also says that if you do experience melasma, you should wait to treat it until after you’ve give birth.

“The products used to treat hyperpigmentation—such as hydroquinone and Kojic acid—are not approved in pregnancy,” he explains. Both dermatologists say the hyperpigmentation should reduce slightly over time, and that you can use the lightening agents mentioned above, and others, once you’re no longer pregnant.

The Issue: Dark under-eye circles

Dark under eye circles are caused by—you guessed it—hormonal changes. Fatigue, especially during your third trimester when it’s nearly impossible to get comfortable at night, can also exacerbate the issue. Fortunately, a couple of pregnancy-approved things can help with this.

First, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Second, do your best to get sleep when you can (we know, we know—but do try!). Another option is to target the dark eye circles and plump them up. Choose pregnancy-approved ingredients for this, such as 100% camellia oil or 100% rosehip oil, as well as hyaluronic acid, which plumps skin and helps it retain moisture. A great eye serum with hyaluronic acid is the Hanskin Real Complexion Hyaluron Eye Serum. 

You can also try a cold compress over your eyes (or the ol’ cold spoon trick), and moistened, cooled green tea bags or cucumbers will also help soothe your tired eyes.

The Issue: Stretch marks

Stretch marks are a bit of an outlier when it comes to pregnancy skincare woes because they aren’t triggered by hormonal changes, but “tend to occur genetically,” explains Graf. They can also be caused by rapid weight gain, which can occur at any time during the pregnancy, but especially during the third trimester.

Though it’s mostly out of your control, Graf says, “Using very emollient products, such as cocoa butter, can diminish the severity by increasing the plasticity of the skin.”

Other pregnancy-approved emollients include camellia and rosehip oil, as mentioned above, as well as shea butter, coconut oil, and tamanu oil. 

Outside of applying moisturizers, also do your best to stay within the diet and exercise guidelines provided by your doctor to prevent excessive weight gain, says Goldberg. And if you do get stretch marks? Well, don’t be too hard on yourself. Almost everyone in the world has them—supermodels, celebs, and men included—and they do fade over time.

Despite all these skincare issues, there’s one thing you can count on that you’ll actually enjoy while carrying: pregnancy glow. Both dermatologists confirm it’s totally a real thing caused by the increased blood flow and a feeling of “well-being” thanks to pregnancy hormones. They’re good for something, see?

+ What do you think is the best skincare for pregnancy? Share your tip below!

The post The Best Pregnancy Skin Care Tips from Top Dermatologists appeared first on The Klog.

Your search is over, because we’ve compiled a list of the products that Soko Glam employees’ mothers actually use. From a beloved anti-aging ampoule to a treasured sunscreen, these are the products our moms swear by.
Choose any one of these gifts and you know you’ll be giving your mom something that will give you serious results. After all, glowy and dewy skin is the best Mother’s Day gift of all time!
Here are the best Korean beauty products for moms:
Missha Time Revolution Night Repair New Science Activator Ampoule

A post shared by MISSHA INDONESIA OFFICIAL (@missha.id) on Dec 20, 2016 at 9:32pm PST

“This makes my skin soft and rejuvenated when I wake up in the morning,” says Jenny Ha, the mother of our operations manager, Angela.
“I loved using this when I visited my daughter in NYC last December,” says Jim Lee, the mother of  Soko Glam’s social media editor, Jisoo. “I have really dry skin, so this helped hydrate my skin and reduce my wrinkles as well!”
Son & Park Beauty Water

A post shared by Lipstick & Perfume (@younglipstick) on Apr 8, 2017 at 8:42pm PDT

“When my daughter brought this home for me to try I didn’t think it would do too much,” admits Donna Jacques, the mother of The Klog’s digital content editor, Renee. “But then I realized it’s one of the best makeup removers out there. It gets rid of my waterproof liner and conditions my skin at the same time.”
Erborian Dong Baek Camellia Essence

A post shared by Aleeyeh Karamali (@littleladylee) on May 2, 2017 at 12:29am PDT

Li Wang, the mother of Soko Glam’s senior marketing manager, Diana Xiao, relies on this oil. “I’ve always made sure to keep my skin hydrated but now that I’m older, I’ve fallen in love with face oils,” she says. “I can’t go a day without them. I love that the camellia oil by Erborian is a dry oil so it nourishes my skin without an oily residue.”
Neogen Day-Light Protection Sun Screen

A post shared by MASK SHEET LANEIGE PONY NEOGEN (@sheenandgleam) on Aug 7, 2016 at 5:16am PDT

Charlotte Cho’s mom, Judy Lee, can’t get enough of this Neogen sunscreen’s fragrance. “The fragrance is not what you would expect a sunscreen to smell like, and it’s so invigorating and therapeutic that it makes me feel like I’m at the spa,” she says. “I’ve never felt this way about a sunscreen before and the fact that I enjoy putting this on makes a huge difference since I use it every day at the end of my skin care routine.”
And Soko Glam’s senior designer Chanel Lai’s mom, Kitty, has a stash of ten of these Neogen sunscreens at home. “Sunscreens typically make my skin feel very greasy, but this Neogen one is moisturizing and absorbs quickly and leaves my face soft, and most importantly, not oily.
Erborian Elixir Au Ginseng

A post shared by Erborian (@erborian) on Nov 21, 2016 at 8:18am PST

“This is my new favorite serum to use at night,” says Meegyeong Park, the mother of our digital content and marketing associate, Tina Cho. “I love the subtle scent, and after a few days, I noticed that my fine lines were less visible.”
Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Cream

A post shared by Brush & Blush (@brushandblush.id) on Jul 19, 2016 at 4:41pm PDT

Our operations employee Margaret Brennan’s grandmother is totally obsessed with this moisturizer. “I love this cream so much! I use it every night before bed, and my skin is always brighter and moisturized when I wake up—it smells amazing, too,” says Doris, AKA “Dackie.” 
Erborian Solid Cleansing Oil

A post shared by Arica Demarcus (@lillybuggirl) on Apr 2, 2017 at 9:34pm PDT

“I love using the Erborian Solid Cleansing Oil when I wash my face to remove all of my makeup at the end of the day,” says Bernadette Almonte, the mother of our brand & communications manager, Christine. “It feels relaxing when I massage it onto my skin, and it has a light fragrance that makes my nightly cleanse therapeutic when I am winding down after a long day. When I’m done cleaning my face, my skin feels baby-soft and fresh.”

+ What do you think are the best Korean beauty products for moms? Let us know below!

The post The Korean Products Our Moms Use Every Day appeared first on The Klog.

“Pregnancy mask.” It’s a term you’ve probably heard if you’re a) thinking about having a baby; b) currently pregnant; or c) know someone who is. But it’s not immediately obvious just what exactly it is (a sheet mask that works for nine months?). So here’s the straight talk on what “pregnancy mask” is, how it forms, and what you can do about it if you have it.

First, no—it’s not a sheet mask. “Pregnancy mask” refers to dark, splotchy areas that appear in patches or peppered around the face, usually arising during pregnancy. The scientific name is “melasma,” which is how doctors (and a lot of online articles) will refer to it. It’s a pretty common condition, but still a frustrating one.

What is Melasma?

“[Melasma] looks like dark brown discoloration that appears on the forehead, cheeks or upper lip. It can occur in up to fifty percent of pregnant women,” says Dr. Debra Jaliman, assistant professor of dermatology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Discoloration occurs when patients experience a hormonal change (like pregnancy) that makes skin more sensitive to sunlight. Melanin production goes into overdrive, and dark spots move in.

But you don’t have to be pregnant to suffer from melasma. Some women develop the same grey-brown discoloration from a hormonal birth control method (aka the opposite of pregnancy) including The Pill and hormonal IUDs. You can also experience it from fertility treatments and hormone fluctuations that occur due to aging.

How to Prevent Melasma

The bad news is that there’s very little you can do to actually prevent melasma 100%. Your best bet, according to all the dermatologists we questioned, is to avoid sun exposure.

“First and foremost, you have to wear sunscreen,” says Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills and a clinical instructor at UCLA. “Try to wear a hat and sunglasses to minimize extra UV exposure.” You can also skip out on prolonged outdoor sessions while pregnant and carry an umbrella when you’re out.

Is Melasma Permanent?

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but pregnancy mask is difficult to treat, too. In fact, it’s often a permanent condition and can even get darker over time with increased sun exposure. However, if you use the right products and avoid time in the sun, your melasma may fade.

“Some women notice that melasma resolves, sometimes within a year, once they stop breastfeeding, and if they do not take hormonal birth control,” notes Dr. Shainhouse.

She notes that even if you didn’t experience melasma in your first pregnancy, it’s still possible to get it in subsequent ones. And if you did experience it in your first, you will likely experience it in your second. Sorry.

So What Products Work Best?

Sunscreen is your best friend. Wear broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and wear it every single day. You should be doing this anyway, but it’s especially important during pregnancy. “I prefer zinc oxide-based ones so there are no chemicals to cause irritation,” says Dr. Jaliman. “If you are pregnant, you can use niacinamide which is approved for pregnancy. It’s a safe and effective treatment that helps lighten the discoloration. Some sunscreens, like Elta MD, even have niacinamide in their formulation, and one I particularly like is the UV Clear Broad Spectrum 46. It is very light, contains 9% zinc oxide and niacinamide.”

Dr. Shainhouse adds that topical retinoid creams can gently exfoliate dark patches and encourage cell turnover, which reduces the appearance of melasma. She also recommends topical bleaching agents like kojic acid to help lighten the appearance of the hyper-pigmented patches. It’s a slow process—it could be months before you see results.

More intensive dermatological treatments can be a double-edged sword in the fight against discoloration. “Certain lasers might help superficial pigment in the skin, while others can reach some of the deeper pigment” says Dr. Shainhouse. “But you must proceed with caution, because they can also end up darkening the patches.” Because it’s difficult to predict whose skin will darken with lasers, lasers are not, generally, the first line of treatment.

What About Temporary Cover-Up?

In terms of daily, temporary cover-up, treat melasma like you would sun spots, blemishes, and scars. Start by color-correcting. For lighter skin tones, pink tones help counteract melasma, and for darker skin, use a color that leans more towards orange. From there, use a heavier concealer that matches your skin tone, followed by your foundation or BB cream. Then tap on a setting powder to keep everything in place.

The post A PSA About “Pregnancy Masks,” The Pesky Discoloration Known As Melasma appeared first on The Klog.

And while I can’t wait to have my own kids one day, I’m not looking forward to excess androgens running through my body that may produce a fresh crop of stretch marks, acne and pigmentation. Small price to pay for the gift of life, but hey, it doesn’t mean I have to be excited about it.
With all these changes happening to your skin during and after pregnancy, it really isn’t a surprise that many mommies reach out to us to ask what ingredients they should avoid when they look for their next beauty product. The frustrating part about this is that there isn’t a comprehensive list that clearly defines what ingredients to avoid. It’s the safest to always, always consult with your doctor for the final say because they really do know you best!
Amid all the controversies and mixed messages out there, I did my own deep-diving into studies, and had frank discussions with other estheticians and dermatologists to learn more about this topic. The general concensus is that Skin care products that are not prescribed by a doctor are generally safe to use during pregnancy or when nursing.
What are some ingredients that I should avoid?
Hydroquinone (a bleaching agent) and retinoids are two ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. There aren’t any conclusive studies that show it harms the fetus, but it’s safer to avoid because they are ingredients that absorb quickly and easily into the bloodstream.
What ingredients have a bad rap but are actually OK to use?
There have been multiple studies done on salicylic acid, glycolic acid, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide (commonly found in sun screens), and self-tanners, but there aren’t any that conclude that topical use of these ingredients result in harmful effects to a fetus or baby. In fact, only a minimal amount of these ingredients are able to be absorbed by skin—most of it is metabolized within the skin and excreted through urine.
In fact, regardless if you’re pregnant or not, you should always use sunscreen. If you’re nervous that SPF is going to be too strong on your skin, we suggest opting for a soothing and mild formula. The Goodal Mild Protect Watery Sun Cream is super lightweight and is chockfull of vitamins and antioxidants. And the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream ‘s main ingredient is aloe, which is totally non-irritating and great for every kind of skin type.
The bottom line:
Nothing is more precious than your little mini-me growing inside of your belly, so take the precautions you see fit throughout your pregnancy and while nursing.

+ Do you know of any other skin care products you should avoid during pregnancy? How about any you should definitely use? Sound off in the comments below!

The post The 2 Skin Care Products You Should Avoid During Pregnancy appeared first on The Klog.