Friday, September 03, 2010
Do you know that it is just as important to be aware of what you put ON your body as much as what you put IN during pregnancy? Most pregnant women are aware that too much caffeine or certain types of fish can be a vital concern during pregnancy - but many are unaware of the application of certain ingredients can be absorbed into the skin and may affect both mom and baby.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the skin in several ways -dry/dehydrated skin, melasma (pregnancy mask) and acne/break-out prone skin.
Retinoids most often found in anti-aging skin care products include vitamin A. Certain retinoids such as Accutane (for acne) are well known to cause birth defects. Retinol, Retinoic acid, Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac and Avage are a few other labels that are recommended best to avoid during pregnancy.
Salicylic acid and BHA's are mild ingredients used for acne, oily skin and other skin conditions and can often be found in over the counter cleansers, toners and some makeup. Studies have shown that high doses (such as chemical peels) cause birth defects and other pregnancy complications. Doctors remain cautious about recommending topical use of salicylic acid and BHA's (Beta Hydroxy Acid), however small amounts applied to the skin, in the form of a cleanser or toner once or twice a day, are considered safe.
Products SAFE to use during pregnancy are always sunscreens - especially if you have melasma or struggling with dark spots on the skin.
Always consult with your Obstetrician or Dermatologist before using these ingredients.
Happy Skin Care!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
With new baby comes new chores and less time for mommy. Studies show that stress levels can often strain the body and can cause irritability, muscle tension, high blood pressure, forgetfulness and sleeplessness (and you definitely DON'T need any more help in that area!)
If you are feeling three or more of these symptoms of stress then you need some TIME OUT!
Try some simple steps to help relax. Focus on your breathing, forget the dishes and take a nap while baby is sleeping, put a warm towel/neck roll around your neck when holding the baby, call daddy and have him pick up dinner, take a warm bath and place a cool lavender scented eye pack on your eyes before bedtime while daddy puts baby to sleep. A few drops of lavender oil on your pillow case will help too!
Sweet Dreams!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Summertime Fun Time!
Join North Central Baptist Hospital for the 5th Annual Summer Celebration.
Your kids will love the fun activities, and you'll enjoy informative exhibits.
- FREE t-shirt for the first 200 attendees who donate back-to-school supplies
- Great giveaway items from area businesses
- FREE food and refreshments
- Local physicians with FREE family health and wellness information
- Asthma education
- Learn about the Spirit of Women program
- Games, crafts and much, much more!
When: Saturday, August 7th
Time: 9 am to noon
Location: North Central Baptist Hospital's Atrium Lobby
520 Madison Oak Drive
San Antonio, TX 78258
For more information, please call (210) 297-7005
Infant massage is such an important interaction between the parent and infant and is linked to behavior and social development and proven to increase weight gain in pre-term infants. Most touch that pre-term infants experience is procedural touch and not gentle/tactile touch such as rubbing, stroking and gentle rocking.
Massaging a child or infant is much different from the type adults receive. Infant massage not only includes the touch factor but also eye contact, laughter, smiling and gentle nurturing sounds. Both infant and parent benefit from this bonding experience and are able to communicate with one another through nurturing touch. It's just one of the many ways a parent can communicate love through touch.
Best times to give baby a massage and other tips:
- About 30 minutes after feeding
- After bath time
- Nap time massage will help baby relax
- Light pressure is most comfortable (equivalent to the pressure you use to touch your eyelids)
- If using oils, Warm oil in hands before touching baby. Warm hands and room are most comfortable. Careful not to use too much oil that will make baby slippery to carry - have a towel handy to wrap baby to carry.
- Talk, smile and sing to your baby during their massage.
Enjoy your time bonding!!
P.S....not just for mommys!
Neva Fernandez, LMT
Momease Massage