Keep It Glowing

Yes, you can still look like a million bucks, even if you’re heavily pregnant. Young Parents asks an expert about common beauty concerns.

HAIR
Your worry I want to colour my hair, but is it safe for my unborn baby?

Try this If you're anxious about the effects of the dye's chemicals, go for a reputable brand and read the label carefully - it should state if it's not suitable for mums-to-be, says Dr Christopher Ng, obstetrician and gynaecologist at GynaeMD Women's & Rejuvenation Clinic. Ask for Medavita Enjoy Organic Tea Hair Colour at Phyto Hair Spa (tel: 6220-6948). It's a semi-permanent hair colour and is free of ammonia and paraphenylenediamine. Prices start from $85.

SKIN
Your worry My skin is now oily and prone to pimples.

Try this You can thank your newly surging hormones for the pregnancy “glow”, explains Dr Ng. Wash your face with a cleanser that doesn’t strip skin oils, like Bioxil Protective Foamy Cleanser. It’s enhanced with plant extracts such as lemon peel and tea tree oils to prevent breakouts. $59 for 100ml, from Bioxil Skin Lab and selected Guardian stores.

BREASTS
Your worry Why are my breasts sore?

Try this The hormones are prepping them to produce milk. Dr Ng recommends that you wear a good support bra and upgrade your cup size as your pregnancy progresses. Apply Mustela 9 Months Specific Support Bust, which helps soothe the tenderness. $38.50 for 125ml, from Mothers Work, Takashimaya D.S. and Robinsons.

BABY BUMP
Your worry What can I do to prevent stretch marks?

Try this Keep your belly well moisturised as soon as you’re pregnant, so your skin can stretch without tearing, says Dr Ng. We like Palmer’s Organics Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion, which nourishes your belly with vitamin E, collagen, elastin and shea butter. $36.90 for 250ml, from Watsons, Guardian and Kiddy Palace.

LEGS
Your worry My legs are so heavy and tired.

Try this You’re carrying extra weight now! Your legs and feet are also swelling because of fluid retention and slower blood circulation. Rest and elevate them whenever you can, says Dr Ng. Try Egg Essential Care Soothing Foot Gel, which has tangerine and lavender essential oils, and aloe vera to perk you up. $31 for 175ml, from Egg Maternity.

Read the June 2010 issue of Young Parents for more expert tips on pregnancy and baby care.