Summer is in full swing and it’s been a hot one! Here are some tips to help keep you and all the kiddos safe this summer:
- This may seem obvious, but try to head outdoors during nonpeak hours (before 10am or after 4pm) when the sun’s rays aren’t at their strongest.
- Wear sunscreen!!! While pregnant, the hormones in your body actually can increase the risk of cholasma (mask of pregnancy) when exposed to the sun and those spots can become permanent! Choose a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals block both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure these are the only ingredients listed…this ensures the formula is free of chemical sunscreen and is safe for young babies. We love Thinkbaby Sunscreen. It’s a natural and safe for all ages. TIP—Buy multiple bottles, leave one in the bathroom, in the car, in your purse…that way you aren’t left searching for it…or even worse forget to put it on!
- If you or baby burns, use a cold compress. This will relieve swelling and discomfort. At the park? Check slides before having children use them. One trip down on a too hot slide can result in second-degree burns on hands, legs, and feet! Also, never go barefoot! Some studies have show materials at parks can heat up to over 167 degrees! Ouch!
- Take a few quick showers throughout the day to stay cool.
- Hot weather can aggravate swelling. Minimize salt intake to keep swelling minimal. If you do have some swelling, put your feet up to increase circulation and reduce swelling. Cooling Bliss Gel can also be a life saver to swelling in feet, ankles and hands. It’s available at Becoming Mom and used in our pedicure services!
- Tip some back….WATER that is. Dehydration is incredibly dangerous for pregnant women. Drink AT LEAST eight to ten glasses a day, more if you are active or in the heat for an extended period. Be aware of these signs of dehydration: thirst, dry and/or chapped lips, fatigue, constipation, and dry skin.
- A pregnant woman’s skin is likely to itch due to rapid stretching. The itch may get worse during the summer heat. Itchy skin may be soothed by staying hydrated, or using a moisturizing creams or soaps. Exfoliating can also help relieve itch skin. Try Basq’s Sugar Scrub and a rich mositurizer like Mama Mio O-Mega Body Lotion or Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter which have ingredients that are safe during pregnancy.
Enjoy a sun-safe Summer!
