Our Guide to Pregnancy Facials

A facial is one of the most popular and enjoyable spa treatments. In this guide, we take a look at what you need to know about spa facials during pregnancy.

Can I have a facial when pregnant?

You can enjoy certain types of facials during pregnancy, and there are facials tailored specifically to pregnant women. However, a few things are off-limits. These include chemical peels, hot stones, microdermabrasion, and laser therapies. You also need to be careful when it comes to aromatherapy, as certain oils should not be used when pregnant, and it is best to avoid products containing retinol. It is crucial that you let the spa and your therapist know that you are pregnant and how far along you are, so they can tailor your treatment accordingly.

When can I enjoy a facial during pregnancy?

Some spas may not offer treatments to women in their first 12 weeks of pregnancy or from week 32 onwards. This is why it is important to advise us and the spa about your pregnancy at the time of booking, as well as to check with your doctor. As long as you are cleared to enjoy a facial, many of our 500+ spas cater to the needs of pregnant women, with experienced therapists and specific products which are safe for you and the baby.

What is a pregnancy facial?

This is a tailored facial that specifically addresses a pregnant woman’s skin concerns. Thanks to a flood of reactive hormones, mothers-to-be can become photo-sensitive to sunlight and suffer from pigmentation patches on their faces (known as “pregnancy mask”) and other parts of the body exposed to UV rays. The complexion tends to blemish easily in pregnancy and hormonal breakouts are another common side effect.

What does a pregnancy facial involve?

A pregnancy facial includes stages including a deep cleanse and gentle exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells. A balancing or hydrating mask is often applied to refresh hormonally-challenged skin to leave it glowing. As the complexion can become sensitised and reactive in pregnancy, spa therapists may also use gentle sebum-balancing and skin-nourishing products.

Additionally, skin can become dull, dry and extra-sensitive in pregnancy. So, facials tend to range from calming and de-puffing, to stimulating and radiance-boosting, thanks to the use of, for example, clarifying oxygenating masks or impurity-extracting herbal clay masks.

Five of the best types of facials for pregnancy  

Many spas offer specific facials for pregnant guests, which might be based upon the following types of spa facial:

• Hydrating facials: The focus of this type of facial is to boost the skin’s moisture levels, using products designed to smooth dry patches and re-plump the skin.
• Oxygen facials: This type of facial involves the use of oxygen at high pressure to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin while encouraging collagen growth.
• Steam facials: In this type of facial, the power of heat is harnessed to cleanse and detoxify the skin using steam before products are applied.
• Enzyme peel facials: There are different facials that involve peeling away the top layer of skin but pregnant guests should avoid any that use chemicals.
• LED facials: This facial is a form of light therapy that uses different wavelengths to improve the overall condition of the skin.

If you have any concerns about having a facial when pregnant, check with your doctor or the spa.

Five of the best spa hotels for facials during pregnancy

If you want to enjoy a facial during pregnancy, we offer a range of pregnancy spa packages that often include the choice of treatment. Here are just five venues that feature spa days or breaks with an optional or inclusive pregnancy facial.

• Best Western Heronston Hotel & Spa: For some much-needed pregnancy pampering, this contemporary spa hotel near Cardiff is a terrific choice.
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Breadsall Priory Country Club: Another great option is this impressive rural country club, golf and spa resort near Derby.
• Mercure Birmingham West Hotel: Enjoy a soothing pregnancy treatment at this superb spa hotel conveniently located close to West Bromwich.
• Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa: Treat yourself to some welcome downtime at this luxury spa hotel in Faversham in North Yorkshire.
• Hotel du Vin Exeter: Located in central Exeter, this wonderful hotel is ideal for combining spa relaxation with a trip to the south-west.

Want to learn more? Take a look at our other pregnancy spa guides.