Maternal health experts have warned that pregnant women using makeup and personal care products are at a higher risk of developing hypertension due to certain harmful chemicals found in these items.
Hair dyes, nail polishes, and skincare creams may contain lead, mercury, parabens, and phenols, which can interfere with hormone function and contribute to high blood pressure.
A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives revealed that phenols and parabens increase the risk of hypertension during pregnancy by up to 57%, especially between 24–28 weeks of gestation.
Experts emphasized that elevated blood pressure during pregnancy could lead to complications such as preeclampsia, eclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction, all of which pose serious risks to both mother and baby.
Dr. Joseph Akinde, a reproductive health expert, explained that parabens can mimic estrogen, potentially causing water and salt retention, which elevates blood pressure.
He urged pregnant women to be cautious about their use of cosmetic products to protect their health and that of their babies.
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Credit – PUNCH Healthwise