Safety First

Protect your baby and your own skin with these tips.

Bosom Buddies
Your belly isn't the only part of your body that is getting bigger—and, in turn, suffering the consequences. Your ballooning breasts, too, may develop stretch marks and itchiness as the skin expands. Keep your skin soft—and discomfort to a minimum—by washing with a mild cleanser and applying cream right after you shower to lock in moisture, suggests Bank. Mustela Specific Support Bust ($25), which is safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, contains a soy peptide derivative and wheat protein to help support the skin as it expands, plus calendula extract to soothe itching.

Full Frontal Disclosure
There's no sexier rendering of ripeness than a burgeoning belly. But when it comes to the host of products that promise to prevent stretch marks, safety isn't really the issue—effectiveness is. The result of your rapidly expanding midsection, stretch marks form in the layer of supportive tissue found just beneath the skin's surface. While doctors agree that only your own DNA can prevent permanent marks (which will fade over time), most balms and lotions are harmless and soothing. Clarins Stretch Mark Control ($46) calms dry, inflamed, itchy skin with olive, coconut and palm oils.

Smooth Operator
Your legs can safely stay as smooth as a baby's bottom with shaving and waxing. But because pregnancy hormones can sensitize your skin, waxing may cause a skin reaction or feel particularly painful. And while depilatory use hasn't been shown to be harmful, moms-to-be should avoid applying unnecessary chemicals on their bodies. In addition, be sure to consult your doctor before scheduling laser hair removal. To safely relax and rejuvenate tired legs, look for lotions containing refreshing botanicals, such as Burt's Bees Mama Bee Leg and Foot Creme ($9) with cooling peppermint oil (safe in small doses) and rosemary leaf extract.