Pregnancy can bring on a flood of conflicting emotions. It certainly did for me. On the one hand I was overjoyed at the prospect of the new life growing inside me; on the other hand I was struggling with my blotchy skin, puffy face and impending stretch marks. I’d love to say that I revelled in the joys of “pregnancy glow” but I’ll be honest- I was just oily.
Finding a suitable beauty regime can be a challenge, as of course, what you put on or in your body can have effects on your baby’s wellbeing. 
Can I use this? Is this ingredient safe? Can I do that exercise class? It can be an overwhelming time. One woman who’s taking it all in her stride is international model and mum-to-be for the second time, Michelle Brooks. Here the Dubai-based Aussie beauty shares her secrets to staying model-beautiful throughout her pregnancy. Her glow is real- trust me.
SKINCARE: “Even before I got pregnant, most of the daily skincare products I used were organic and natural. Now I’m even more careful to avoid chemical nasties as everything gets absorbed into the body through the skin. My favourite’s are Kora Cream Cleanser, Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream and Eye Contour Cream and Pai Kukui & Jojoba Bead Skin Brightening Exfoliator. Since I first found out about my pregnancy I’ve used a mixture of coconut oil with a few drops of organic rose hip oil all over my torso area to prevent stretch marks. I also use Mamma Mio The Tummy Rub Oil for added protection.”
MAKEUP: “I’ve only recently started to feel like I need a little more glow to my skin. I wanted to get a spray tan but unfortunately most of them aren’t suitable for pregnant women so instead, I’ve now added a bronzing powder to my daily makeup routine just to feel a little brighter.”
EXERCISE: “For me, keeping active has been an essential part of my pregnancy. I regularly do cardio and step classes at the gym but I don’t get my heart rate up too high. I’ve had to stop ashtanga and power yoga classes as there were just too many poses I couldn’t take part in. So instead I’ve taken up pre-natal reformer pilates which has been great as it’s a safe way to stay toned and trim. As it’s a pre-natal class, it focuses on the areas that you want to keep lean during pregnancy like arms, legs and bottom. What’s more, you really break a sweat! I’ve also been having some lovely pre-natal massages at the SensAsia Urban Spas which have really helped with the fluid retention in my legs. I highly recommend it.”
