Our bodies change in so many ways when we are pregnant. While we may not be as focused on our skin and hair, how we look during pregnancy can truly impact how we feel.
Meet Dr. Jennifer Davis Alexander, the second African American ever to earn her doctorate in Cosmetic Science. We sat down with Dr. Jen and got her unique insight on her roles as a trailblazer and as a mother.
When we asked Dr. Jen what attracted her to cosmetic science she was quick to let us know that “beauty is in [her] bones!” She is a beauty diva at heart and had a real passion for skincare growing up. In her undergraduate chemistry studies, she learned that her passions could merge in the world of Cosmetic Science.
Dr. Jen is a pioneer! She has opened doors for young, Black women to explore Cosmetic Science and make the beauty and healthcare industry even more accessible. Dr. Jen balances motherhood and wifelihood with her successful career as a Skin Scientist. When asked what advice she has for young, Black women who want to balance motherhood and their career, she said:
- Get a mentor in your field… and be a mentor to others
- Believe that you can have it all, because you can!
- Put yourself first! Dr. Jen said “I don’t pour from my own cup I give from my overflow”
- Do what you love… the time you spend working is time spent away from your family so do something that breathes life into you.
“Motherhood is a beautiful journey, and it has challenged me in ways I never imagined!” Dr. Jen says. One of her biggest challenges was her almost 7-year struggle with postpartum depression, which began after the birth of her first child. For years she didn’t realize what she was battling. Her postpartum depression led to a number of challenges including irritability, lack of confidence, difficulty sleeping, questioning her purpose beyond motherhood, and self-medicating with alcohol. After saying “enough is enough”, she leaned into her spirituality and began using holistic tools including meditation, skincare, and music therapy to heal.
As a Holistic Skin Scientist, Dr. Jen understands that the state of your skin can be a clear indicator of your overall health. “The skin is the largest organ of the body” and we need to reframe the way we think about it. Skincare is an important part of the health of mom and baby.
Community is such an important piece of this motherhood and beauty journey and Dr. Jen is launching a group coaching program for Black, pregnant mothers. Her goal is to give moms the tools to confidently navigate skincare and self-care during each stage of pregnancy and postpartum and find strength in each other. Her program will launch in Spring 2024 so stay tuned for registration. And you are going to want to follow Dr. Jen on Instagram (@drjen_knowsskin).
We asked Dr. Jen what is something she would like to leave with the mamas reading this, and she said:
- You are magical, there is nothing more magical than being a mother and bringing life into the world. Celebrate your magic every day!
- Ask for help, easier said than done, but it is important to make sure you have a strong support system.
- Get your beauty sleep! Get your sleep however and whenever you can. It is essential to your survival and for looking and feeling your best!
Follow Dr. Jen and Mae Health on our social channels to learn more about skin health and motherhood!