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Pregnancy safe skincare ingredients vs what to avoid
Penny found 20 sources
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2 peer-reviewed research articles
2 professionally-backed sources
4 articles from healthcare institutions
Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients and What to Avoid
Pregnancy brings changes to your skin and your skincare routine. While many products are safe, some ingredients are best avoided due to potential risks to your developing baby. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s considered safe and what to steer clear of during pregnancy.
Ingredients Generally Considered Safe During Pregnancy
Gentle, hydrating, and protective options
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Mineral Sunscreens: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are recommended for sun protection, as they sit on the skin’s surface and are not absorbed.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During PregnancyAlthough strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).
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Moisturizers: Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and vitamin E are safe and help maintain skin hydration.
Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During PregnancyAlthough strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy - PMCWe sought to know the efficacy and safety profile of topical products for use duringpregnancy. We used PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to review literature on topical products and pregnancy. A majority of pregnant women develop skin changes, ...
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Vitamin C: An antioxidant that can brighten skin and protect against environmental damage.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.CSI Dermatologists Free Guide to Pregnancy Skincare Ingredient Safety - California Skin InstituteReviewed By A Skincare Specialist What ToAvoid And What To Use Instead Congratulations! You’re carrying a new life! Pregnancy is an exhilarating time brimming with positive energy and eager anticipation. But it can also be beset by anxiety for the safety and healthy development of the precious ...
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Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3, helpful for redness, uneven skin tone, and strengthening the skin barrier.
Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During PregnancyAlthough strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care, Tested and ReviewedShe noted that to her the lotion ... performance and lack of fragrance, Niki said she’d definitely repurchase this pregnancy-safeskincare product. Quantity: 18 fl. oz. | Active ingredients: Oat kernel flour | EWG rating: 1...Read full articleSource: The Bump
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Azelaic Acid: Safe for treating acne and hyperpigmentation.
Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy - PMCWe sought to know the efficacy and safety profile of topical products for use duringpregnancy. We used PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to review literature on topical products and pregnancy. A majority of pregnant women develop skin changes, ...Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care: What to Use and What to AvoidWhen you're expecting, pregnancy-safe skin care can help ensure the health of you and your baby. We'll tell you what to avoid — and some good alternatives to use.Read full articleSource: Healthline
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Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid: Low concentrations in over-the-counter products are considered safe for gentle exfoliation.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy - PMCWe sought to know the efficacy and safety profile of topical products for use duringpregnancy. We used PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to review literature on topical products and pregnancy. A majority of pregnant women develop skin changes, ...Skin care dos and don'ts when pregnant or breastfeeding | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NEWhether you’re looking to fix an undesirable skin issue brought on by pregnancy or you simply want to verify the safety of your current regimen, this article will help you find a balance between maintaining your glow and protecting your little one.Read full articleSource: nebraskamed.com
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Benzoyl Peroxide: Low concentrations (up to 5%) are generally considered safe for spot-treating acne.
Skin care dos and don'ts when pregnant or breastfeeding | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NEWhether you’re looking to fix an undesirable skin issue brought on by pregnancy or you simply want to verify the safety of your current regimen, this article will help you find a balance between maintaining your glow and protecting your little one.Read full articleSource: nebraskamed.comSafety of skin care products during pregnancy - PMCWhen benzoyl peroxide is applied topically, only 5% is absorbed through the skin, and then it is completely metabolized to benzoic acid within the skin and excreted unchanged in the urine.2,3 No studies on the use of this preparation in pregnant patients have been published; however, systemic ...
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Sulfur: Used for acne, considered safe.
Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During PregnancyAlthough strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Products in 2025, According to ExpertsI asked dermatologists about ingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and the best products to add to your routine.Read full articleSource: NBC News
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Linked to potential risks or lack of safety data
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Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives): Includes retinol, tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, and isotretinoin. These are linked to birth defects and should be avoided in all forms (prescription and over-the-counter).
Safety of skin care products during pregnancy - PMCWhen benzoyl peroxide is applied topically, only 5% is absorbed through the skin, and then it is completely metabolized to benzoic acid within the skin and excreted unchanged in the urine.2,3 No studies on the use of this preparation in pregnant patients have been published; however, systemic ...Skin Conditions During Pregnancy | ACOGChanges to your skin, nails, and hair are common during pregnancy. Learn about symptoms and management of skin changes including dark spots, melasma, linea nigra, stretch marks, acne, spider veins, varicose veins, and more.Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Guide: Ingredients to AvoidHere's a list of skin care ingredients you should avoid duringpregnancy, plus safer options.Read full articleSource: What to ExpectPregnancy-Safe Skin Care: What to Use and What to AvoidWhen you're expecting, pregnancy-safe skin care can help ensure the health of you and your baby. We'll tell you what to avoid — and some good alternatives to use.Read full articleSource: Healthline
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Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening agent with high absorption rates and insufficient safety data; best to avoid.
Safety of skin care products during pregnancy - PMCWhen benzoyl peroxide is applied topically, only 5% is absorbed through the skin, and then it is completely metabolized to benzoic acid within the skin and excreted unchanged in the urine.2,3 No studies on the use of this preparation in pregnant patients have been published; however, systemic ...Beauty Products and Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During PregnancyThe chemical reacts with the dead ... as a safer alternative to sun tanning. Although it’s not absorbed into the body, it can be inhaled during application and is unhealthy for you and your baby. It can be hard to decipher the complicated labels on many of the products we use every day, but watching out for these skincareingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and sticking ...Read full articleSource: Women's CarePregnancy-Safe Skin Care Guide: Ingredients to AvoidHere's a list of skin care ingredients you should avoid duringpregnancy, plus safer options.Read full articleSource: What to Expect
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High-Dose Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/BHA): Oral forms and high-concentration peels are not safe. Low-dose topical products (2% or less) are likely safe, but frequent or large-area use should be avoided.
Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During PregnancyAlthough strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).Safety of skin care products during pregnancy - PMCWhen benzoyl peroxide is applied topically, only 5% is absorbed through the skin, and then it is completely metabolized to benzoic acid within the skin and excreted unchanged in the urine.2,3 No studies on the use of this preparation in pregnant patients have been published; however, systemic ...Skin care dos and don'ts when pregnant or breastfeeding | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NEWhether you’re looking to fix an undesirable skin issue brought on by pregnancy or you simply want to verify the safety of your current regimen, this article will help you find a balance between maintaining your glow and protecting your little one.Read full articleSource: nebraskamed.comPregnancy-Safe Skin Care: What to Use and What to AvoidWhen you're expecting, pregnancy-safe skin care can help ensure the health of you and your baby. We'll tell you what to avoid — and some good alternatives to use.Read full articleSource: Healthline
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Chemical Sunscreens: Ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone are best avoided; mineral sunscreens are preferred.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During PregnancyAlthough strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).
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Certain Essential Oils: Some, such as rosemary, sage, and jasmine, may cause uterine contractions or hormonal effects.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Products in 2025, According to ExpertsI asked dermatologists about ingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and the best products to add to your routine.Read full articleSource: NBC News
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Formaldehyde and Derivatives: Found in some nail and hair products, linked to adverse effects.
CSI Dermatologists Free Guide to Pregnancy Skincare Ingredient Safety - California Skin InstituteReviewed By A Skincare Specialist What ToAvoid And What To Use Instead Congratulations! You’re carrying a new life! Pregnancy is an exhilarating time brimming with positive energy and eager anticipation. But it can also be beset by anxiety for the safety and healthy development of the precious ...Beauty Products and Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During PregnancyThe chemical reacts with the dead ... as a safer alternative to sun tanning. Although it’s not absorbed into the body, it can be inhaled during application and is unhealthy for you and your baby. It can be hard to decipher the complicated labels on many of the products we use every day, but watching out for these skincareingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and sticking ...Read full articleSource: Women's Care
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Phthalates and Parabens: Common in fragrances and preservatives, with potential hormone-disrupting effects; look for “fragrance-free” and paraben-free labels.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Products in 2025, According to ExpertsI asked dermatologists about ingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and the best products to add to your routine.Read full articleSource: NBC News
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Tetracyclines: Oral antibiotics for acne, not safe due to effects on fetal bone and teeth development.
Skin Conditions During Pregnancy | ACOGChanges to your skin, nails, and hair are common during pregnancy. Learn about symptoms and management of skin changes including dark spots, melasma, linea nigra, stretch marks, acne, spider veins, varicose veins, and more.
How to Approach Skincare During Pregnancy
Tips for making safe choices
- Check Labels: Always review ingredient lists and look for products labeled as pregnancy-safe.
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Consult Your OB/GYN or Dermatologist: If you’re unsure about a product or ingredient, your healthcare provider can help you assess safety based on the latest evidence and your specific needs.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.
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Keep It Simple: A gentle cleanser, a hydrating moisturizer, and a mineral sunscreen form a solid, safe foundation for most routines.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careYou want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: Dermatologist's Guide to the Best Pregnancy-safe Products and What to Avoid — Boston Derm AdvocateIt is crucial to understand which ingredients to avoid and embrace when navigating the complex world of pregnancy-safe skincare. This guide aims to provide evidence-based information to help you make informed choices for your changing skin needs, though we always advise consulting your medical team.
What This Means for Your Routine
Most over-the-counter skincare products are safe when used as directed, but it’s wise to avoid certain ingredients with known or suspected risks. If you have specific skin concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation, there are pregnancy-safe alternatives available. When in doubt, consulting with your OB/GYN or a dermatologist can provide reassurance and personalized guidance.
Making Informed Choices for Your Skin and Baby
Pregnancy is a time for extra care, but you don’t have to give up effective skincare. By focusing on gentle, well-studied ingredients and avoiding those with potential risks, you can maintain healthy, comfortable skin throughout your pregnancy.
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
You want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.
Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy - PMC
We sought to know the efficacy and safety profile of topical products for use duringpregnancy. We used PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to review literature on topical products and pregnancy. A majority of pregnant women develop skin changes, ...
Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During Pregnancy
Although strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).
CSI Dermatologists Free Guide to Pregnancy Skincare Ingredient Safety - California Skin Institute
Reviewed By A Skincare Specialist What ToAvoid And What To Use Instead Congratulations! You’re carrying a new life! Pregnancy is an exhilarating time brimming with positive energy and eager anticipation. But it can also be beset by anxiety for the safety and healthy development of the precious ...
Skin care dos and don'ts when pregnant or breastfeeding | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NE
Whether you’re looking to fix an undesirable skin issue brought on by pregnancy or you simply want to verify the safety of your current regimen, this article will help you find a balance between maintaining your glow and protecting your little one.
Read full article
Source:
nebraskamed.com
Providing feedback helps us improve Penny's responses.
Peer-Reviewed Research
Published, peer-reviewed scientific studies from journals or databases.
3
Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy - PMC
We sought to know the efficacy and safety profile of topical products for use duringpregnancy. We used PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to review literature on topical products and pregnancy. A majority of pregnant women develop skin changes, ...
6
Safety of skin care products during pregnancy - PMC
When benzoyl peroxide is applied topically, only 5% is absorbed through the skin, and then it is completely metabolized to benzoic acid within the skin and excreted unchanged in the urine.2,3 No studies on the use of this preparation in pregnant patients have been published; however, systemic ...
Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy - PubMed
The most current and comprehensive information about the efficacy andsafety profile of topical products in pregnancy are necessary.
Read full article
Source:
PubMed
Clinical Guidelines & Professional Sources
Clinical recommendations from government, public health organizations, or professional medical provider associations.
1
Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
You want to take care of your baby, but it can be confusing to determine which skin care products to use duringpregnancy.
7
Skin Conditions During Pregnancy | ACOG
Changes to your skin, nails, and hair are common during pregnancy. Learn about symptoms and management of skin changes including dark spots, melasma, linea nigra, stretch marks, acne, spider veins, varicose veins, and more.
Medical & Academic Institutions
Information from hospitals, research institutions, or academic medical centers known for clinical expertise and research contributions.
2
Lindsay Boyers, MD: Safe Skincare During Pregnancy
Although strong evidence for treatments is lacking, consider trying thick moisturizers (Alastin TransFORM Body Treatment, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm), massaging the skin, and/or Trofolastin Anti-Estrias Centella cream (apply 1-2 times daily starting at 12th week of pregnancy).
4
CSI Dermatologists Free Guide to Pregnancy Skincare Ingredient Safety - California Skin Institute
Reviewed By A Skincare Specialist What ToAvoid And What To Use Instead Congratulations! You’re carrying a new life! Pregnancy is an exhilarating time brimming with positive energy and eager anticipation. But it can also be beset by anxiety for the safety and healthy development of the precious ...
5
Skin care dos and don'ts when pregnant or breastfeeding | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NE
Whether you’re looking to fix an undesirable skin issue brought on by pregnancy or you simply want to verify the safety of your current regimen, this article will help you find a balance between maintaining your glow and protecting your little one.
Read full article
Source:
nebraskamed.com
8
Beauty Products and Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
The chemical reacts with the dead ... as a safer alternative to sun tanning. Although it’s not absorbed into the body, it can be inhaled during application and is unhealthy for you and your baby. It can be hard to decipher the complicated labels on many of the products we use every day, but watching out for these skincareingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and sticking ...
Read full article
Source:
Women's Care
Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: Dermatologist's Guide to the Best Pregnancy-safe Products and What to Avoid — Boston Derm Advocate
It is crucial to understand which ingredients to avoid and embrace when navigating the complex world of pregnancy-safe skincare. This guide aims to provide evidence-based information to help you make informed choices for your changing skin needs, though we always advise consulting your medical team.
Skin Care, Hair Care and Cosmetic Treatments in Pregnancy
Although there is often limited ... specific ingredients in skin products during · pregnancy, if it is known that skin absorption is minimal then the exposure to the unborn baby is generally · insignificant and the product or treatment is regarded as safe. However, cosmetic treatments are discretionary (not · medically necessary) and if safety is uncertain, women should consider whether the product or treatment is really · required. Nonetheless most cosmetics and skincare products are ...
Guide to Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: Anti-Aging, Acne and Rosacea Treatments — San Francisco Dermatology | Best Dermatologist Bay Area
Caren Campbell, we provide expert ... for all skincare concerns, including acne, anti-aging, rosacea, and sensitive skin. Dr. Campbell’s practice focuses on delivering safe and effective dermatological care throughout her patient’s lives including throughout conception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Below, we outline evidence-basedrecommendations for creating ...
Read full article
Source:
carencampbellmd.com
General Health & Web Sources
Publicly available health-related articles from non-peer-reviewed sources. These may reference research or clinical guidelines, but are not primary sources.
A Definitive Guide to What Skincare Products to Avoid While Pregnant | Vogue
Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, MD, ... for us to help consumers determine which skincare products are unsafe duringpregnancy. The governmental organization categorizes ingredients by letters of the alphabet, ranging from safest to those that should be avoided at all costs: ...
Read full article
Source:
Vogue
Put down the retinol! What skin care is safe (and what's not) during pregnancy | BabyCenter
Here's what to know about safepregnancyskincare. Medically reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM ... Chances are you've put some thought into what you're eating during your pregnancy (cravings are real), but what you put on your body could be just as important as what you're putting in it! While most commonly used skin care products are completely safe, there are a handful of ingredients ...
Read full article
Source:
BabyCenter
Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Products in 2025, According to Experts
I asked dermatologists about ingredients to avoid duringpregnancy and the best products to add to your routine.
Read full article
Source:
NBC News
Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Guide: Ingredients to Avoid
Here's a list of skin care ingredients you should avoid duringpregnancy, plus safer options.
Read full article
Source:
What to Expect
Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care, Tested and Reviewed
She noted that to her the lotion ... performance and lack of fragrance, Niki said she’d definitely repurchase this pregnancy-safeskincare product. Quantity: 18 fl. oz. | Active ingredients: Oat kernel flour | EWG rating: 1...
Read full article
Source:
The Bump
Your Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine: What To Avoid | Software
In short, harsh chemicals that can be absorbed into your skin and certain essential oils should be avoided, whereas ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, glycolic acid, and other natural vitamin products are all approved for your pregnancy-safe skincare routine.
Read full article
Source:
skin.software
Pregnancy Safe Skincare and Makeup Products - 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic
It's hard to know which skin care products are safe once you're expecting. I've gone through a lot of ingredients list, and have this updated list of pregnancy friendly skincare products!
Read full article
Source:
15 Minute Beauty
Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care: What to Use and What to Avoid
When you're expecting, pregnancy-safe skin care can help ensure the health of you and your baby. We'll tell you what to avoid — and some good alternatives to use.
Read full article
Source:
Healthline
Uncategorized Sources
Information from sources that have not yet been categorized.