Pregnancy Skincare: What’s Safe and What to Avoid
Is your once-predictable skin behaving differently now that you’re pregnant? You’re not alone. Many expectant mothers find themselves navigating unexpected skin changes while questioning which products in their bathroom cabinet remain safe for their growing baby.
How Pregnancy Changes Your Skin
Pregnancy triggers significant hormonal fluctuations that transform your skin in various ways. Increased oil production often leads to pregnancy acne, while hormonal hyperpigmentation can result in melasma (the “mask of pregnancy”). The increased blood flow responsible for your pregnancy “glow” might also cause unexpected redness, and previously normal skin may suddenly become dry and sensitive.
These changes make skincare especially important during pregnancy, but safety becomes the primary concern.
Safe Skincare Ingredients During Pregnancy
Good news! Many effective skincare ingredients remain completely safe during pregnancy:
Vitamin C
This powerful antioxidant brightens skin and fights hyperpigmentation safely. According to dermatologists, vitamin C products applied in the morning can help prevent and treat pregnancy-related skin discoloration while maintaining that pregnancy glow naturally.
Hyaluronic Acid
Need hydration? Hyaluronic acid is considered completely safe during pregnancy, according to research published in GoodRx Health. This moisture-binding ingredient helps maintain skin plumpness without causing any concern for your baby.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
This multitasking ingredient calms inflammation, strengthens your skin barrier, and improves tone—all while being pregnancy-safe. It’s particularly helpful for managing pregnancy-related redness and sensitivity.
Azelaic Acid
If you’re struggling with pregnancy acne or melasma, azelaic acid offers a safe solution. Research indicates it’s an effective treatment that doesn’t pose risks during pregnancy.
Physical/Mineral Sunscreens
The American Academy of Dermatology specifically recommends physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide during pregnancy. These ingredients sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, making them ideal for protection against both sun damage and pregnancy-induced hyperpigmentation.
Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Some popular skincare ingredients should be avoided or used with extreme caution during pregnancy:
Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin, etc.)
Despite their anti-aging benefits, retinoids are consistently flagged as ingredients to avoid. A peer-reviewed study notes that evidence regarding tretinoin’s pregnancy safety remains controversial, so it’s best to eliminate these from your routine entirely.
Hydroquinone
This skin-lightening ingredient should be avoided due to its relatively high absorption rate. The FDA lists hydroquinone under category C because larger amounts can enter the bloodstream and potentially affect your baby.
High-Dose Salicylic Acid
While low concentrations in cleansers and spot treatments are generally considered safe, high-dose salicylic acid products such as peels and oral medications should be avoided during pregnancy according to a 2013 study.
Chemical Sunscreens
Opt for physical/mineral sunscreens instead of chemical ones, which may contain ingredients like oxybenzone that have raised safety concerns during pregnancy.
Creating a Simple Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine
Board-certified dermatologist Shoshana Marmon, MD, PhD, FAAD recommends a simple 3-step pregnancy skincare routine that prioritizes both skin health and baby safety. Start by cleansing gently once or twice daily with a fragrance-free, sulfate-free cleanser to remove impurities without stripping your skin. Follow with regular moisturizing using pregnancy-safe ingredients like hyaluronic acid to maintain hydration. Finally, protect your skin daily with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen, reapplying as needed throughout the day.
Tips for Healthy Skin During Pregnancy
Beyond your product selection, several habits can help maintain healthy skin during pregnancy. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as adequate hydration supports skin elasticity and overall health. Incorporate skin-supporting foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins into your diet to nourish your skin from within.
Choose fragrance-free products to avoid unnecessary irritation, as pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to scents and chemicals. Before introducing any new product to your routine, perform a patch test to ensure your pregnancy-sensitive skin won’t react negatively. For significant skin concerns or persistent issues, don’t hesitate to consult with a dermatologist familiar with pregnancy-safe treatments.
When to Consult a Dermatologist
While many pregnancy skin changes are normal, consider speaking with a dermatologist if you experience severe acne that doesn’t respond to pregnancy-safe treatments, intense itching (which could indicate obstetric cholestasis, a liver condition), rashes or unexplained skin changes, or significant discomfort from skin issues.
The Bottom Line
Pregnancy doesn’t mean abandoning skincare—it simply requires thoughtful adjustments. By focusing on proven safe ingredients and avoiding potential risks, you can maintain healthy skin throughout your pregnancy journey.
For additional support during your pregnancy, explore our comprehensive pregnancy courses at Beginning Academy, where we offer expert guidance on every aspect of your pregnancy journey, including skincare and overall wellness.
Remember that while this information provides general guidelines, your obstetrician should always be consulted regarding specific product concerns during your pregnancy.