“Hormones fluctuate significantly during pregnancy, which can cause many changes in the skin. Some concerns include hyperpigmentation (including melasma), acne, dry skin, and stretch marks,” explains Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. You don’t have to toss out your entire arsenal of products when you’re pregnant, but there are definitely ingredients you want to avoid, says Dr. Yadav. The top two are retinol, either over-the-counter or prescription, and salicylic acid. Both are harmful during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, she tells us. Pregnant people often prefer to stay away from products with fragrance, because the smell can exacerbate morning sickness and/or because it can be an allergen. As for parabens, while the FDA still states that there is no conclusive evidence that these preservatives are harmful to humans, some choose to avoid this category of ingredients because of studies showing their possible estrogenic effects. Read on for the best products for your skin while pregnant, chosen with the expertise of a panel of board-certified dermatologists from around the country. Rub the oil on your stomach and breasts during late pregnancy and postpartum if you have concerns about stretch marks. This affordable oil has a gentle fragrance. Price at time of publication: $13 The texture is thick and creamy, which might or might not be to your taste. Just mix a bit with warm water and rub over your face, you’ll find that this cleanser will leave your pores feeling clean and clear. It’s formulated with Ceramide-3, an essential ceramide naturally found in skin; glycerin, a moisturizing agent that naturally attracts water to skin; and niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 with soothing properties. Together, they help make this an easy-to-love cleanser that will help your skin survive pregnancy hormones. Price at time of publication: $15 As our expert dermatologist notes, this cleanser is “gentle and effective” with a hydrating gel formula containing hyaluronic acid. This ingredient is safe and proven to increase skin’s hydration, leaving skin feeling refreshingly clean and supple, every time you cleanse. If you’re suffering from dry skin due to hormonal changes, or seeing redness, this moisture bomb of a cleanser boosts hydration while cleaning your skin and removing makeup. Price at time of publication: $9 Cetaphil’s entire line is gentle and well-priced, and the pH balanced, fragrance-free formula is hypoallergenic, so it won’t irritate even the most sensitive skin. You can use this product like a cold cream, applying it to remove makeup and then wiping the product off with a cloth, or lather up like a traditional facial wash. Both methods are effective; it comes down to personal preference. Price at time of publication: Starting at $12 If animal testing is a concern, the beauty bar is certified cruelty free and has the cleansing efficacy and care you need. The beauty bar hydrates very well, but you may need to cleanse twice or pair it with a makeup remover, depending on how much long-lasting makeup you’re wearing. Price at time of publication: Starting at $2 This sunscreen is particularly great for pregnant people because the oil-free formulation calms acne-prone skin. If you’re struggling with breakouts, this sunscreen won’t make it worse, and it’s also free of any ingredients that might harm your baby. Price at time of publication: $37 This product fights dullness and dryness with moisturizing hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3), and it feels absolutely luxurious to apply. Price at time of publication: $34 If you’ve been prone to stretch marks in the past, or they run in your family, this well-priced body butter should help improve their appearance. Start using the product early in your pregnancy, and turn it into a relaxing ritual to bond with your developing baby. Price at time of publication: Starting at $9 This dermatologist-recommended moisturizer utilizes a combination of organic acids to visibly improve the appearance of unwanted dark spots for a more even, radiant skin tone, leaving skin soft and hydrated. Gentle enough for everyday use, it’s a balm for sensitive pregnancy skin without any of the ingredients you don’t want. Price at time of publication: $70 Not only can the lightweight cream suspension help with acne, it’s perfect for those looking for solutions for dullness, uneven tone and textural irregularities—all of which can plague people during different stages of pregnancy. This cream is cruelty-, fragrance-, and paraben-free, as well as vegan. Apply it in the morning before putting on sunscreen, or at night, before moisturizer. Price at time of publication: $25 Dermatologist-tested and held to high safety standards, these sheet masks from BioRepublic are infused with fruit extracts, lactic acid, and vitamin C to help reduce breakouts and keep your skin hydrated and clear. With a mild lemon scent, these masks are cruelty-free and made without parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. Plus, they’re made of biodegradable vegetable fiber, which is better for the planet—which means a better future for your baby. Price at time of publication: $24
What to Look for in Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Products
Ingredients
For pregnancy-friendly products, the crucial thing is to avoid a few specific ingredients. “The number one skincare ingredient to avoid is retinol, either in its over-the-counter form or in a prescription-strength retinoid product, such as Retin-A,” says Dr. Yadav. “This vitamin A derivative should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can be harmful to the baby. Others that should be avoided include salicylic acid, a common ingredient in acne treatments.”
Science-Backed Claims
Look for ingredients that deliver on science-based claims, that your dermatologist or our experts recommend, such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and cocoa and shea butter. Always check with your doctor if you’re trying something with an unfamiliar ingredients.
Fragrance
When you are pregnant, your sense of smell can be heightened. This can mean that smells that you never noticed before are right in your face and overwhelming, and it’s important to consider that when shopping for new products. Most of the time you might think it’s no big deal, but many pregnant people report gagging or becoming ill over a smell in the area, so you may want to stick with unscented products.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Tanya Edwards is an experienced parents, food, beauty, and health journalist who has been writing and editing parenting and beauty stories for over a decade. She’s obsessed with ingredient lists and skincare that actually does what it promises, and loves to talk to experts about what products are best for every person’s body. “The most important ingredient to avoid in skin care while pregnant are retinoids. This family of medications, often seen in anti-aging creams or serums are considered Category X,” says Dr. Alston.“This means they are well known to cause birth defects. There are many OTC retinoids available and even these should be avoided during pregnancy.” While it’s important to be mindful, you don’t have to quit your skincare routine just because you’re pregnant. “It is still OK to maintain a general skincare routine and continue with regular use of gentle cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreen, though some prefer to opt for mineral sunscreens which are physical blockers containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. In general, [with] any product you are using, you should double-check with your obstetrician to make sure it’s considered safe in pregnancy,” Dr. Garshick says. There are also some pregnancy-safe options for breakouts and blemishes, so it is best to speak with a board-certified dermatologist to determine what would be best for you.
