Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid When Pregnant
Retinoids. It’s recommended that products such as Avage, Differin, Renova, Retin-A, retinols, retinyl palmitate and Tazorac be completely avoided. While very little of the ingredient gets absorbed into your skin, studies have suggested a possible link to birth defects.
Tetracycline. This antibiotic acne treatment can affect the development of baby’s teeth and bones.
Hydroquinone. Between 34 to 45 percent of hydroquinone—a skin-whitening agent—is systemically absorbed into your body when applied topically. While current studies don’t show a distinct link between hydroquinone during pregnancy and an increased risk of adverse effects, it’s best to avoid.
Salicylic acid. While local and limited use of topical acne-fighting products that contain up to 2 percent of salicylic acid are low-risk for baby, dermatologists still suggest avoiding it.
Benzoyl peroxide. The safety of using benzoyl peroxide to treat acne during pregnancy has yet to be established. Consult your physician before using products with this active ingredient.
Oxybenzone and octinoxate. These ingredients, often found in chemical sunscreens, can cause potential harm to the development of the baby’s nervous system. Engelman recommends a mineral sunscreen as a safe alternative.
Essential oils. Engelman advises pregnant people to avoid products containing essential oils, as some have the potential to induce uterine contractions.
Best Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Brands
Juice Beauty: Juice Beauty offers organic, antioxidant-rich skin care—including a wide selection of products deemed safe for pregnant moms. From oil-free moisturizers and anti-wrinkle creams to acne treatments and complexion correctors, the gentle formulas cater to every skin type. Is it any wonder this brand won a Best of Pregnancy award in 2022?
Honest: Amp up that pregnancy glow with Honest. The line of pregnancy skin care includes cleansers, moisturizers, serums and eye creams—basically everything you need to build a daily self-care routine. Bonus: Get 15 percent off your purchase with code THEBUMP.
True Botanicals: True Botanicals creates vegan, cruelty-free and GMO-free skin care. Better yet, all of the products carry the Made Safe seal, meaning they’re free from over 6,500 toxic chemicals known to harm humans and the environment. Browse the brand’s curated collection of pregnancy-safe skin care products to find your perfect match.
