Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Isn't a Needle in a Haystack as Long as You Know This

Honestly, I find myself overwhelmed by the world of skincare enough as it is, but it seems to be even worse if you're pregnant. So many labels on my everyday skincare products say "Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding," and I wonder what exactly you can use during a pregnancy. I don't have any children yet and probably won't any time super soon, but I'd like to be prepared and have expert advice handy for when the time does roll around. If you're pregnant, nursing, or are just like me and want to be prepared, keep scrolling! I asked two board-certified dermatologists for a full rundown on the best pregnancy-safe skincare.

There are quite a few ingredients derms say you should avoid if you're pregnant, and board-certified dermatologists Divya Shokeen, MD, and Lauren Penzi, MD, shared a list of the top five ingredients. 

Retinoids: Both derms agree that retinoids should be avoided. Even if you're using a non-prescription retinol, it might be better to exercise caution and forego that for the duration of your pregnancy.

"Prescription retinoids, such as isotretinoin and tretinoin, should be avoided, as they have been associated with birth defects. Over-the-counter retinol products are also best to be avoided due to the potential risk they may pose." — Shokeen

Salicylic Acid: "While low concentrations of salicylic acid in skincare products are generally considered safe, it's best to avoid high concentrations or peels, as they can potentially be absorbed systemically." — Shokeen

Hydroquinone: Both Penzi and Shokeen agree that hydroquinone should be left out of your routine.

"This skin-lightening ingredient is often used to treat hyperpigmentation, but its safety during pregnancy is uncertain and best avoided." — Shokeen

Formaldehyde: "Found in some nail hardeners and hair-straightening treatments, formaldehyde is best avoided due to potential toxicity concerns." — Shokeen

Chemical Sunscreen: Penzi says it's best to avoid chemical sunscreens that contain ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, cinoxate, and more. To be safe, stick with a mineral sunscreen that only contains ingredients like zinc oxide.

I know. It's hard to ditch the retinol and salicylic acid, especially if you have acne. But don't worry. Penzi and Shokeen provided an alternative list of ingredients that are A-okay for pregnant people. First, they both recommend sticking to mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They also say that gentle and soothing skincare formulations tailored to sensitive skin will work well since pregnant people often experience increased skin sensitivity. Safe ingredients include…

Clindamycin: "Available as a prescription, clindamycin comes in pads, gel, a cream, etc., and is a topical antibiotic that fights acne-causing bacteria." — Penzi

Benzoyl Peroxide: This ingredient is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and reduces oil production. A word of caution with this one, though, as it can be drying and irritating to sensitive skin.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): "Mandelic, lactic, and glycolic acid are safe for use in pregnancy in lower strengths (i.e. glycolic acid less than 10%)." — Penzi

Azelaic Acid: Safe and versatile, azelaic acid can help fight acne as well as hyperpigmentation and rosacea.

Bakuchiol: Bakuchiol is a natural retinol alternative that has been shown to boost collagen, diminish wrinkles, and combat hyperpigmentation and acne.

Vitamin C: This antioxidant helps prevent oxidative damage from UV rays.

Below, find a few of Penzi's and Shokeen's favorite pregnancy-safe skincare products.