Pregnancy is a transformative period in a woman's life, bringing about numerous changes, both emotionally and physically. Among these changes, skin alterations are particularly common due to hormonal fluctuations. For expectant mothers, maintaining a skincare routine that prioritizes safety and efficacy is crucial. This article will get into the essential aspects of skincare during pregnancy, with a focus on clean beauty products, managing oily skin, and understanding the impact of ingredients on both mother and baby. We also will explore skincare considerations for mothers of color, who often experience higher rates of exposure to questionable ingredients, including parabens. Finally, we will provide practical tips and recommendations for maintaining healthy skin throughout pregnancy.
Clean beauty is a concept that's been getting a lot of attention and refers to products that are free from potentially harmful chemicals and toxins. These products prioritize natural and safe ingredients, avoiding parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and other harmful substances. One of the challenges for people who want to choose cleaner products is there are no industry standards to define exactly what is "clean beauty". For example, there are very specific production, chemical use and processing requirements for a product to be labeled "organic", but unfortunately those same standards don't exist to use "clean" for beauty and personal care, which means products can claim they are clean without the need for evidence of their safety -- which is a particular challenge for pregnant women. As expected, pregnancy is a time when a woman will be focused on choosing clean foods and products, as some ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream and interact with her developing baby.
It is very common for women to experience some skin changes during pregnancy, where skin becomes more sensitive and reactive and may develop discolorations due to hormonal changes. Women will likely be in search of solutions for their pregnancy-related skin changes, but must also balance concerns about the safety of the ingredients they are using plus increased sensitivity, which can make skin more prone to irritation, breakouts, and other issues. Using clean beauty products during pregnancy helps minimize the risk of adverse skin reactions and ensures that both mother and baby are not exposed to potentially harmful chemicals. As an added benefit, clean beauty products are often enriched with natural, nourishing ingredients that support skin health, which is also useful during this critical time.
Over 90% of women experience skin changes during their pregnancy. The most common questions we get about skincare in pregnancy relate to managing hyperpigmentation, acne and how to keep up with your anti-aging skin care routine. Other pre-existing skin conditions that can worsen during pregnancy or less common skin issues unique to pregnancy should be managed by a medical professional who can recommend effective and safe treatments. When managing the common skin conditions, pregnant women are looking for effective products that are also safe to use during pregnancy and can get guidance from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), which created a research-based categorization framework for drugs in 1979 to determine what's safe to use during pregnancy. The five categories they created are:
Category A: No risk to the fetus in human studies, and no evidence of risk in later trimesters.
Category B: No risk to the fetus in animal studies, but no adequate studies in humans.
Category C: Risk cannot be ruled out, but potential benefits may outweigh the risks.
Category D: Evidence of risk to the fetus in pregnant women, but potential benefits may outweigh the risks.
Category X: Contraindicated, as studies in pregnant women have shown risk to the fetus, and/or human or animal studies have shown fetal abnormalities.
Although the FDA system for categorizing drug safety in pregnancy was updated in 2014 , many still find the earlier system useful as a quick way to categorize risk with Category A products being safe to use in pregnancy, while Category X products are known to be high risk products. We'll use this system to discuss which skincare ingredients are safe to use during pregnancy.
This is the most common skin change in pregnancy affecting nearly all women, particularly women with darker skin tones.
One of the results of changes in hormones is increased levels of androgens, which cause skin to become more oily (and hairy!) and can cause worsening of acne.
Many women of child bearing age have skin care routines to prevent the signs of early aging and want to safely continue their routines while pregnant.
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns during pregnancy, affecting up to 90% of women, particularly those with darker skin tones. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs after a minor injury to the skin and is one source of darks marks, but the likelihood of getting these dark marks does not change during pregnancy. In contrast, the hyperpigmentation related to pregnancy is often due to hormonal changes that can lead to the development, or worsening of melasma (often called the "mask of pregnancy"). While these changes may fade after delivery, they can persist and become a source of frustration.
To minimize hyperpigmentation during pregnancy, it's essential to combine safe treatment options with preventive measures such as:
Sun Protection: Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal.
Gentle Exfoliation: Incorporate mild AHAs like lactic or glycolic acid to help renew skin and fade dark spots.
Moisturization and Hydration: Keep your skin well-moisturized with pregnancy-safe products to support your skin’s barrier function and reduce irritation.
Postpartum Care: Many pigmentation issues improve after pregnancy. However, if they persistent, consult a dermatologist who can provide guidance on additional treatments including peels, laser treatments and other ingredient combinations that are safe treatments after you have delivered and finished breastfeeding.
To manage hyperpigmentation during pregnancy safely, it is important to understand which ingredients effectively address pigmentation issues without posing risks to both the mother and her developing baby. Below is an overview of key ingredients to consider.
How they work: AHAs, such as glycolic and lactic acid, help to exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover, which can gradually fade dark spots and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone.
Safety: AHAs are considered safe to use in pregnancy at concentrations up to 10% with a pH above 3.5. Glycolic acid, in particular, has a good safety profile for pregnant women when used in low concentrations.
How it works: Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid made from grains that inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. It helps reduce dark spots and melasma by blocking the production of excess pigment.
Safety: Azelaic acid is classified as a Category B ingredient by the FDA, meaning it's generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. It has minimal systemic absorption, making it a preferred treatment option for hyperpigmentation in pregnant women.
How it works: Tranexamic acid works by inhibiting the interaction between melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) and keratinocytes, thereby reducing melanin synthesis and lightening areas of hyperpigmentation. It has been shown to be effective for melasma and other pigment-related conditions.
Safety: Topical tranexamic acid is a Category B ingredient and is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy as it is minimally absorbed through the skin. However, oral tranexamic acid is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
How it works: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is a potent antioxidant that can brighten skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots by inhibiting melanin production. It also protects skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure.
Safety: Vitamin C is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when applied topically.
How it works: Cysteamine is an antioxidant that reduces melanin production by inhibiting an enzyme involved in melanin synthesis. It is primarily used for hyperpigmentation conditions like melasma and generally helps reduce dark spots to even out skin tone.
Safety: Cysteamine is a Category C ingredient with limited data regarding its safety during pregnancy. Due to the lack of extensive research, it is recommended to avoid cysteamine during pregnancy.
How it works: Hydroquinone is a powerful skin-lightening agent that reduces pigmentation by inhibiting melanin production. However, its systemic absorption is high, and the FDA recently removed it from over the counter use, which means it can only be obtained with a physician prescription.
Safety: Hydroquinone is classified as a Category C ingredient by the FDA, meaning its safety in pregnancy has not been well established. Given its high absorption rate, it is best to avoid hydroquinone during pregnancy.
How it works: Kojic acid is another tyrosinase inhibitor that reduces melanin production. However, it has limited data regarding its safety in pregnancy.
Safety: While there have been no reported risks in animal studies, kojic acid has not been thoroughly studied in humans during pregnancy yet for physicians to make a definitive recommendation. Since there are many, well studied, alternative ingredients available, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using kojic acid until additional research is done.
How they work: Retinoids, such as tretinoin and retinol, are often used to treat melasma and other pigmentation disorders by increasing cell turnover and promoting skin renewal.
Safety: Retinoids are classified as Category C by the FDA, and their use during pregnancy is discouraged. Different studies have shown different results on the safety of retinoids, with small studies reporting an increased risk of congenital malformations, but larger prospective studies found no differences in risk. Since there are effective alternatives for treating hyperpigmentation, it is safest to avoid retinoids during pregnancy.
Acne is another common skin concern during pregnancy, with many women experiencing an increase in breakouts due to hormonal fluctuations. These hormonal changes can trigger an overproduction of oil, leading to clogged pores and inflammation. While some may notice acne flare-ups during pregnancy, others may see their skin clear up. Managing acne during pregnancy requires a careful approach, balancing effective treatments with safety considerations for you and your baby. By choosing pregnancy-safe options and avoiding known risks, you can achieve clearer skin while maintaining peace of mind. The key to managing acne during this time is to focus on gentle skincare that won’t irritate your skin. Proper skincare steps to help keep acne under control during pregnancy include:
Focus on Gentle Treatments: Pregnancy is a time to prioritize gentle, effective treatments that won’t harm you or your baby. Azelaic acid, topical antibiotics (erythromycin, clindamycin), and low concentration glycolic or lactic acid can help keep acne under control without posing risks.
Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Topical retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, and products with high systemic absorption should be avoided. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new acne treatment.
Moisturize: Use gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizers to help maintain your skin barrier, especially if you are using drying treatments like benzoyl peroxide.
Sun Protection: Many acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
Some commonly used acne treatments may not be safe during pregnancy, while others are considered effective and safe. Below is a guide to understanding the different treatment options, how they work, and their safety profile for use during pregnancy.
How they work: We mentioned these versatile ingredients above for treating hyperpigmentation, but they also help with acne and work by exfoliating the skin and increasing cell turnover, which helps reduce acne.
Safety: Glycolic acid is considered safe to use in pregnancy in low concentrations due to its minimal absorption. While studies on glycolic acid use in pregnancy are limited, no adverse effects have been reported. It is best to avoid high concentrations and excessive use, but the levels of glycolic acid you can get without a prescription will keep you in the safe range.
How it works: Azelaic acid is another ingredient with multiple skin benefits, which helps with acne due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and comedolytic (prevents clogged pores) properties. It is an excellent option for treating both acne and hyperpigmentation, as it helps reduce dark spots while also treating breakouts.
Safety: Azelaic acid is considered safe for use during pregnancy due to its low systemic absorption and minimal risk of side effects. It’s often a top choice for treating acne in pregnant women and works beautifully on sensitive skin.
How it works: Benzoyl peroxide is an over-the-counter treatment that works by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. It is absorbed minimally through the skin and is rapidly metabolized and excreted by the kidneys.
Safety: Although classified as Category C by the FDA due to the lack of extensive studies in pregnant women, benzoyl peroxide in concentrations up to 10% is considered safe for pregnancy because of its minimal absorption and rapid clearance from the body.
How they work: Topical erythromycin and clindamycin are antibiotics that reduce bacteria on the skin, targeting inflammatory acne. They are often used in combination with other treatments to enhance effectiveness.
Safety: Both erythromycin and clindamycin are classified as Category B drugs by the FDA, meaning they are considered safe for use during pregnancy with no reports of birth defects having reported after their use.
It is worth noting that if you are taking any oral antibiotics, particularly those related to tetracycline, you should check with your doctor as soon as you learn you are pregnant.
This article is focused on ingredients that are available without a prescription to help you make safe choices when selecting products for yourself. But we are going to include some ingredients in the next section that are only available with a prescription so you can make sure your doctors are aware you are pregnant if they want to prescribe these items.
How it works: Dapsone is an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent that is available by prescription only and is used treat acne. It is available as a topical gel and has minimal systemic absorption compared to oral formulations.
Safety: Dapsone is classified as Category C due to the lack of controlled human studies and potential risks, such as hemolytic anemia, particularly in patients with G6PD deficiency. While it can be used with caution early in pregnancy, it is generally not a first-line treatment for acne during pregnancy and is not recommended for use in the last three months of pregnancy.
How they work: Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and have been widely used to treat acne for decades. They are available both with and without a prescription at different concentrations and work by increasing cell turnover and preventing clogged pores. However, these ingredients can be absorbed into the skin, raising concerns about fetal development because they are similar to Vitamin A which can cause fetal malformations when used in excessive amounts.
Safety for Tretinoin and Adapalene: These are both classified as Category C, meaning their safety during pregnancy is uncertain. Studies have not conclusively shown that topical retinoids cause birth defects. Despite the lack of definitive studies showing harm, many physicians advise to avoid topical retinoids during pregnancy as a precaution.
Safety for Tazarotene: This retinoid is available by prescription only and is classified as Category X, meaning it has been shown to cause birth defects in animal studies and should be strictly avoided in pregnancy.
How it works: Accutane, or isotretinoin, is a powerful prescription medication used to treat severe acne by reducing oil production in the skin, preventing clogged pores, and promoting skin renewal. It is typically used when other acne treatments have not been successful and is taken orally.
Safety: Accutane is classified as Category X due to its high risk of causing severe birth defects. It should never be used during pregnancy, and women of childbearing age who are prescribed Accutane must follow strict birth control measures and participate in a pregnancy prevention program. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to avoid Accutane entirely.
How it works: Salicylic acid is a common over-the-counter acne treatment that works by exfoliating the skin and unclogging pores. However, when used topically, its absorption can vary based on the concentration and the area of application.
Safety: Salicylic acid is classified as Category C, and high doses have been linked to birth defects in animal studies. While topical application is considered safe when used in low concentrations up to 2%, it’s important to avoid using it in large quantities or on large areas of the body, like your back or chest. Pregnant women should avoid products with concentrations of salicylic acid that are more than 2%.
One of the most common concerns during pregnancy is how to continue an effective anti-aging regimen while ensuring the safety of the baby. With so many products on the market, it can feel overwhelming to figure out which ones are safe, and which should be avoided. The good news is that there are several effective, pregnancy-safe ingredients that can help manage common signs of aging, including dark marks, fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity, all while prioritizing the health of both you and your unborn child.
We have already discussed ingredients like retinol and high concentration AHAs and BHAs, which are pillars of anti-aging skincare but are best avoided when pregnant. Fortunately, there are many effective and safe alternatives. By making thoughtful choices about the ingredients in your skincare routine during pregnancy, you can continue to care for your skin and maintain a youthful glow while safeguarding your baby’s well-being. If you're ever unsure about a specific product or ingredient, consulting with your healthcare provider is always a good idea to ensure you’re taking the best steps for both you and your child during this special time.
Here are some timeless skincare basics and key steps for creating a safe and effective anti-aging skincare routine during pregnancy.
Focus on Antioxidants: Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid can help protect your skin from environmental damage and free radicals, which are key contributors to aging. These ingredients are safe and effective for use during pregnancy.
Keep Skin Hydrated: A good moisturizer that supports your skin barrier will help maintain elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which attract moisture to the skin without posing any risks.
Avoid Harsh Treatments: Pregnancy is not the time to try new aggressive exfoliants or treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy, as these can cause skin irritation and sensitivity -- especially during pregnancy. Stick to gentle exfoliants like lactic acid in concentrations below 10%
Protect Against UV Damage: Sun exposure is a major cause of premature aging. Use a broad-spectrum, pregnancy-safe sunscreen (mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
In addition to a good skincare routine, here are some key anti-aging ingredients that are safe to use during pregnancy and how they work. Fortunately, there are many options available to safely maintain your preventive skincare routine while pregnant.
How it works: Bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol that offers similar anti-aging benefits without irritation or concerns about use during pregnancy. It stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also improving skin firmness and elasticity. Bakuchiol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective for calming redness and evening out skin tone, as well as reducing hyperpigmentation.
Safety: Bakuchiol is considered safe for use during pregnancy. Unlike retinol, which is not recommended for pregnant women, bakuchiol provides gentle, retinol-like effects without causing sensitivity or posing any known risks to the developing baby. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to maintain youthful skin during pregnancy.
How they work: Ceramides are essential lipids that naturally occur in the skin, forming a critical part of the skin’s protective barrier. They help retain moisture, protect against environmental stressors, and support overall skin health. By reinforcing the skin's barrier, ceramides prevent water loss, keeping the skin hydrated and resilient. This is especially important during pregnancy, as skin can become more sensitive and prone to dryness. Using ceramides can help maintain smooth, supple, and healthy skin by locking in moisture and strengthening the skin’s natural defenses.
Safety: Ceramides are considered completely safe for use during pregnancy. Since they are naturally found in the skin and work to restore its outer barrier, they pose no risk to a developing baby. Ceramides are an excellent choice for pregnant women looking to keep their skin moisturized and healthy without worrying about safety.
How it works: Coenzyme Q10 (or Ubiquinone) is another ingredient that is produced naturally in the body and is a key component in energy production within skin cells. It acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV radiation. CoQ10 helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles by supporting collagen production.
Safety: Since CoQ10 is produced endogenously (by the body), using it topically is considered safe during pregnancy. It does not pose any risks to the mother or baby, making it an excellent choice for anti-aging care during pregnancy.
How it works: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that plays a key role in maintaining moisture levels. It acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin and holding it there, which helps to keep the skin hydrated, plump, and supple. By improving skin hydration, hyaluronic acid can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhancing overall skin texture and elasticity. It’s particularly beneficial for dry or sensitive skin, which can be common during pregnancy.
Safety: Hyaluronic acid is considered safe to use during pregnancy. Since it is naturally found in the body and works on the skin’s surface to attract moisture, it does not penetrate deeply or affect the developing baby. Hyaluronic acid is a gentle, effective option for pregnant women looking to maintain skin hydration and combat early signs of aging while prioritizing the health of their baby.
How it works: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a versatile ingredient that helps improve skin texture by minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. It strengthens the skin’s barrier function, which helps to retain moisture, reduces inflammation, and calms redness. Niacinamide also regulates oil production and has brightening effects, making it effective in treating hyperpigmentation and evening out skin tone.
Safety: Niacinamide is safe for use during pregnancy. It is a non-irritating, water-soluble vitamin that works well for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Since it is not known to cause any harm to the developing baby, it’s a great choice for maintaining healthy, balanced skin during pregnancy.
How it works: Matrixyl 3000 is a peptide complex that supports skin rejuvenation by stimulating collagen and elastin production. These peptides work by signaling to skin cells to repair themselves, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Over time, Matrixyl 3000 can improve skin elasticity and texture, promoting a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion. It’s often used in anti-aging formulas due to its ability to visibly reduce signs of aging without irritation.
Safety: Matrixyl 3000 is considered safe to use during pregnancy. As a topical peptide, it works on the skin’s surface and does not penetrate deeply into the body or bloodstream, meaning it does not pose a risk to a developing baby. For those looking to maintain an anti-aging routine while pregnant, Matrixyl 3000 is a gentle, effective option for addressing skin firmness and wrinkles safely.
How it works: Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in plants like grapes and berries. It is known for its strong antioxidant properties, helping to fight free radical damage and reduce inflammation in the skin. Resveratrol can also help improve skin texture and slow down the aging process by preserving collagen and elastin.
Safety: Topical resveratrol is safe for use during pregnancy, but oral supplements should be avoided, as the studies on expected impacts on the fetus are still being conducted and there are not yet enough results to make a definitive, safe recommendation. Instead, stick to resveratrol in skincare formulations to harness its benefits safely.
How it works: We already mentioned vitamin C, which is safe to use during pregnancy for hyperpigmentation and anti-aging. Vitamin E is another antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals. It helps prevent lipid peroxidation (damage to fats in the skin cells), which can contribute to premature aging. Vitamin E also supports the skin’s moisture barrier, making it helpful in keeping skin hydrated and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Safety: Topical vitamin E is safe to use during pregnancy. It’s a naturally occurring antioxidant in the body and does not carry any risks to the baby when applied to the skin.
We've mentioned the importance of sunscreen as part of managing many skin concerns during pregnancy, including hyperpigmentation and anti-aging. Pregnant women should look for mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide because they provide effective, gentle protection from harmful UV rays without the risk of irritating sensitive skin. Many women find that chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and convert them to heat, can trigger reactions like stinging or breakouts. In contrast, mineral sunscreens sit on the skin’s surface and physically block UV rays, making them a much better option for reactive or sensitive skin.
One common drawback of mineral sunscreens is the white cast they can leave on the skin, which is especially noticeable for people with darker skin tones. Fortunately, tinted mineral sunscreens, made with iron oxides, help minimize this white cast and provide the added benefit of protecting the skin from blue light, a contributor to hyperpigmentation. The dual protection of mineral sunscreen and iron oxides make tinted sunscreens a great option for maintaining an even complexion and an essential part of a healthy skincare routine during pregnancy.
Our Daily Hydrating Moisturizing Cream with SPF 40 is a lightweight, tinted formula that provides superior protection and nourishment for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Designed with a range of skin tones in mind, this multitasking cream combines hydration, sun protection, and light coverage into one effortless step.
Our Tinted Moisturizing Cream with SPF Offers:
SPF 40 Broad-Spectrum Protection
Blocks Blue Light
No White Cast
Powerful Antioxidants
Nourishing Ingredients
With the information we’ve provided here, you now have the tools to make informed decisions about your skincare routine during pregnancy. From understanding the importance of mineral sunscreen to choosing gentle, effective ingredients that protect and nourish your skin, you can prioritize both your health and that radiant pregnancy glow. By reading your labels and following these simple steps, you’ll be able to manage common skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and acne, while keeping healthy throughout your pregnancy journey.
AbsoluteJOI is a physician-founded skin care brand with a science-based approach to the needs of people over 35 with all skin types and tones. Developed by physician researcher, Dr. Anne Beal, our products are formulated and tested for sensitive skin, while addressing dyspigmentation, the first sign of aging for many people. Our philosophy is not to focus on anti-aging, but to celebrate all ages and stages and to help our customers age beautifully, while celebrating the confidence and wisdom they’ve gained with time.
Each product combines natural and clinically effective ingredients for healthy skin. We use NO parabens, phthalates, sulphates, or skin bleach. And we use no perfumes or dyes to offer pure and clean products good for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
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