Best pregnancy-safe skincare
- Anjana Rajbhandary
- 15 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Pregnancy-safe skincare
There are many changes that occur in the appearance of your skin during pregnancy. You may have heard of the pregnancy glow, which is a result of changes in hormone levels that cause the glands on your face to secrete more oil, making you look more glowy. The quick increase in estrogen and progesterone can also cause dry patches, dark spots and itchy skin. But don't worry, because most of these new skin conditions will go away naturally after the baby is born.
It is important to take care of your skin during pregnancy, but ingredients like retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide should be avoided; they have possible links to birth defects.
You will have to make some lifestyle changes during pregnancy, such as avoiding certain foods and strenuous physical activity. Similarly, it is also recommended you change your skincare products, so they are safe for you and your baby.
Best pregnancy-safe skincare products (updated July 2025 from original)
Best cleanser to use during pregnancy
A gentle cleanser to protect your skin barrier while getting rid of makeup, dirt, oil and pollutants. It can also soften and soothe your skin.
Best exfoliant to use during pregnancy
Goat milk has lactic acid that brightens, and jojoba beads gently polish the skin to get rid of dead skin, minimize pores, and reveal radiant skin. This exfoliating cleanser is mild, yet powerful.
Best toner to use during pregnancy
Some people can experience dark spots during pregnancy, and this glycolic acid toner works hard to help lighten the discoloration. It can also help with uneven textures.
Best acne-fighting product to use during pregnancy
Known for the Mighty Patch, this rescue balm feels like a warm hug that nourishes your skin with panthenol while improving the look of blemishes.
Best vitamin C serum to use during pregnancy
"Mask of pregnancy" is a common term that refers to dark patches that develop on your skin due to increased pigmentation. This potent yet gentle serum has 15% L-ascorbic acid and ferulic acid to brighten your skin while lightening dark spots.
Best hyaluronic acid serum to use during pregnancy
Your skin might feel drier during pregnancy, so adding hyaluronic acid to your routine will resolve that issue. This vegan serum can provide deep hydration, and it does not contain alcohol, parabens, or sulfates.
Best retinol alternative to use during pregnancy
Retinol is unsafe to use during pregnancy, so instead use this bakuchiol serum, which has the same benefits as retinol without the risk of birth abnormalities. Bakuchiol can diminish fine lines and it also has tremella mushroom, great for keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized.
Best moisturizer to use during pregnancy
This moisturizer has marshmallow root, which has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, hyaluronic acid keeps your skin hydrated all day.
Best eye cream to use during pregnancy
Made with antioxidants, Centella Asiatica and vitamin C, this eye balm protects you against environmental stressors. It also has bearberry and licorice root to help brighten and depuff the area around your eyes.
Best body wash to use during pregnancy
This EWG-verified and pH-balanced body wash has 98.6% ingredients of natural origin to keep your skin nourished and radiant.
Best body moisturizer to use during pregnancy
This moisturizing lotion has coconut, sweet almond oil and shea butter to keep your skin hydrated, and omega fatty acids to improve skin’s elasticity. It does not have parabens, phthalates and synthetic fragrances.
Best for stretch marks to use during pregnancy
Stretch marks are common during pregnancy, so prevent them and keep your skin smooth by using this light oil. It has a blend of calendula, chamomile and lavender oils to keep your skin hydrated.
Best sunscreen to use during pregnancy
Chemical sunscreens have oxybenzone and avobenzone that may cause birth defects. Switch to this sunscreen, which provides 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays and gives you an oil-free, matte finish to last all day.
Pregnancy-safe skincare FAQ
Do all pregnancy skincare products need to be organic?
A. No, they do not. During pregnancy, you should choose products that are known to be "pregnancy-safe," because some organic brands still use ingredients you should avoid.
During the pregnancy, when should I change my products?
A. You should switch over to products safe for pregnancy if you are trying to get pregnant or as soon as you find out that you are pregnant.
Is it safe to use skincare products during pregnancy?
A. Yes, all products that are labeled "pregnancy-safe" can be used. Always consult a doctor before adding products to your skincare routine.
This article was originally published on Best Reviews and some products have been updated.
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