Safe Skincare During Pregnancy: What to Use & What to Avoid (From a Master Esthetician + Certified Doula)
Let’s talk pregnancy-safe skincare — because your skin doesn’t stop needing love just because you’re growing a human.
As a licensed esthetician and certified birth doula, I’ve worked with so many expecting clients who feel overwhelmed by all the ingredient warnings out there. Your body is already changing enough — skincare shouldn’t add more stress.
So let me help you simplify it! :)
What to AVOID During Pregnancy
These ingredients are best avoided due to potential risks:
Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tazorac):
Can be absorbed into the bloodstream and linked to birth defects in high doses.Salicylic Acid (especially in high doses):
Low concentrations (<2%) may be okay in spot treatments, but check with your provider.Hydroquinone:
Absorbs easily into the body — best to steer clear during pregnancy.Benzoyl Peroxide:
There's limited safety data; some providers give the okay in small amounts, others advise against it.Essential Oils in high concentrations:
Some oils (like clary sage or rosemary) should be avoided — especially in the first trimester.
Safe & Soothing Ingredients to Use
Here are ingredients I recommend to clients for glowing, calm skin during pregnancy:
Hyaluronic Acid
Lightweight hydration that plumps the skin without irritation.Niacinamide
Brightens, reduces redness, and is anti-inflammatory — gentle and effective.Azelaic Acid
A safe acne-fighter that also helps with pigmentation.Zinc-based SPF (aka physical sunscreens)
Pregnancy can trigger melasma — protect with mineral-based sunblock daily.Vitamin C
Supports collagen and brightens dull, hormonal skin (stick to gentle forms like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate).Mandelic Acid
A gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds, mandelic acid helps with hormonal acne, clogged pores, and dull skin.
Gentle Cleansers & Moisturizers
Look for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas that support your skin barrier.
🧴 Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Favorites
These are some gentle, pregnancy-friendly picks I love or recommend in my spa studio:
🫶 Bonus Tip: Be Kind to Yourself
Your skin is working overtime — and some breakouts or sensitivity are completely normal. Don’t stress if you don’t “glow” every day. Choose products that feel gentle and grounding, and treat your skincare time as a moment to reconnect with yourself.
If you ever feel unsure, ask your esthetician or midwife — and trust that it’s okay to keep things simple. You deserve care, too.
🌼 Affiliate Note:
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). I only share products I personally use, love, or would recommend to clients in my spa studio. Your support helps keep Bee Well Living going — thank you! 💛
