When pregnant, there’s a laundry list of things you shouldn’t do: foregoing foods (sushi, cold cuts and types of mozzarella cheese, to list a few) and types of exercise (high-impact, 5K marathon training).
Interestingly, there’s also a pregnancy skincare routine you should be following — and with that, certain products and ingredients you should avoid for those nine months.
“Skincare as well as the medications we use and the foods/drinks we consume are different in pregnancy and while nursing because of the potential effects on a developing fetus or nursing baby,” Lucky Sekhon, MD, a reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist and double board-certified OBGYN, told the New York Post. “We avoid products containing medications or chemicals that can be teratogenic and predispose to birth defects and/or toxicity to the fetus and baby.”
Click to jump to the best pregnancy-safe skincare products:
What skin care products are safe to use during pregnancy?
According to Dr. Sekhon, using a gentle cleanser on the face that doesn’t contain harsh products like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid is key. “Using a non-fragrance containing moisturizer or night cream is good, too,” she adds. “I’m more of a minimalist and have a two-step evening skincare routine.”
You can also use a gentle exfoliant, too, according to Dr. Sekhon.
What skincare should I avoid during pregancy?
Dr. Sekhon lists the active ingredients you should avoid — and why you should be staying away from them — while you’re expecting:
- Retin-A, retinol: These are vitamin A derivatives that can cause birth defects in pregnancy. Vitamin A can be safe in small doses for the baby but using these compounds can lead to excess exposure that is dangerous.
- Tazorac/Accutane: These are also vitamin A derivatives that are even more potent. They can also cause birth defects.
- Hydroquinone: This is a category C medication, which means lack of human safety data or some evidence of adverse impact in animal studies. It has a higher rate of absorption than other topical chemicals.
- Formaldehyde: This is used as a preservative in some nail polishes and hair products – and has been linked to fertility issues and miscarriages. Always ask nail technicians and hair stylists about whether the products they are using contain formaldehyde and avoid while pregnant.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: This is commonly found in acne medications and can be a bit too harsh during pregnancy.
- Salicylic Acid: More research needs to be determined about salicylic acid use during pregnancy, so it’s best to avoid the ingredient altogether.
Best Skincare for Pregnancy
The below products were selected based on a careful examination of ingredients, keeping in mind the active ingredients that are not recommended to use during pregnancy and nursing stages.
1. Youth To The People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser, $36
As one of the most refreshing cleansers you’ll ever meet, the Youth To The People’s Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser is one of the best value picks you’ll find. Not only does it contain kale and green tea in its active ingredients (hence the name: superfood), but it’s pump is fairly large for the price.
2. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant, $34
The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is less than $35 and is great for all skin types. Better yet, it helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles and has a lightweight finish.
3. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum, $8 to $13
For a beauty grab under $15, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum is a refreshing potion-like bottle to stock up on. Its hyaluronic acid ingredient makes your skin more supple and it’s also a vegan formulation.
4. Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Gel Cream, $38 to $45
The Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Gel Cream is a lovely, hydrating option that’ll make your skin feel marshmallow-soft. Plus, its vitamin C ingredient helps make your skin appear brighter and more awake.
5. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration, $38
OK, we need to turn you on to the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration. For less than $40, you’ll snag a giant tub (which is impeccable for dry skin, especially) and its even great for sensitive skin and eczema-prone skin.
6. Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36, $15
For just $15, the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen is a best-selling option that’s recommended for use every day. It’s safe to use when you’re pregnant and nursing and is great for on the go.
For more options, check out our guide to the best facial sunscreens.
7. Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm, $36
Looking for an A+ makeup remover? The Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm is one of our favorites and so, so creamy. It’ll be the best product you order from this list, without a shadow of a doubt.
For more options, check out our expert-backed guide to the best makeup removers.
8. Summer Fridays Dream Oasis Deep Hydration Serum, $44
As its name suggests, the Summer Fridays Dream Oasis Deep Hydration Serum is a dream oasis. It contains hyaluronic acid, is fragrance-free and great for redness. Essentially, it’s a multi-purpose winner.
9. Caudalie Pore Minimizing Instant Detox Mask, $39
After reviewing dozens of face masks, the Caudalie Pore Minimizing Instant Detox Mask is unmatched. It went viral on TikTok and it’ll leave your skin baby soft and smooth.
10. Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream, $69
If you’re looking for rich moisture, there’s no other option than the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream. Not only does it come in elegant packaging but its packed with hyaluronic acid and is a Clean at Sephora product.
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