Finding out that you’re pregnant can bring all sorts of emotions. For some, that includes a sudden panic about whether or not their beloved skincare routine is still baby-safe.
Research shows that around 76% of expectant mothers make at least one change to their skincare product purchasing habits when they find out they’re expecting.
And if you’ve spent months or years building the perfect routine, switching out even one product can be a big deal!
The good news is that you can create a pregnancy-safe skincare routine without settling for bland, basic products. It's all about making smart swaps and learning which ingredients support your changing skin and keep your baby safe.
How Does Pregnancy Impact Your Skin?
With pregnancy comes a lot of changes. Surging hormones can trigger that coveted "pregnancy glow" – but it can also cause frustrating breakouts and melasma patches.
Some expecting mothers find that their skin dries out much more quickly, while others find that their oil production goes into overtime.
Don’t panic. These changes are just signals that your skin's adapting to the process. While each individual will have unique responses to a pregnancy (some even changing pregnancy to pregnancy), the most common pregnancy skin changes include:
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Increased oil production leading to breakouts
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Hyperpigmentation and dark patches (melasma)
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Heightened sensitivity and dryness
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Stretch marks as skin expands
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Spider veins and increased redness
Taking the time to track these changes closely can help you make skincare product choices that address the temporary issues without interrupting your ongoing routine.
What Skincare Ingredients are Safe for Pregnancy?
Vitamin C
During pregnancy, Vitamin C should become a go-to in your skincare routine. This antioxidant works to brighten your skin and protect against free radical damage without risk to the baby.
Peptides
Another key ingredient that is safe during pregnancy is peptides. These amino acid chains support collagen production and skin firmness without the risks associated with retinoids.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide is a multitasking ingredient that can help with skin concerns ranging from acne to hyperpigmentation. It works with your skin’s natural systems to strengthen the skin barrier and regulate oil production – addressing multiple pregnancy skin concerns at once.
Hyaluronic Acid
Did you know that hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water? It’s true! This makes hyaluronic acid excellent for hydrating your skin during pregnancy – when skin is more prone to dry out quickly.
Natural Oils and Butters
Pure plant oils like sunflower seed oil, argan oil, and shea butter offer great benefits for skin, especially when you’re pregnant. You can even find baby-safe ingredients in nipple creams, which are great for nursing and treating dry patches on your skin during and after pregnancy.
What Ingredients Should You Avoid During Pregnancy?
Retinoids/Retinol
When looking at pregnancy-safe ingredients to add to your skincare routine, make sure to avoid all forms of vitamin A. This includes prescription tretinoin and over-the-counter retinol. When in doubt, work with your doctor and dermatologist to find the right option for your skin.
Hydroquinone & Salicylic Acid
Hydroquinone is absorbed at high rates (35-45%) and should be avoided during pregnancy. Similarly, Salicylic Acid may be safe in low concentrations, but avoid any leave-on treatments and peels that have high percentages.
Chemical Sunscreens
Oxybenzone and other chemical filters may disrupt hormones during pregnancy. While sunscreen is important during pregnancy, opt for physical/mineral sunscreens instead.
Building a Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine
Morning Routine
Step 1: Gentle Cleansing
In the morning, start off with a fragrance-free, sulfate-free cleanser. You’ll want to look closely for ingredients like glycerin and ceramides that can cleanse the skin without stripping away the natural moisture barrier.
Next, apply a Vitamin C serum that offers safe antioxidant protection during pregnancy.
Why Vitamin C? This antioxidant has been shown to help combat hyperpigmentation while protecting against environmental damage. And unlike other skincare actives, vitamin C is completely safe throughout both pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Step 3: Peptide Treatment
If you want to add some anti-aging benefits without harsh retinol, a collagen stimulating peptide complex is a great pregnancy-safe alternative. Peptides help boost your natural skin elasticity (helpful as your skin starts to stretch and expand!) and firmness – and pose no risk to your developing baby.
Step 4: Moisturize
Moisturizing is important throughout pregnancy! You’ll want to pick a nourishing moisturizer with ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients can help combat pregnancy-related skin dryness and lock in moisture throughout the day.
Step 5: Mineral Sunscreen
Never forget your sun protection! Finish with a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. During pregnancy, you’ll want to play it safe and avoid any chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone or avobenzone.
Evening Routine
Step 1: Double Cleanse (if wearing makeup)
At the end of the day, remove makeup with a gentle micellar water or cleansing oil. Once you’ve removed everything, give your skin a refreshing clean with a cleanser.
Step 2: Targeted Treatments
Now is the time to address specific concerns with pregnancy-safe actives, and let sleep work wonders on your skin.
For acne, try products with azelaic acid or niacinamide. Hormones play a big role in pregnancy-related breakouts, and choosing the best skincare products can help reduce the irritation and clear up your skin.
Step 3: Hydrating Serum
After treating your skin, make sure to layer on extra hydration with a hyaluronic acid serum. This helps to restore and support your skin's moisture barrier.
Step 4: Night Moisturizer
Last but not least, use a richer cream before you go to sleep. If you happen to have extremely dry areas, you can safely add a few drops of Batana Oil. This pure, single-ingredient oil provides deep hydration without any additives or essential oils that might cause sensitivity.
Start Building Your Safer Pregnancy Skincare Kit
Creating a pregnancy-safe skincare routine doesn't mean compromising on quality or results.
By choosing the right ingredients and avoiding known risks, you can enjoy the same healthy, glowing skin throughout pregnancy and long after your bundle of joy arrives!
Are you looking to build your pregnancy-safe routine? Start with these Eva Naturals essentials:
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Vitamin C Serum - For brightening and protection
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Peptide Complex Serum - For anti-aging without retinol
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Batana Oil - For deep hydration
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Nipple Cream - For ultra-nourishing care anywhere you need it
Remember: when in doubt, always consult your healthcare provider about specific products. What works for one person may not work for another, and your comfort and confidence matter just as much as safety.
Your skin is working hard to support your growing baby—give it the gentle, effective care it deserves with pregnancy-safe products that deliver real results without the worry.
FAQ
Is fragrance bad for pregnancy?
While not always risky, many synthetic fragrances contain phthalates, which may disrupt hormones. When in doubt, opt for fragrance-free products or those scented with pregnancy-safe oils like lavender.
What sunscreen is safe during pregnancy?
Even when pregnant, skin protection matters! Choose mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and avoid chemical filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone.
Why do dark spots and patches appear on the skin during pregnancy?
Studies have found that the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can trigger increased melanin production. This increase can lead to melasma or what many refer to as the "pregnancy mask.”
Can I use vitamin C serum while pregnant?
Yes! Vitamin C is completely safe during pregnancy and helps combat hyperpigmentation while providing antioxidant protection.