Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: What to Use and What to Avoid
Pregnancy hormones change how your skin behaves — oil, pigmentation, sensitivity and hydration all shift. Here's what's generally considered safe, what to avoid as a precaution, and why the advice online conflicts so often.
Congratulations! Pregnancy brings incredible changes to your body — and your skin is no exception. Rising hormone levels can affect oil production, pigmentation, sensitivity and hydration, leaving some people with the “pregnancy glow” while others experience acne, melasma, dryness or increased skin sensitivity.
Navigating skincare during pregnancy can feel overwhelming, especially when advice online is often conflicting. The good news is that many skincare products remain appropriate during pregnancy, while a few ingredients should be avoided as a precaution.
At Crow & Co., we believe in helping you make informed decisions with evidence-based information so you can feel confident in your skincare routine throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Common skin changes during pregnancy
- Increased skin sensitivity
- Hormonal acne
- Melasma (“mask of pregnancy”)
- Dry or dehydrated skin
- Increased facial redness
- Stretch marks
- Darkening of existing pigmentation
Ingredients commonly avoided during pregnancy
Current medical guidance generally recommends avoiding or discussing the following with your healthcare provider.
Retinoids. Topical retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), such as retinol and prescription tretinoin, are generally avoided during pregnancy because of concerns related to vitamin A exposure.
High-strength salicylic acid. Small amounts in cleansers may be acceptable for some individuals, but high-strength leave-on products and chemical peels should only be used under medical guidance.
Hydroquinone. Because hydroquinone is absorbed through the skin at a higher rate than many other topical ingredients, it is generally not recommended during pregnancy.
Prescription acne medications. Some prescription acne medications, including isotretinoin (Accutane®), are not safe during pregnancy and require strict medical supervision.
Ingredients generally considered pregnancy-friendly
Many ingredients commonly found in skincare are considered compatible with pregnancy when used as directed, including:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Ceramides
- Niacinamide
- Panthenol (vitamin B5)
- Beta-glucan
- Centella asiatica
- Peptides (most cosmetic peptides)
- Squalane
- Vitamin E
- Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
If you have any concerns, speak with your physician or obstetric provider.
Building your pregnancy routine
Our nurse-led Pregnancy Skincare Routine keeps it simple — gentle cleansing, hydration, barrier support and daily sun protection, with the products we recommend through every trimester.
Still have questions?
Book a consultation at Salmon Arm Aesthetics for personalized, nurse-led advice based on your skin, goals, and medical history.
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