Pregnancy Safe Skincare Products

Written by Adejumoke

Pregnancy causes significant changes like hormonal shifts, pigmentation, dryness, and acne. It is crucial to use pregnancy-safe skincare products during this time.

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Congratulations on your pregnancy! Just like your belly and body change each week, your skin undergoes changes, too. From hormonal shifts to pigmentation, dryness, and the occasional acne flare-up, it is understandable if your skin doesn’t always feel as radiant as you would like.

During this exciting time, taking care of your skin is extra important, which means turning to skincare brands that are safe for pregnancy. But what do you do when your usual beauty routine needs a pregnancy-friendly makeover? The good news is that a whole world of pregnancy-safe skincare is waiting to pamper and soothe your skin concerns, helping you look your absolute best (even if you are not always feeling it).

Feeling unsure where to begin? Don’t worry—we have got you covered. To simplify your journey through all the changes your skin goes through during pregnancy, we have researched and compiled a list of the top 10 pregnancy-safe skincare brands.

Here's a sneak peek of our best pregnancy-safe skincare and beauty products

How We Chose the Best Pregnancy-Safe Skincare and Beauty Products

We consulted dermatologists about common pregnancy skin concerns, such as dryness and sensitivity, and got their recommendations on pregnancy-safe products. When selecting products, we took into account several factors, such as risky ingredients, moisturising capabilities, the size of the product and its cost, among other considerations, which are explained below.

Risky ingredients: Certain skincare ingredients, such as retinoids (vitamin A), salicylic acid (BHAs), hydroquinone, and oxybenzone, are considered unsafe during pregnancy due to potential risks of foetal damage 2 While most evidence of harm comes from heavy doses, oral use, or animal studies, the risk from occasional, small amounts applied to the face is likely theoretical. 

However, “experts recommend using pregnancy-safe alternatives that carry no known risks”. As an expert said, “since we have an option that we know to be safe during pregnancy, why use one that we don’t have enough information about?”

Moisturising capabilities: Physical and hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause sensitive and dry skin. We chose products designed to boost hydration and protect the skin barrier with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Experts emphasise the importance of moisturising at night, as adequate hydration helps the skin repair itself overnight. A healthy skin barrier protects against bacteria and allergens, which is crucial during pregnancy.

Fragrance-free: Since your skin becomes more sensitive during pregnancy, we chose fragrance-free products to avoid irritation. While scents themselves aren’t harmful, synthetic fragrances can irritate your skin, so it is better to avoid them during this period.

ID: bestone

Best pregnancy-safe moisturising cream

CeraVe Moisturising Cream

Best pregnancy-safe moisturising cream
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Why we like it

  • It is enriched with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier.
  • Deeply moisturises skin and keeps it hydrated for hours.
  • Odourless, making it great for those sensitive to fragrances.
  • Works well for both hands and face, and is effective on dry, irritated skin.

Something to Note

  • It is pasty

Key ingredient: Essential ceramides, Hyaluronic acid

Size: 12 ounces

Customer’s Review

One user with incredibly sensitive skin said she has tried just about every cream under the sun, and none lived up to the hype—until CeraVe. At first, she was sceptical, but it turned out to be the perfect balance for her mixed skin, which is both oily and dry. What really won her over was how gentle and unscented it is, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.

Another glowing reviewer raved about how CeraVe has become a game-changer in her daily routine. Packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this cream deeply hydrates and locks in moisture, leaving her dry skin feeling soft and nourished. She gave it a well-deserved 5-star rating, calling it nothing short of a skincare miracle

ID: besttwo

Best pregnancy-safe cleanser

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser

Best pregnancy-safe cleanser
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Why we like it

  • It refreshes and cleans your skin without stripping away its natural oils.
  • The pump bottle is easy to use

Something to Note

  • It smells a bit on the chemical side

Key ingredients: Prebiotic Thermal Water, Ceramide-3, Niacinamide & Glycerin. 

Size: 15.4 ounces

Customer’s Review

One reviewer shared how she was on the hunt for a high-quality, oil-free cleanser for middle-aged skin—and this one was exactly what she needed. After hearing about it from multiple dermatologists, she tried it and loved the results. Her skin felt clean with no residue, irritation, or dryness. It is now her go-to.

Another reviewer raved about how, after just two uses, her skin felt softer, more hydrated, and had a beautiful, non-oily shine. She loved it, and even her fiancé was impressed!

ID: bestthree

Best pregnancy-safe toner

Dickinson Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner

Best pregnancy-safe toner
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Why we like it

  • Ideal for oily skin
  • Budget-friendly

Something to Note

  • Infused with natural fragrance.

Key ingredient: 100% Natural Distilled Witch Hazel

Size: 16 Fluid Ounces

Customer’s Review

One dedicated user can’t stop singing the praises of this brand. She shares: “The results have been amazing!” This cleanser has become her go-to for tackling oily skin and effortlessly removing leftover makeup. Initially, she was concerned about how it would affect her sensitive skin and dermatitis, but to her delight, this product has been a true lifesaver, even soothing those pesky itchy spots. Now, she can’t imagine her skincare routine without it. It provides a refreshing boost while toning her face, all without an overpowering scent—just pure, fresh cleanliness.

Another enthusiastic user discovered the transformative power of witch hazel, exclaiming, “Who knew there could be such a difference?” This particular witch hazel has become her secret weapon, working wonders on everything from bug bites to itchy spots. Plus, its affordability makes it even better! She loves that she can easily order it online, along with her other essentials, saving her a trip to the store.

ID: bestfour

Best pregnancy-safe body wash

Mama Mio Megamama shower milk

Best pregnancy-safe body wash
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Why we like it

  • It's vegan
  • Great for sensitive skin during pregnancy; leaves skin feeling soft and itch-free.
  • Light lavender fragrance adds a calming touch.

Something to Note

  • It's quite liquidy.

Key ingredients: Avocado Oil, Inchi Oil, Argan Oil, Vitamin E

Size: 5.1 ounces

Customer’s Review

One customer shared her experience with the travel-size Mega Mama Shower Milk, and her enthusiasm was palpable. She decided to give the 50 ml bottle a try and was pleasantly surprised by the results. “It left my skin feeling incredibly soft,” she said, noting how it effectively relieved her itching. She couldn’t believe how little she needed to use, as a little really goes a long way. So impressed was she that she didn’t hesitate to upgrade to the larger 200 ml size. Now, it has officially become one of her pregnancy essentials!

Another mom couldn’t hold back her excitement, proclaiming her love for Mega Mama Shower Milk. She described it as feeling luxuriously soft on her skin, a quality that has transformed her daily routine. Since it’s specifically designed for pregnancy, she has been applying it generously to her growing bump, making it a delightful ritual she looks forward to every day. “I can’t get enough of it!” she gushed, illustrating just how integral it has become to her self-care during this special time.

ID: bestfive

Best pregnancy-safe sunscreen

Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

Best pregnancy-safe sunscreen
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Why we like it

  • This sunscreen has a lighter consistency than other mineral sunscreens, making it easier to apply.
  • The claim that the sunscreen is fragrance-free is genuine.

Something to Note

  • Hard to scrub off after use.

Key ingredient: Zinc oxide

Size:  3 Fl Oz

Customer’s Review

One thrilled customer raved about this sunscreen, calling it a “total winner.” What impressed her the most was its incredible staying power. “It stays effective for up to 80 minutes in the water!” she exclaimed, which meant she could dive into body surfing, splash around in the pool, or jump through waves without a care in the world. Unlike other brands that tend to wash off in just 30 minutes, this sunscreen held strong, allowing her to fully enjoy every moment of her sunny adventures.

Another satisfied customer echoed her excitement, highlighting the smooth application of the product. “I love how easily it spreads,” she said, appreciating how it goes on evenly without leaving that annoying white residue that often plagues other sunscreens. She found it fantastic at keeping burns at bay, and to her delight, it has no strong smell and isn’t runny like some brands she had tried before. “It’s become my go-to for fun in the sun!” she declared.

ID: bestsix

Best pregnancy-safe serum

CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Best pregnancy-safe serum
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Why we like it

  • It retains the skin's natural moisture
  • Absorbs rapidly with no sticky residue.
  • Glides on smoothly and layers well under makeup.
  • Suitable for day and night; can be used alone or with other products.

Something to Note

  • The size is pretty small

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5, and Ceramides

Size: ‎1.06 ounces

Customer’s Review

One delighted user described this serum as a “total game-changer” for her skincare routine. She was captivated by how nourishing it felt, leaving her skin incredibly soft and supple after every application. What she loved most was its lack of scent, which made it even more appealing. With its light gel texture, she found that just one pump was all she needed for her face and neck. It absorbed quickly and layered perfectly with her other skincare products, making it a seamless addition to her daily routine.

Another customer echoed her enthusiasm, calling the serum an “absolute lifesaver” for dry skin. She was thrilled with its lightweight formula, describing it as luxurious and silky smooth as it glided effortlessly onto her skin. There was no sticky residue—just pure hydration that left her skin feeling wonderfully supple after each use. While she didn’t have super sensitive skin, she experienced no irritation, and the mild fragrance added a delightful touch to her experience. She concluded that this serum is a fantastic option for anyone looking to moisturise and smooth their skin without breaking the bank.

ID: bestseven

Best pregnancy-safe eczema therapy

Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream with Oatmeal

Best pregnancy-safe eczema therapy
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Why we like it

  • It contains soothing oats for any pregnancy-related irritation.
  • It is not greasy

Something to Note

  • You might feel a little sticky.
  • It is not easy to apply.

Key ingredient: Purpose Colloidal Oatmeal

Size: 12 fl oz

Customer’s Review

One customer shared her journey with eczema, revealing how the harsh, dry winter months used to wreak havoc on her skin. She expressed her relief, saying, “I’m thrilled I didn’t give up on my quest for relief!” This cream has truly transformed her life. Gone are the days she suffers through painful winters; now she enjoys soothing comfort and happy skin.

Another enthusiastic user couldn’t contain her excitement, declaring, “I’m obsessed with this product!” She raved about the incredible moisture it delivers, noting a noticeable difference in her skin throughout the day. The subtle scent, reminiscent of slathering oats directly onto her skin, adds to the experience, providing a soothing and relaxing effect that feels heavenly. “Seriously, I can’t get enough of it—I love it!” she gushed, capturing the joy this product has brought to her daily routine.

ID: besteight

Best pregnancy-safe exfoliator

Caudalie Vinoperfect Glycolic Peel Face Mask

Best pregnancy-safe exfoliator
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Why we like it

  • It contains glycolic acid, which is a pregnancy-safe alpha hydroxy acid that fights skin dullness and uneven texture.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Something to Note

  • It's a little bit pricey.

Key ingredients: Patented vine sap-derived viniferine, glycolic acid, natural AHAs (such as super maple extract)

Size: 2.5 Fl Oz

Customer’s Review

One expectant mother excitedly recounted her journey, saying she picked up this product specifically to tackle her pregnancy breakouts during her first trimester. “Let me tell you, it’s pure magic in a bottle!” she exclaimed. She was amazed at how quickly it cleared her skin, leaving her beyond impressed with the results.

Another customer chimed in with her own glowing review, describing the product as a game-changer for her long-standing struggle with large pores. “This stuff works wonders!” she said, reflecting on the countless products she had tried over the years with little success. But this one? It truly made her pores look smaller, and she couldn’t contain her thrill at the results.

ID: bestnine

Best pregnancy-safe massage oil

Weleda Stretch Mark Pregnancy Massage Oil

Best pregnancy-safe massage oil
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Why we like it

  • It absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue.
  • Helps relieve skin itching as it stretches.

Something to Note

  • Unless the bottle is upright, the oil leaks everywhere, making a huge mess.

Key ingredients: Vitamin E, wheat germ, almond, and jojoba oils

Size: 3.4 Fl Oz

Customer’s Review

One expectant mother enthusiastically shared her journey, saying, “It worked like a charm! I didn’t get a single stretch mark during my pregnancy!” She started applying 2-3 pumps every morning and night from week 12, going through three bottles throughout her journey. After trying several other products, she declared this one her absolute favourite. “It’s easy to apply, has a lovely subtle scent, and isn’t greasy and I can’t recommend it enough!”

Another satisfied customer chimed in, reflecting on her experience using the oil during both her pregnancies. “With my super dry skin, I was worried about getting stretch marks,” she admitted. But she was thrilled to report that she hasn’t gotten a single one, thanks to this soothing, beautifully scented oil. “I apply it twice daily, and it’s become essential to my routine!” she said.

ID: bestten

Best pregnancy-safe retinol alternative

Glytone Enhance Brightening Complex

Best pregnancy-safe retinol alternative
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Why we like it

  • It softens and hydrates dull skin.
  • No irritation, even with long-term use.

Something to Note

  • It is pricey

Key ingredient: Azelaic acid, Glycolic acid

Size: 1 Fluid Ounces

Customer’s Review

One customer had battled melasma for what felt like forever, trying a myriad of treatments that often left her skin irritated and thickened due to harsh acids. Just when she thought hope was lost, she discovered this product, which she now describes as a “gem.” It turned out to be gentle enough for daily use, and she was thrilled to apply it twice a day. Almost magically, her skin began to look brighter, with noticeably fewer spots. The best part? It was so hydrating that she no longer needed an extra moisturiser, making her skincare routine simpler and more effective.

Another user was amazed by the results, especially after battling terrible breakouts. “This product is amazing!” she shared, thrilled with how clear her face has become. Now, she has smooth, blemish-free skin, and with it, a boost in confidence that she can’t stop raving about.

ID: besteleven

Best pregnancy-safe skincare set

Frida Mom Pregnancy Body Skincare Relief Set

Best pregnancy-safe skincare set
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Why we like it

  • Specifically made to address pregnancy-related concerns.

Something to Note

  • The stretch mark balm can be challenging to get out of the bottle.
  • Some products are not fragrance-free.

Key ingredients: Shea butter, grape seed, coconut oil, vitamin E, menthol 

Size: 1.81 pounds

Customer’s Review

One mom-to-be shared how glad she was to have purchased this set, praising each item for making a visible difference. The only issue was the belly balm—she found it nearly impossible to squeeze out. Twisting, squeezing with all her might, even using full body weight—nothing worked easily. However, once warmed up, it melts nicely. Despite the balm’s difficulty, the rest of the set was a hit. 

The shower balm was her favourite, and the chafing stick worked so well that even her husband kept borrowing it for his runs! The standout, though, was the foot swelling spray. It felt incredible on her swollen feet and was something she hadn’t seen from other brands. In the end, she loved the set so much, she plan to buy it as a gift for all her pregnant friends—calling it practical, unique, and simply delightful.

ID: besttwelve

Best pregnancy-safe acne treatment

Dermatologica Deep Acne Liquid Patch

Best pregnancy-safe acne treatment
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Why we like it

  • It is a sulphur-based treatment, a safe ingredient for acne in pregnancy.
  • Soothes breakout-irritated skin.

Something to Note

  • it leaves a white/yellow cast when dried.

Key ingredient: Sulphur, niacinamide 

Size: 12 ounces

Customer’s Review

One satisfied user couldn’t help but sing the praises of this acne treatment. After applying it to a breakout for three consecutive nights, she was amazed at how dramatically it reduced both inflammation and redness. Unlike other products she had tried, this treatment didn’t dry out her skin and even had a surprisingly fresh scent. She highly recommends it for anyone looking to tackle pesky blemishes.

Another enthusiastic user found this product to be a game-changer for pregnancy skincare. Knowing that many stronger treatments are not safe for expectant mums, she was relieved to discover this gentle yet effective solution for minor breakouts. It offered peace of mind when dealing with those annoying blemishes, though she noted that for more severe breakouts, a more potent solution might be necessary. Overall, it was a great find for anyone navigating skincare during pregnancy!

How to pick pregnancy-safe products

Assess your skin care needs: During pregnancy, your skin undergoes significant changes due to vascular, hormonal, and physical shifts. This often leads to dryness and itchiness. It is crucial to adjust your skincare routine to include ultra-hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier. If you experience irritation, switch to fragrance-free products to avoid synthetic fragrances, which can exacerbate sensitivity.

Read the ingredients label: There’s no need to change your skincare routine during pregnancy completely, but it is important to be mindful of certain ingredients that could pose risks. Experts advise discontinuing the use of retinoids, avoiding brightening creams containing hydroquinone, and steering clear of acne treatments with salicylic acid.

Talk to your doctor: Even if you use only over-the-counter skin care products, consult your doctor about any oral medications. Medications like isotretinoin (Accutane) and spironolactone, often prescribed for acne and hair loss, are dangerous during pregnancy and can harm foetal development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What skincare ingredients are safe to use during pregnancy? +

What skincare ingredients should I avoid during pregnancy? +

Can I use retinoids while pregnant? +

How does skin change during pregnancy? +

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