Safety guide

What ingredients are safe during pregnancy?

A research-backed guide to ingredient safety during pregnancy. Understand which skincare and personal care ingredients carry cautions, which are well-studied, and how to read labels with confidence.

Common questions

Is retinol safe during pregnancy?

Most dermatologists recommend avoiding retinol and other retinoids during pregnancy. High-dose vitamin A derivatives are associated with birth defects. Look for bakuchiol as a plant-based alternative.

What skincare ingredients should I avoid when pregnant?

Common ingredients to avoid include retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreen filters like oxybenzone. Always consult your doctor.

Are chemical sunscreens safe during pregnancy?

Some chemical UV filters like oxybenzone have shown hormonal activity in studies. Many pregnant people prefer mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as a precautionary choice.

Related ingredients

BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE

High concern

EPA CPDat observed this chemical in 7055 composition records across product categories including Cleaning products and household care, Home maintenance, Specialty occupational products.

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GLYCERIN

Moderate concern

EPA CPDat observed this chemical in 35327 composition records across product categories including Personal care, Cleaning products and household care, Construction and building materials.

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Water

Moderate concern

EPA CPDat observed this chemical in 70443 composition records across product categories including Cleaning and safety, Personal care, Cleaning products and household care.

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HYALURONIC ACID

Moderate concern

Fetched 1 ClinicalTrials.gov references for HYALURONIC ACID.

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