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.
Ingredients in this guide
Hydroquinone
Critical concernCritical concern driven by cmr.
Dibutyl phthalate
Critical concernCritical concern driven by cmr.
Retinoic acid
Critical concernCritical concern based on regulatory listings.
Titanium dioxide
High concernHigh concern based on regulatory listings.
Salicylic acid
High concernHigh concern driven by cmr.
2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone
Minor concernMinor concern based on regulatory listings.
Zinc oxide
Minor concernMinor concern based on regulatory listings.
Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane
Minor concernMinor concern based on regulatory listings.
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