Pregnancy safe skincare: The complete guide

The expert advice you need to know for all your pregnancy skin concerns

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Lifestyle Features Editor

Updated: June 26, 2023Jun 26, 2023, 3:30 PM GMT+1

The famous pregnancy glow is something lots of women aspire to have when they're expecting, but unfortunately the reality for many is increasingly sensitive skin, pigmentation issues such as melasma, and tight, itching skin among the pregnancy symptoms they experience as their bumps grow bigger.

But with lots of conflicting information about what skincare products you can and can't use during pregnancy, it can be confusing to know how to treat any skin conditions and what to use to try and prevent stretch marks and nourish your skin.

Some skincare products aren't suitable for use during pregnancy

We called upon two experts to answer some of the most common questions about pregnancy safe skincare and debunk any myths about what we should be removing from our beauty stash – and what we should use instead. Read on for everything you need to know…

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How does pregnancy affect skin?

There are many different ways pregnancy can affect the skin, and while some expectant mothers won't see any noticeable changes to their skin, others may find that existing skin conditions are worsened, or they may develop new issues such as melasma, dry skin or rashes.

What skincare ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy?

"Pregnancy is a time of many changes, not least hormonal. Hormones can affect how your skin reacts to ingredients so you may find you develop reactions to products you've used previously without a problem," Lesley Gilchrist, registered midwife and co-founder of My Expert Midwife explains.

"You may experience breakouts of acne, sensitivity, rashes and dryness, and certain ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy as they may cause complications to you and/or baby."

Skin can become more sensitive during pregnancy

These include vitamin A derivatives, which are commonly found in anti-aging products, as evidence links vitamin A to problems with babies' development.

Lesley adds: "Some products such as skin lighteners, brighteners and even some types of nail polishes can contain ingredients which are not recommended for use during pregnancy. Skincare ingredients can be absorbed through the skin and may cross the placenta to your unborn baby, so it's always best to check the product is suitable to use during pregnancy, or if in doubt, seek advice from healthcare professionals."

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Meanwhile, you may want to avoid acne-fighting products, which can create overly-dry and flaky skin during pregnancy. These work by drying out the natural oils in the skin, which may already be feeling more sensitive and easily irritated due to pregnancy hormones and increased blood flow.

Should essential oils in skincare be avoided in pregnancy?

Some essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy

Essential oils can be found in many of our favourite skincare products, and are something to look out for during pregnancy, as some may cause side effects to you or your baby.

Fran Johnson, Product Development Manager at Neal's Yard Remedies, says: "Using essential oils during pregnancy is a much discussed topic and is highly emotive for obvious reasons! There are many essential oils that we wouldn't recommend using, however there are some oils that are safe to use and can help with relaxation and some pregnancy symptoms. Pregnancy massage can be a wonderful experience and can also help to relieve some pregnancy symptoms."

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Some of the essential oils that are safe to use include Neroli, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Geranium and Frankincense, many of which encourage relaxation and wellness. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional or aromatherapist before using essential oils.

What are the best natural skincare ingredients for pregnancy?

"During pregnancy your skin will benefit from extra care and attention, especially if you find it feels more sensitive, has changes in pigmentation, is more prone to rashes and dryness or if you feel your usual products are not working as well," Lesley says.

"You may find that switching to products which contain more natural ingredients can help to calm, soothe, balance, protect and hydrate your skin gently without stripping those precious natural oils - and some can even help improve circulation, minimise cell damage and help reduce constipation when combined with a regular massage routine."

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Recommended natural ingredients include shea, aloe, coconut, cocoa, argan, sweet almond, lavender, grapefruit, geranium, avocado, beeswax, vitamins E and C, which can be found in oils, butters, creams and lotions and gels.

"They not only work to benefit your skin but often help your mental wellbeing as their properties can include the ability to help you feel calm, energised and relaxed through inhaling their aromas," Lesley adds.

Is hyaluronic acid ok during pregnancy?

According to research, hyaluronic acid is considered safe to use during pregnancy and can be used liberally. It can be useful as a stretch mark treatment, with some studies finding that applying it to early stretch marks made them less noticeable.

Skincare products containing vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are considered safe during pregnancy

Is retinol safe during pregnancy?

While retinol – a form of vitamin A – is a popular skincare ingredient for tackling everything from acne to increasing collagen, it is not safe to use during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. This is because the topical use of retinol or retinoids may contribute to high levels of vitamin A in the body, which could cause serious harm to a fetus.

What serums are safe during pregnancy?

Serums with ingredients such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid are considered safe to use during pregnancy and may be beneficial to expectant mothers experiencing dry skin or dark spots.

What sunscreen is safe during pregnancy?

Keeping out of strong sunlight is recommended during pregnancy to prevent skin issues such as dark spots or melasma, hyperpigmentation and discoloration. You should also continue using sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, but may want to be more conscious of what products you're using.

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The ingredient oxybenzone should be avoided, with mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide considered a better choice during pregnancy. Always look for sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Best pregnancy skincare gifts

Mama Mio Pregnancy Essentials Kit

Packed with four mini products that are ideal for travelling or packing in your hospital bag, Mama Mio's Pregnancy Essentials Kit is a must for mums-to-be. Keep your growing bump smooth and help to prevent stretch marks with the brand's popular Tummy Rub Scrub and Tummy Rub Butter, while the Lucky Legs Cooling Gel is a godsend on sunny days.