Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: What to Use (and What to Avoid)

Pregnancy is such a beautiful and transformative time, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to skincare. With so many conflicting opinions and “clean” claims out there, knowing what’s truly safe for you and your growing baby isn’t always easy.

My own journey with my first pregnancy is what inspired Hey Bella. I remember feeling so overwhelmed—wanting to do everything right, but struggling to understand ingredient lists and worried about unknowingly using something unsafe. That season taught me how important it is to cut through the noise, find products I could trust, and simplify what “clean beauty” really means. It’s the reason I started Hey Bella: to create a safe place where women can feel confident about the products they use, especially during such an important chapter of life.

Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

When you’re pregnant, the goal is to keep skincare nourishing and safe. Here are ingredients I always recommend avoiding:

Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Retinyl Palmitate)
Potent vitamin A derivatives commonly used for acne and anti-aging. A 2023 review confirms that, despite low absorption, retinoids remain contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential teratogenicity and lack of safety data (PMC11231441.) Definitely something we always want to avoid.

Salicylic Acid (in high doses), BHAs, and Strong AHAs
Limited topical use (≤2%) is generally considered safe, but high-dose peels or widespread use are best avoided. A 2022 dermatology review emphasizes avoiding high-concentration use in pregnancy (PMC8884185.)

Hydroquinone
Used for skin lightening, hydroquinone has a high systemic absorption rate (35–45%). Experts recommend minimizing exposure during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its absorption profile (NCBI/StatPearls.)

Formaldehyde, BHT & Parabens
Certain preservatives, especially long-chain parabens like propylparaben, raise concern in pregnancy. Research presented at the Endocrine Society’s 2021 Annual Meeting found that maternal exposure to propylparaben during pregnancy and breastfeeding may reduce the protective effects of pregnancy against breast cancer in daughters later in life (Endocrine Society, 2021). Combined with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and BHT, which are well-documented irritants and potential endocrine disruptors, these are definitely ingredients we want to always avoid—especially during pregnancy.

Fragrance & Phthalates
Hidden in many conventional products, but disruptive to hormones and something we should steer clear of. Early life exposure to phthalates is associated with the development of allergic diseases, altered neurodevelopment, endocrine disruption including reduced anogenital distance in male infants.  (PMC4626367)

Chemical sunscreens (e.g., oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate)
Chemical UV filters are systemically absorbed and may disrupt hormones. A 2024 review highlights potential risks to maternal and child health from chemical UV filters (PMC11984416). Best to avoid and choose mineral SPF instead.

Natural Pregnancy-Safe Alternatives

Instead of cutting ingredients and feeling like your routine is limited, think of pregnancy skincare as a chance to swap to gentler, effective alternatives that keep your skin glowing and safe.

Instead of Retinol → Try Bakuchiol, Peptides, or Bio-Retinols
These plant-based and bioactive ingredients are natural retinol alternatives. They help smooth fine lines, support skin renewal, and are pregnancy-friendly without the risks of vitamin A derivatives.

Instead of Salicylic Acid & BHAs → Try Niacinamide
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is gentle yet effective for acne-prone skin. It calms redness, reduces breakouts, and helps strengthen your skin barrier—without the irritation risks of harsh acids.

Instead of Hydroquinone → Try Vitamin C + Mineral SPF
A powerhouse duo for brightening and preventing hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C helps improve uneven tone while mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) protects against sun spots, melasma, and discoloration safely.

Instead of Synthetic Fragrance & Phthalates → Try Naturally Derived Scents
Look for products scented with essential oils, absolutes, or natural isolates in low, skin-safe concentrations. They offer a sensorial experience without the hidden endocrine-disrupting risks of synthetic fragrance.

Hey Bella Picks for Glowing, Pregnancy-Safe Skin

Here are some of my favorite safe, effective, and all-natural options for expecting mamas:

Melon Foaming Cleanser – Gentle daily cleanse that smells incredible without the use of synthetic fragrance. 

The Body Deli Vital C Serum – Brightens and supports skin with antioxidant protection.

Earth Harbor Siren Silk Crème – Pregnancy-friendly retinol alternative with SEA SAMPHIRE, plus soothing hydration.

Darlin Skincare Tallow Balm – A nutrient-rich balm that nourishes and locks in moisture. Great for face and body.

Good Medicine Beauty Lab Lomi Lomi Body Oil – A deeply hydrating body oil that helps support skin elasticity and is perfect for nurturing skin to help prevent stretch marks.

Rustic Maka Prebiotic Natural Deodorant – An aluminum-free, baking soda-free deodorant that balances odor naturally and keeps you fresh without harsh chemicals.

The Bottom Line

Pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your skincare routine—it just means making safer, cleaner choices. By avoiding potentially harmful ingredients and leaning into nourishing, plant-based formulas, you’ll support not just your skin, but your overall well-being.

For me, this all began with my first pregnancy—navigating confusing labels, tossing products I thought were safe, and wishing there was a place I could trust. That experience shaped Hey Bella into exactly what I needed back then: a clean beauty destination where women can feel confident, supported, and empowered in their choices.

Because you and your baby deserve nothing less. ✨

✨ Want more guidance? Explore our curated Pregnancy-Safe Collection for products you can feel confident about during every trimester.