Pregnancy Skincare: Ingredients to Avoid (and What to Use Instead)

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also comes with plenty of changes to your body, including your skin. Hormones can bring breakouts, pigmentation, dryness, or extra sensitivity, leaving many women wondering: “What skincare ingredients should I avoid during pregnancy?”

The good news? You don’t have to give up an effective routine. It’s about knowing what’s off-limits and which pregnancy-safe ingredients will keep your skin glowing.

Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

Here’s where things get a little surprising. Some of the most popular, dermatologist-loved ingredients on the shelves are actually not safe to use while pregnant, and can even affect your baby.

• Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin, Isotretinoin): Can be linked to birth defects when taken orally, and are best avoided topically during pregnancy.
  
  

• High-strength Salicylic Acid: Small amounts (like in cleansers) may be fine, but strong peels or leave-on treatments aren’t recommended.
  
  

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Commonly used for acne, but safety in pregnancy is uncertain, so it’s often avoided.
  
  

(Always check with your healthcare provider before starting or changing your routine.)

So what skincare ingredients are Pregnancy-Safe?

Just because some ingredients are off the table doesn’t mean your skincare routine has to be basic. Many powerhouse ingredients are completely safe for pregnancy- and incredibly effective. Particularly if they are natural and clean:

• Hyaluronic Acid → Ultra-hydrating, helps combat pregnancy-related dryness.
  
  

  • Try: Lust Minerals Hyaluronic Acid Serum for plump, dewy skin.
    
    

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) → Calms redness, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps with pregnancy breakouts.
  
  

  • Try: Lust Minerals Vitamin B Serum to balance and soothe.
    
    

• Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate) → Safe antioxidant that brightens skin, supports collagen, and helps reduce pigmentation and melasma (a common pregnancy concern).
  
  

  • Try: Lust Minerals Vitamin C Serum for a brighter, more even glow.
    
    

• Peptides → Support skin firmness and elasticity- a pregnancy-safe alternative to injectables like Botox.
  
  

  • Try: Lust Minerals Firming Peptide Moisturiser for lifting and smoothing without harsh actives.
    
    

Need personalised skincare advice?

Pregnancy is a special time, and your skincare routine should support your skin’s changing needs while keeping it safe and gentle. Stick to simple, nourishing products, check ingredients carefully, and listen to your skin as it adapts. If you’re unsure which products are right for you, our skin experts are here to help- get in touch for personalised advice and guidance for your specific skin situation.