Skincare during pregnancy: what is (not) safe to apply?
A skincare guide for expectant mothers! During this exciting time, many mommies-to-be have questions about ingredient safety. For example, what about hyaluronic acid or salicylic acid during pregnancy? And why shouldn't you use retinol during pregnancy?
Discover what you can and cannot apply to your skin during pregnancy and how best to tackle typical skin problems. Think of stretch marks, acne, pigmentation spots , dry skin, or dark circles and bags under the eyes.
What should you not put on your skin during pregnancy?
Due to hormonal fluctuations and your body adjusting to your growing baby, you are more sensitive to ingredients that irritate your skin or disrupt your hormone balance.
Fortunately, most skin care products are not harmful to your baby during pregnancy. That does not mean that questionable substances are wise to use. Moreover, you may encounter the so-called stacking effect: amounts that are considered safe per product, but together significantly exceed the 'safe' dose.
If in doubt about the use of specific care products or active ingredients, always consult your doctor or midwife.
7 ingredients that you should not apply to your skin when you are pregnant:
Below are six ingredients that you should avoid when you are pregnant. For example, because the substances can end up in your bloodstream and placenta. So grab your care products and check the packaging for the presence of the ingredients below.
- Retinol (vitamin A)
- Certain essential oils
- Hydroquinone or arbutin
- Synthetic materials
- Salicylic acid
- Formaldehyde and oxybenzone
- Propolis
1. Retinol (vitamin A)
Why no retinol during pregnancy?
Retinol (vitamin A) is the miracle cure for wrinkles because it can penetrate deep into the skin. But this is precisely why it is better to avoid it during pregnancy. Too much vitamin A can be harmful to your baby's development.
Good news! In our best retinol serum, we use NovoRetin, a natural form of retinol. This slows down the breakdown of naturally occurring retinoic acid, thereby supporting your skin's own strength. That is why you can use our RetinLift retinol serum during pregnancy, unlike other retinol products. However, wait until the second trimester due to the essential oils the product contains. Also, be careful with sun exposure due to the skin-renewing properties of this product, especially if you are prone to pigmentation.
2. Certain essential oils
Although pure essential oils are a great addition to skincare, they have a powerful effect. Therefore, it is best to avoid some types if you are pregnant, such as rosemary or sage oil. Some oils, such as those from citrus fruits, make the skin sensitive to sunlight. So be careful with these to prevent extra pigmentation spots. Are there scents that suddenly make you nauseous? Then definitely avoid them! This is a signal from your body, acting as a sort of instinct.
3. Hydroquinone or arbutin
This ingredient is used to reduce pigmentation spots, but it is not safe to use during pregnancy. It can lead to reduced fetal growth and jaundice in newborns. Are you developing a pregnancy mask? Then choose products that remove pigmentation spots in a natural and safe way.
4. Questionable synthetic substances: phthalates, sulfates (SLS, SLES) or parabens
Phthalates are actually chemicals from the plastics industry, and you can also find them in personal care products such as nail polish, hairsprays, and even shampoos. Sulfates are foaming agents, and parabens are preservatives. Although the exact impact of such substances is not yet entirely clear, we say: better safe than sorry. Therefore, in any case, choose a shampoo without sulfates.
5. Salicylic acid
This ingredient is a favorite in the best acne products and can be used against impurities and pimples. Why no salicylic acid during pregnancy? Salicylic acid is a BHA acid with an exfoliating effect. Concentrations of more than 2% salicylic acid or use over the entire face is not recommended when you are pregnant.
You can continue to use exfoliants containing glycolic acid or lactic acid (AHA) while you are pregnant. For example, in a mild fruit acid peel.
6. Formaldehyde and oxybenzone
The names don't sound very pleasant, these substances can be found in sun creams. It is also a good protection against the sun, but can be unsafe for pregnant women. Better choose a sun cream with ingredients such as zinc oxide.
7. Propolis
Propolis is an ideal ingredient for any skin area that requires intensive yet gentle care. Although it is a natural product, we do not recommend our propolis cream during pregnancy. This cream stimulates the skin, which can cause skin irritation during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is safe to use when you are pregnant?
Don't panic, there are still plenty of skin care products that you can safely use during pregnancy (and that are also effective!).
Argan oil
Organic argan oil is the ultimate all-rounder during pregnancy. You can use argan oil on your face , but it is also perfect for keeping the skin on your belly supple. Read our best tips here for reducing stretch marks during and after pregnancy.
Tea tree oil (after the first trimester)
Due to hormonal fluctuations, you are not the only one whose radiant face is suddenly marred by impurities. Tea tree oil is a great, natural solution for pimples and blemishes. For example, you can use it as a pure oil for an acne treatment at home . Add a drop to your facial cleanser or cream. Please note: the general advice is to use tea tree oil only after the first trimester (so from 12 weeks). Also, never apply it undiluted to your skin.
Vitamin C and E
Vitamin C is also a skin hero that you can safely use during your pregnancy. It helps reduce pigmentation spots, promotes collagen production, and gives your skin a healthy, bright glow. A mask or face serum with vitamin C or E is definitely a valuable addition to your facial care routine when you are pregnant.
Want to get the most out of vitamin C? Then choose powder form like in our Lingonberry Bright fruit acid mask. Vitamin C as a powder keeps all the ingredients in the mask active before you use it.
Hyaluronic acid: hydration at its best
The raging hormones can make your skin feel drier than usual during pregnancy. Hyaluronic acid is your savior! It is a substance that occurs naturally in our bodies and is very good for your skin. It helps retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and resilient.
Read more here about how hyaluronic acid works and which hyaluronic acid is best.
Shampoo bars
As long as your hair looks good, right? ;-) Which natural products are good for your hair and safe to use during pregnancy? The answer is simple: you can't go wrong with one of our natural shampoo bars! They are organic, natural, eco-friendly, and 100% zero waste. Moreover, they are free from the aforementioned questionable substances: sulfates, silicones, microplastics, or synthetic perfumes.
Natural hair products
Natural shampoo bars
Do you want to touch up your color? Then choose a hair dye that is as natural as possible. You can also refresh your shade with one of our shampoo bars and hair rinse . Our shampoo bars contain only organic and safe ingredients that you can use without risk during your pregnancy!
Natural make-up
Need just a little extra? Our natural makeup without harmful substances is safe for your baby and beneficial for your skin!
Common Skin Problems During Pregnancy + Safe Solutions
Being pregnant is a special journey full of surprises: proud moments (like your growing baby bump!) and challenges (hello, hormones!). Your skin happily joins in this adventure. On the one hand, this can provide a beautiful glow on your face, fuller hair and fewer wrinkles, but unfortunately also for less positive changes. Think of skin problems such as:
- Pigment spots
- Sensitive or dry skin and itching
- Red cheeks (rosacea or couperose)
- Acne
- Itchy scalp and dry scalp
- Clown eczema (eczema face)
- Bags under the eyes
Pigment spots (melasma)
Pigment spots often appear during pregnancy due to increased melanin production. You cannot completely prevent them, but you can reduce them with mild, natural exfoliation. Opt for a facial peel based on fruit enzymes and don't forget to use a natural sunscreen daily! Also read: pigment spot cream (best tested).
Sensitive or dry skin and itching
Dry and sensitive skin, sometimes accompanied by itching, is a common problem during pregnancy. Hormonal changes and increased blood flow can cause your skin to dry out or become irritated more quickly. Itching can be a particular challenge on your belly, where your skin is stretched. You may also experience more problems with dry facial skin. Fortunately, you can soothe and hydrate your skin with mild, natural products. Read here what you can do about very dry facial skin.
Red cheeks
During pregnancy, you may notice that your cheeks turn red more often, sometimes even permanently. This can be related to rosacea or couperose, where small blood vessels in your face become more visible. Due to hormonal changes and increased blood circulation during pregnancy, your skin is more sensitive, and these red cheeks can appear more quickly. Although rosacea is harmless, it can cause discomfort or insecurity. Fortunately, you can treat rosacea naturally during (and after) your pregnancy.
Acne during pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones can make your skin suddenly feel like it's going through puberty again, even if you normally have smooth skin. This is due to increased sebum production. While this creates a beautiful pregnancy glow, it also clogs your pores, which can lead to pimples or blackheads. Fortunately, you can effectively tackle pregnancy acne with the right natural skincare, for example with a cleanser for oily skin.
Avoid harsh treatments and ingredients such as salicylic acid (>2%) and benzoyl peroxide, which are often used for acne but are not recommended during pregnancy. Choose mild and natural alternatives instead. Our range of the best acne products is safe to use during pregnancy; read the product description before use.
Itchy scalp and dry scalp
Suddenly suffering from a dry and itchy scalp ? Feel free to blame the hormones again. If you aren't using a shampoo bar yet, now is the time to start. Give yourself some time to get used to this natural shampoo, and you will notice your hair becoming stronger and healthier! Our shampoo bars are designed to soothe your scalp and strengthen your hair.
➡️ shampoo bar for an itchy scalp : Hemp Shampoo Bar.
Combine this with a few drops of argan oil as a nourishing mask. When you gently massage this oil into the scalp, you stimulate the blood circulation which helps against a dry scalp.
Clown Eczema
Clown eczema causes a rash around the mouth and is often worsened by synthetic skincare products. And especially during pregnancy, your skin can react particularly severely. Switch to a safe, natural remedy for eczema , such as our Hemp Body Butter, and avoid heavy creams.
Bags under the eyes
Lack of sleep, hormones, and fluid retention can cause bags under the eyes. Do you wake up with puffy eyes because of this? The ultimate grandma's remedy for bags under your eyes is a cold spoon. Use it with a nourishing eye cream, such as Flow Green Tea & Peptide. This beneficial product helps combat a tired look, among other things, and is even suitable for sensitive skin.
➡️ Natural Eye Cream Green Tea & Peptide
Pro-tip against various types of skin problems during pregnancy
For extra care and treatment of skin problems, use one of our hydrating facial sprays ! These high-quality sprays significantly improve your moisture balance and skin texture. They offer (antioxidant) protection and help improve the barrier function, making them suitable for treating various skin issues. Our rose water spray is a lovely refreshment for in-between use, and you can also use the chamomile spray for your little one's chapped bottom. Win-win!
Facial peeling during pregnancy: yes or no?
A gentle facial peel can help remove dull skin and reduce pigmentation spots. Avoid chemical peels, such as those containing salicylic acid, and opt for milder alternatives. Lingonberry Bright is a brightening fruit acid mask that you can safely use during pregnancy.
Why the Oil Cleansing Method Saves Your Skin
The Oil Cleansing Method is a gentle, natural way to cleanse your skin without disrupting its balance. This makes it a perfect way to cleanse during pregnancy, especially when your facial skin has become more sensitive. You can easily remove makeup and impurities, while your skin remains nourished and your natural glow is enhanced. View our range of natural face oils here that are safe to use during pregnancy.
With the right natural skin care, you can enjoy your pregnancy glow to the fullest and give your baby a healthy start! Do you have any questions about our products? Let us know, we are happy to help you.
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Our professional beauty tips are not a substitute for medical advice from your GP or midwife. For the safety of skincare products, consult a medical specialist for your personal situation.
If you are pregnant, you might also find this interesting: buying natural baby shampoo.
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