Skincare During Pregnancy: Which Ingredients Are Safe and Which to Avoid

During pregnancy, a mother's skin goes through many changes driven by hormones, such as melasma and dark spots (Chloasma/Melasma), dry skin, stretch marks and acne. Choosing skincare during this time needs extra care, because some ingredients may be absorbed and affect the baby. In this article, a dermatologist summarises the ingredients to avoid and those that are safe for expectant mothers.

Ingredients to avoid during pregnancy

The following ingredients should be avoided or used with caution during pregnancy.

• Retinoids: These include Tretinoin and Retinol, which may affect the baby's development, so they must not be used.

• Salicylic Acid: High concentrations (above 2%) may be absorbed into the bloodstream, so they should be avoided.

• Hydroquinone: Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: At high concentrations, always consult a doctor before use.

• Essential Oils: Some, such as Rosemary, Clary Sage and high-concentration Tea Tree, should be avoided.

Ingredients that are safe for expectant mothers

Expectant mothers can still care for their skin with ingredients that have safety data to support them, including:

• Azelaic Acid: Helps reduce acne and dark marks safely during pregnancy.

• Sunscreen: Mineral sunscreens containing Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are the most suitable for expectant mothers because they protect the skin without being absorbed.

• Mild exfoliating acids: Low-concentration Lactic Acid or Glycolic Acid is considered safe when used in small amounts.

• Basic skin-nourishing ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide and Vitamin C are safe and help keep the skin hydrated and bright.

Key point to focus on: Because melasma and dark spots during pregnancy are often triggered by sunlight, applying mineral sunscreen every day is the most important step in skincare during this time.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use retinol while pregnant? No. All retinoids, including Tretinoin and Retinol, should be avoided because they may affect the baby's development. To manage acne or dark marks, you can use Azelaic Acid, which is safer.

What should I do about melasma during pregnancy? Melasma during pregnancy is often triggered by hormones and sunlight. Focus on applying mineral sunscreen every day and avoid Hydroquinone. Melasma often fades on its own after delivery. If it does not improve, consult a doctor.

What skincare can breastfeeding mothers use? Avoid Hydroquinone, just as during pregnancy, and choose safe ingredients such as Azelaic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin C and mineral sunscreen.

Can stretch marks be prevented? Regular moisturiser use helps keep the skin supple and reduces dryness and tightness, although it cannot prevent stretch marks completely. If you are concerned about stretch marks, consult a dermatologist.

Safe skincare during pregnancy helps mothers keep their skin healthy without affecting the baby. If you are unsure which ingredients are safe to use, consult a dermatologist at Siam Dermatology, phone +66 61 448 7000 or LINE @siamderm.

Written by Dr. Patara Voravutinon, Dermatologist · Last reviewed July 16, 2026