Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it also brings big changes to your body — including your skin. Suddenly, products you’ve always used may no longer be safe. Some common beauty ingredients can actually be harmful to your baby, which is why many expecting mothers turn to non toxic skincare for pregnancy.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Why non-toxic skincare matters during pregnancy
- The most important ingredients to avoid
- Safe, natural alternatives you can trust
- A simple pregnancy-friendly skincare routine
- Recommended brands and products for expecting moms
Let’s dive in so you can glow safely throughout your pregnancy.
- HYDRATING STRETCH MARK PREVENTION:Helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks by providing intensive hydration to your growing belly. Drenches delicate skin with a concentrated serum to help hydrate, soothe, and treat your belly when you need it the most.
- HYDRATING BELLY OIL: Our nutrient-rich oil is a Dermatologist-recommended, clean alternative for pregnant women & beyond. It soothes irritation, promotes stronger skin & supports skin as it stretches. Consult healthcare professional prior to use
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS: Our pregnancy belly oil supports skin elasticity, comfort, and glow, thanks to 13 nutrient-rich botanicals including Marula, Rosehip and Centella.
- Stretch Mark Lotion: This non-greasy deep moisturizing body lotion is ideal for all-over body use to improve skin elasticity, texture and tone and is widely recommended for stretch marks during and after pregnancy or weight fluctuation
Why Non Toxic Skincare is Important During Pregnancy
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it absorbs much of what you apply. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make your skin more sensitive, prone to breakouts, or dry.
Unfortunately, some skincare ingredients — like retinoids and parabens — can cross the placenta and may pose risks for your developing baby. Others are known endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormones at a critical time.
Choosing pregnancy-safe skincare isn’t just about avoiding risks — it’s also about finding gentle, nourishing products that help your skin stay healthy during this special time.
Ingredients to Avoid in Skincare While Pregnant
When shopping for skincare products, always check the label. Here are ingredients that pregnant women should avoid:
- Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives like Retinol, Tretinoin, Accutane)
Linked to birth defects and strongly advised against. - High-dose Salicylic Acid
Small amounts in cleansers may be fine, but high concentrations (like in chemical peels) should be avoided. - Hydroquinone
A strong skin-lightening agent that is best avoided during pregnancy. - Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Found in some nail polishes and hair products, known carcinogens. - Phthalates & Parabens
Common preservatives and fragrance agents that disrupt hormones. - Certain Essential Oils (like Clary Sage, Rosemary, Basil)
Some oils can trigger uterine contractions or affect hormones.
👉 Tip: Always read the ingredient list carefully and when in doubt, choose fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested, and pregnancy-safe certified products.
Best Non Toxic Skincare Ingredients for Pregnancy
Not all skincare is unsafe! There are plenty of natural, safe, and effective ingredients you can use during pregnancy.
- Aloe Vera – Soothes and hydrates sensitive skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid – Deeply hydrates and plumps without risk.
- Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter – Rich moisturizers that support elasticity.
- Vitamin C – A safe antioxidant that brightens skin and helps with dark spots.
- Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide – Mineral-based sunscreens that are completely safe.
- Jojoba & Almond Oil – Lightweight, nourishing oils for skin elasticity.
These ingredients help you maintain healthy skin while avoiding unnecessary risks.
Non Toxic Skincare Routine for Pregnancy (Step-by-Step)
1. Gentle Cleansing
Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid stripping natural oils.
✔ Recommended: Burt’s Bees Gentle Foaming Cleanser
2. Hydration with Serums
Look for hyaluronic acid or vitamin C serums for hydration and glow.
✔ Recommended: True Botanicals Vitamin C Booster
3. Moisturizing
Shea butter or plant-based moisturizers keep skin supple and reduce stretch marks.
✔ Recommended: Earth Mama Belly Butter
4. Sun Protection
Choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
✔ Recommended: Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
👉 Keep it simple: A gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, nourishing moisturizer, and pregnancy-safe sunscreen are all you need.
Best Non Toxic Skincare Brands for Pregnancy (2025 Update)
Here are some trusted pregnancy-safe skincare brands:
- Burt’s Bees – Natural and affordable, widely available.
- Earth Mama Organics – Specializes in products for pregnancy and postpartum.
- Belli Skincare – Dermatologist-developed, specifically tested for pregnancy safety.
- 100% Pure – Vegan and plant-based, with non-toxic formulations.
- Weleda – Organic creams and oils loved by expecting moms worldwide.
FAQs on Pregnancy-Safe Skincare
Can I use retinol while pregnant?
No — retinol and other vitamin A derivatives should be avoided completely.
Are essential oils safe in skincare during pregnancy?
Some are safe (like lavender or chamomile), but others (like rosemary or clary sage) should be avoided. Always check with your doctor.
What sunscreen is safest for pregnancy?
Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Can I use AHA or BHA acids while pregnant?
Small amounts of lactic acid (AHA) are safe, but avoid strong salicylic acid (BHA) treatments.
Final Tips for Expecting Moms
- Always patch test new products — pregnancy can make skin more sensitive.
- Less is more: keep your skincare routine simple and toxin-free.
- If unsure, consult your dermatologist for safe product recommendations.
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. By avoiding harmful ingredients and choosing non toxic skincare for pregnancy, you can protect both yourself and your baby — while keeping that natural pregnancy glow.
Safe skincare is about confidence, comfort, and peace of mind. With so many pregnancy-friendly products available today, you don’t need to compromise on results.
✨ Ready to switch? Explore our recommended pregnancy-safe skincare products and start building your safe routine today.
