image of a pregnant lady showing suitable skin care during pregnancy

Safe and Glowing: Skincare During Pregnancy. What You Need to Know

Pregnancy is an amazing, transformative journey and your skin often reflects those changes in unexpected ways. From that famous “pregnancy glow” to sudden breakouts, hyperpigmentation, or dryness, hormonal shifts can cause your skin to behave differently than usual. But what’s safe to use, and what should be avoided?

Whether you're expecting or supporting someone who is, here’s your guide to safe, effective skincare during pregnancy, because glowing skin shouldn’t come at the cost of safety.

Why Skincare Needs Change During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, rise significantly. This can lead to:

  • Breakouts or acne

  • Increased sensitivity or redness

  • Hyperpigmentation (melasma or “pregnancy mask”)

  • Dryness or dehydration

  • A radiant, healthy glow (yes, it’s real!)

These changes are natural, but they can impact what skincare products your skin needs and what ingredients should be avoided.

Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

Some commonly used skincare ingredients aren’t considered safe during pregnancy due to potential absorption into the bloodstream. These include:

  • Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin, Adapalene, etc.)
    High doses of vitamin A derivatives have been linked to birth defects. Avoid all forms of topical retinoids unless advised by your doctor.

  • Salicylic Acid (in high concentrations)
    While low levels (under 2%) in cleansers or toners are often considered safe, high-strength peels or oral salicylates should be avoided.

  • Hydroquinone
    Used for pigmentation, this ingredient is absorbed at a higher rate and is best skipped while pregnant.

  • Essential Oils (some types)
    Not all essential oils are pregnancy-safe, steer clear of high doses of rosemary, clary sage, or peppermint unless guided by a professional.

Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients

Good news! You can still maintain glowing, healthy skin with gentle and effective alternatives. Look for:

  • Vitamin C – Brightens skin, rebalances oil levels and protects against pigmentation without harmful side effects.

  • Azelaic Acid – A gentle, naturally derived acid safe for treating breakouts and melasma.

  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – Supports barrier function, reduces inflammation, and improves texture.

  • Hyaluronic Acid – A must-have for hydration and plumpness. 

  • Zinc-based Mineral Sunscreens – Safe and essential for protecting sensitive, pigmentation-prone skin.

  • Gentle cleansers and moisturisers – Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas help calm reactive or hormonal skin.

Our Essential Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine

✔️ Hormonal Acne

Cleanser:
🔹 Revision Skincare Brightening Facial Wash – contains mild glycolic and salicylic acids (in safe concentrations) to gently exfoliate and clear congestion.
Moisturiser / Serum:
🔹 Skinbetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment – restores hydration and skin barrier without clogging pores.
SPF:
🔹 Skinbetter Science TruPhysical SPF45 – lightweight, non-comedogenic mineral sunscreen suitable for breakout-prone skin.

✔️ Dry, Dehydrated, or Sensitive Skin

Cleanser:
🔹 Revision Skincare Gentle Cleansing Lotion – a creamy, non-foaming cleanser that soothes without disrupting the skin barrier.
Moisturiser / Serum:
🔹 Skinbetter Science Trio Luxe Rebalancing Moisture Treatment – a richer option ideal for dry or post-treatment skin.
SPF:
🔹Skinbetter Science TruPhysical SPF45 – lightweight, non-comedogenic mineral sunscreen suitable for breakout-prone skin.

✔️ Melasma or Pigmentation

Cleanser:
🔹 Revision Skincare Papaya Enzyme Cleanser – gentle exfoliation to help improve radiance and tone without harsh actives. 
Moisturiser / Serum:
🔹 Allskin Med C Radiance Gel – stabilised Vitamin C for safe daily brightening and pigmentation support. For combination or oily skin. 
SPF:
🔹Skinbetter Science TruPhysical SPF45 – lightweight, non-comedogenic mineral sunscreen suitable for breakout-prone skin

✔️ Skin Barrier Support

Cleanser:
🔹 Revision Skincare Gentle Foaming Cleanser – soap-free and calming, helps remove impurities while protecting the barrier.
Moisturiser / Serum:
🔹 Skinbetter Science Alto Defense and Repair Serum – rich in antioxidants to reduce inflammation and strengthen skin resilience.
SPF:
🔹 Skinbetter Science TruPhysical SPF45 – lightweight, non-comedogenic, reinforces barrier with gentle mineral filters and no chemical sunscreen agents.

✔️ Safe Daily Use During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Cleanser:
🔹 Revision Skincare Papaya Cleanser – daily use, enzyme-based for mild exfoliation and glow.
Moisturiser / Serum:
🔹 Skinbetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment – restores hydration and skin barrier without clogging pores.
SPF:
🔹 Skinbetter Science TruPhysical SPF45 – lightweight, non-comedogenic, zinc-based daily sunscreen suitable for ongoing use throughout pregnancy and nursing.

Your skin deserves love at every stage — Shop our Pregnancy Safe Skincare

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