Pregnancy is a time of immense change—including your skin—making pregnancy safe skincare more important than ever. From increased sensitivity and dryness to hormonal acne and hyperpigmentation, many expectant mothers experience noticeable shifts in their skin. But not all skincare products are safe to use while pregnant. Certain ingredients may pose risks to both maternal and fetal health, which is why understanding what’s safe (and what’s not) is essential. At ERLY, we’re committed to offering gentle, effective, and hypoallergenic skincare that’s safe for all skin types—including during pregnancy. Here’s a dermatologist’s guide to pregnancy safe skincare and how to keep your complexion calm, clear, and healthy while expecting.
Understanding Pregnancy Safe Skincare
During pregnancy, the body undergoes hormonal fluctuations that can lead to various skin concerns. Increased estrogen levels may result in a radiant glow for some, while others may experience melasma (dark patches on the skin), breakouts, or heightened skin sensitivity. Because certain skincare ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream, it’s essential to choose products that are both effective and safe for pregnancy.
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Certain ingredients commonly found in skincare should be avoided during pregnancy due to their potential risks:
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Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin, Isotretinoin) – These vitamin A derivatives are commonly used for anti-aging and acne treatment but have been linked to birth defects and should be avoided.
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Salicylic Acid (in high concentrations) – While small amounts in cleansers are generally considered safe, high concentrations, such as those in peels, should be avoided.
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Hydroquinone – Used for skin lightening, this ingredient has high absorption rates and is best avoided during pregnancy.
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Formaldehyde and Phthalates – Found in some cosmetics and nail products, these chemicals have been associated with potential health risks.
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Chemical Sunscreens (Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octinoxate, etc.) – These can be absorbed into the skin. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens instead.
Safe and Effective Skincare Ingredients During Pregnancy
Fortunately, there are plenty of safe and effective ingredients that can help address common pregnancy-related skin concerns:
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Hyaluronic Acid – A powerful humectant that hydrates the skin without causing irritation. ERLY Daily Splash, formulated with three forms of hyaluronic acid, provides deep hydration and helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance.
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Niacinamide – A multi-functional ingredient found in ERLY Daily Soothe and ERLY Daily Dew that reduces inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and minimizes pigmentation.
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Vitamin E – A soothing and antioxidant-rich ingredient found in ERLY Night Moisturizer, which helps nourish and protect the skin from oxidative stress.
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Zinc Oxide – A mineral sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum UV protection without harmful chemical absorption. Try ERLY Start Moisturizer with SPF 40.
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Glycerin – A gentle humectant in ERLY Daily Splash that locks in moisture and keeps the skin soft and supple.
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Peptides – Promote collagen production and skin elasticity, making them a great alternative to retinoids for anti-aging benefits. Both ERLY Start SPF and ERLY Night Moisturizer are packed with peptides.
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Phloretin – A potent antioxidant found in Daily Dew that protects against environmental damage and supports an even skin tone.
Common Pregnancy Skin Concerns and How to Address Them
Hormonal Acne
Increased oil production can lead to breakouts. Instead of harsh acne treatments, use gentle cleansers, niacinamide, and lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers to keep the skin balanced. Daily Soothe is packed with niacinamide to calm inflammation, acne, and breakouts.
Hyperpigmentation (Melasma)
Dark patches on the skin are common due to hormonal changes. Protecting the skin with mineral sunscreen and using antioxidants like phloretin and vitamin E can help prevent further pigmentation.
Dryness and Sensitivity
Pregnancy can make the skin more prone to dryness and irritation. Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and peptides can keep the skin soft and supple.
Stretch Marks
Keeping the skin moisturized with vitamin E and peptides can help maintain elasticity and reduce the likelihood of stretch marks forming.
The ERLY Approach to Pregnancy-Safe Skincare
At ERLY, we believe in science-backed, dermatologist-created formulations that are safe for everyone, including pregnant individuals. Our hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products provide hydration and nourishment without the risk of harmful ingredients. With a focus on gentle yet effective skincare, we help you maintain a radiant, healthy complexion throughout pregnancy and beyond.
Navigating skincare during pregnancy doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information and a simplified routine, you can feel confident about the products you’re using on your skin. By avoiding potentially harmful ingredients like retinoids and chemical sunscreens—and choosing gentle, effective alternatives—you’re taking an important step in protecting both your health and your baby’s.
Pregnancy safe skincare is all about balance: nourishing your skin without unnecessary risks. At ERLY, our products are dermatologist-formulated, hypoallergenic, and thoughtfully designed to support your skin through every stage—including pregnancy. Whether you're dealing with dryness, sensitivity, or hormonal breakouts, we’ve got clean, effective solutions that deliver results without compromise.
Looking for a routine you can trust? Explore ERLY’s collection of pregnancy safe skincare, and take the guesswork out of your glow.
