Skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding

This is general education, not medical advice. Your obstetrician, midwife, or dermatologist knows your situation and should have the final say.

Stop

Retinoids — retinol, retinaldehyde, adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene. Oral isotretinoin causes severe birth defects, and while topical absorption is far lower, the standard advice is to avoid the whole class. This is the one to take seriously.

Hydroquinone has notably high systemic absorption compared with most topicals. Generally avoided.

High-dose salicylic acid — peels and strong leave-on treatments. A 2% cleanser or toner is widely considered fine; a 20% peel is not.

Generally considered fine

• Azelaic acid — effective for acne, redness, and melasma, and the workhorse of a pregnancy-safe routine
• Niacinamide — oil control, redness, pigment
• Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides — hydration and barrier support
• Vitamin C — antioxidant protection and brightening
• Glycolic and lactic acid — minimal absorption at cosmetic strengths
• Mineral sunscreens — zinc oxide and titanium dioxide stay on the surface
• Benzoyl peroxide — usually considered acceptable, though check with your clinician

Two things that commonly change

Melasma appears or worsens for many people during pregnancy — it is common enough to be called the mask of pregnancy. Rigorous sun protection is the main lever available to you, and tinted mineral sunscreen with iron oxides helps more than clear formulas. Much of it fades after delivery.

Acne often flares in the first trimester. Azelaic acid is the most useful option, with benzoyl peroxide as a likely-fine addition.

Breastfeeding

Most topicals are fine, since systemic absorption is low. The practical rule is to keep products off areas the baby's skin contacts directly, and to avoid applying anything active to the chest.

Retinoids are still generally avoided.