Skincare you can actually use in pregnancy
Pregnancy is usually the point where women start questioning every product they own. The good news is that most skincare does not need to be stopped. We take a balanced, evidence-led approach in clinic, and you can do the same. We avoid certain ingredients out of caution, but we do not believe in unnecessary fear.
The aim during pregnancy is simple. Protect the skin, support the barrier, and manage pigmentation gently.
WHAT WE PAUSE
We advise stopping retinoids during pregnancy. That includes retinol, retinal and prescription vitamin A derivatives.
While topical retinoids have not been definitively shown to cause harm, we recommend avoiding them out of an abundance of safety. This is a temporary pause, not a permanent change. They can be reintroduced postpartum.
Everything else is adjusted based on the individual.
WHAT WE PRIORITISE INSTEAD
Rather than focusing on vitamin A, we focus on antioxidants.
They help defend against environmental stress, support collagen and play an important role in managing pigmentation, which often becomes more noticeable during pregnancy.
In clinic, we regularly use/recommend:
P-TIOX | SKINCEUTICALS
Ptiox sits comfortably in this category for us. It supports skin quality and smoothness and gives visible improvement without relying on vitamin A derivatives. It is a very good option for patients who are used to active routines and want to maintain results safely.
METACELL RENEWAL B3 | SKINCEUTICALS
Metacell Renewal B3 is another favourite. Niacinamide supports barrier function, improves tone and helps strengthen skin that may feel more reactive during hormonal shifts.
GENTLE EXFOLIATION
You do not need to stop exfoliating altogether. You just need to be sensible.
We lean towards controlled, gentle exfoliation rather than aggressive resurfacing.
WHAT DO WE USE IN CLINIC?
- Obagi Exfoderm with lactic acid
The goal is brightness and clarity, not irritation. If skin becomes sensitive, we reduce frequency.
Barrier Support
Pregnancy hormones can trigger dryness, redness and flare-ups. This is where barrier support becomes essential.
We regularly recommend:
Mimetique Skin Restore Face Cream
iS Clincal Reparative Moisture Emulsion
Hydration and barrier integrity prevent a lot of secondary issues. When the barrier is strong, everything behaves better.
pigmentation management
Melasma is common during pregnancy, so we take a preventative approach.
In clinic we often use:
Niacinamide:
Azelaic acid
These ingredients help manage pigmentation gradually and safely without resorting to aggressive treatments.
SPF
SPF is non-negotiable.
Any of our SPF collection can be used during pregnancy. There is no need to avoid chemical filters unless you personally prefer mineral formulations.
Daily, broad-spectrum protection is the single most important step in preventing pigmentation from worsening.
DR. LAURA'S ADVICE
Pregnancy skincare does not need to be restrictive.
We pause retinoids out of caution.
We strengthen the barrier.
We use antioxidants.
We manage pigmentation gently.
And we keep routines steady.
If you are unsure about a specific product, we are always happy to advise. Send us a DM on socials or try a PHARE Consultation.
