Pregnancy-Safe Skincare 101
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey — but let’s be real, it comes with a whole lot of changes, including to your skin. Whether you’re glowing or suddenly breaking out, understanding pregnancy-safe skincare is key to keeping both you and your baby safe while feeling confident in your skin.
At Ora Juice Skincare, we’re passionate about clean, effective products that nourish your skin naturally. Here’s your Pregnancy-Safe Skincare 101 guide to help you navigate what to use, what to avoid, and how to care for your changing skin.
Skin Changes with Hormones
As hormone levels surge during pregnancy, your skin may start behaving in new (and sometimes frustrating) ways. You might notice:
- Increased oiliness
- Breakouts
- Dryness or sensitivity
- Hyperpigmentation or dark spots (see our post on uneven skin tone for more info and solutions)
- Stretch marks and varicose veins
These shifts are completely normal but call for extra care when selecting your skincare routine.
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Not all skincare ingredients are pregnancy or breastfeeding-safe. Here’s what to steer clear of.
- Retinol & Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives are popular for anti-aging but are a no-go during pregnancy due to potential birth defects.
- Phthalates & Artificial Fragrances: Common in synthetic scents, these can act as endocrine disruptors. Always check labels and opt for natural, fragrance-free, or phthalate-free products. Rest assured, all of our products in the Golden Beryl Collection are free of phthalates and artificial fragrances.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: While effective for acne, high concentrations aren’t recommended during pregnancy. There’s limited data on safety, so it’s best avoided unless approved by your dermatologist.
Ingredients to Use With Caution
- Salicylic Acid: Low-dose, topical salicylic acid (under 2%) in cleansers or spot treatments is generally considered safe, but avoid oral forms or peels. Our Golden Beryl Toner features salicylic acid naturally derived from white willow bark to gently exfoliate and renew the skin. It’s included at a low concentration under 1%, a level considered safe during pregnancy. Because every journey is unique, we always encourage speaking with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
- Essential Oils: Certain types and high concentrations can trigger contractions or be toxic. Stick to low-dose, well-researched oils, and always check the recommended dilution rates.
Safe & Effective Pregnancy Skincare Ingredients
Good news: You don’t have to sacrifice your skincare routine. Many powerhouse ingredients are completely safe for both pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Glycolic Acid: A gentle exfoliant that helps smooth fine lines, even skin tone, and boost radiance — a great pregnancy-safe alternative to retinol.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A hydration hero that plumps and moisturizes skin, helping combat the dryness and irritation that can accompany pregnancy. Try our Golden Beryl Moisturizer for a deep hydration boost.
- Vitamin C & Niacinamide: Both brighten skin, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and nourish the skin barrier — perfect for managing hyperpigmentation and maintaining even skin tone. Our Elixir has loads of Vitamin C to give you a healthy glow.
Always Consult a Dermatologist
Even with pregnancy-safe ingredients, everyone’s skin is unique. If you have concerns about acne, hyperpigmentation, or specific skin conditions, consult your dermatologist or healthcare provider before starting new products. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your skin’s needs during pregnancy and postpartum.
Shop our pregnancy-safe skincare products and embrace your natural glow.