Pregnancy and breastfeeding bring significant hormonal changes, and the skin often reflects this — sometimes with pigmentation, sometimes with increased sensitivity or dryness, sometimes with congestion that feels completely out of character. It is a period when people naturally want guidance on what they can safely continue and what they should pause.
As a Registered Nurse, this is a topic I take seriously. The guidance below is a general framework. Individual circumstances vary, and I always recommend discussing your specific situation with your obstetrician or midwife alongside any skin consultation.
What Is Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Gentle cleansing: A mild, non-stripping face wash is appropriate throughout. Look for products free of fragrances and unnecessary actives.
Moisturising: A good moisturiser with ceramides, glycerin, or peptides is appropriate and often beneficial, particularly as skin can become drier during pregnancy.
Topical hyaluronic acid: Used in skincare products (not injectable), hyaluronic acid is considered safe during pregnancy. It draws moisture to the skin and is very well tolerated.
Niacinamide at moderate concentrations: Generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy — useful for supporting the skin barrier and addressing mild pigmentation.
Physical (mineral) SPF: Daily sunscreen is important during pregnancy — melasma (the "mask of pregnancy") is driven by UV exposure acting on hormonally sensitised skin. Physical blockers with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are preferred over chemical filters.
What to Pause
Retinoids (including retinol): All forms of vitamin A should be paused during pregnancy. While the systemic absorption of topical retinoids is low, the advice remains to avoid them entirely.
High-concentration salicylic acid: At prescription or high concentrations, salicylic acid should be avoided. Low concentrations in over-the-counter products are generally considered lower risk, but worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Certain professional treatments: Deeper chemical peels and treatments that involve significant skin penetration are generally deferred until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Gentle, superficial treatments may be appropriate depending on the individual — this is something to discuss at a consultation.
At The Glow Co. Aesthetics
We see clients at all stages of pregnancy and breastfeeding. A consultation with Registered Nurse Lisa covers your specific skin concerns in the context of your current situation, with recommendations that are appropriate for this stage.
