Skincare in Pregnancy: A Gentle Guide

Pregnancy can bring plenty of questions, including what to keep in your skincare routine. You do not need to have every answer straight away. Start with the products you already use and ask for advice tailored to you.

Pregnant woman in a softly lit bathroom with cream and sage tones

Start with an ingredient check

Gather the full ingredient lists for your skincare products, including anything prescribed or used to treat a skin concern. Ask your midwife, pharmacist or doctor to review them with you. Do not stop or change prescribed treatment without speaking to your prescriber.

Natural does not mean pregnancy-safe

Words such as natural, vegan and botanical describe aspects of a product, but they do not establish whether it is suitable during pregnancy. Suitability needs to be considered using the complete formulation and your individual circumstances.

Keep your routine manageable

Ask your healthcare professional which cleansing, moisturising and sun-protection products are appropriate for you. Follow the directions on each product and seek advice if you develop irritation or a new skin concern, rather than adding several new treatments at once.

Useful questions to take to your appointment

  • Are the products and treatments I currently use suitable during pregnancy?
  • Are there any ingredients or prescribed treatments I should review?
  • What would you recommend for my particular skin concerns?
  • Will I need to review my routine again when breastfeeding?

Considering a natrl product?

We can help you find the full ingredient list and directions for a product you are considering, so you can share them with your healthcare professional. This guide does not certify any natrl product as pregnancy-safe.

This guide provides general information, not individual medical advice. Your midwife, pharmacist or doctor can help you make choices suited to your pregnancy and medical history. 

A more detailed analysis of the specific conditions, products and ingredients that should be considered during pregnancy, can be found in Ian Merry's blog post here.