The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: Ingredients to Use & To Avoid

Pregnancy is a time of massive change. Your body is working overtime to grow a tiny human, and your skin? Well, it’s on its own hormonal rollercoaster. Some people experience the much-hyped "pregnancy glow," while others find themselves dealing with breakouts, melasma, dryness, or increased sensitivity. And while you’re rethinking sushi and caffeine, you might also be wondering: What skincare products are actually safe to use during pregnancy?

We’ve got you covered. Here’s your science-backed guide to pregnancy-safe skincare, including what to avoid, what to embrace, and how MUMUK keeps your skin healthy and radiant.

Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

Your skin absorbs what you put on it, and while not everything penetrates deeply enough to affect your baby, some ingredients are best left off your routine for the next nine months. Additionally, treatments like Botox and other injectable neurotoxins should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as their safety in these conditions has not been well studied.

🚫 Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin, Adapalene, Isotretinoin)

• Found in anti-aging and acne treatments, retinoids are linked to potential birth defects and should be avoided completely during pregnancy.

🚫 High-Dose Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/BHA)

• While small amounts in cleansers are generally fine, high concentrations (like peels or treatments over 2%) should be skipped due to potential risks.

🚫 Hydroquinone

• Commonly used to fade hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone has a high absorption rate, making it one to avoid.

🚫 Chemical Sunscreens (Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate, Octocrylene)

• Some chemical sunscreens can be endocrine disruptors. Stick with mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide & titanium dioxide) instead.

🚫 Essential Oils in High Concentrations

• While some essential oils are safe, high doses of oils like rosemary and clary sage may stimulate uterine contractions. Patch test any essential oil-heavy product.

See the full list by What to Expect. 

Pregnancy-Safe Ingredients for Healthy, Glowing Skin

Just because you’re avoiding certain ingredients doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice glowing, well-nourished skin. Here’s what to use instead:

✔️ Bakuchiol: The Retinol Alternative

• A plant-based, pregnancy-safe ingredient that delivers retinol-like effects—boosting collagen, improving texture, and reducing fine lines without irritation.

✔️ Peptides: The Skin Rebuilders

• Support collagen production and help keep skin plump and firm as it stretches. MUMUK’s formula includes:

• Argireline – Targets fine lines and prevents premature aging. (Also known as botox in a jar, except that its considered safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding.) 

• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 – Stimulates collagen for firmer skin.

• sh-Oligopeptide-1 – Enhances cell regeneration.

✔️ Niacinamide: The Glow Booster

• Helps brighten skin, reduce redness, and strengthen the barrier—a must-have for pregnancy-induced sensitivity.

✔️ Probiotics & Ferments: The Microbiome Protectors

• Pregnancy can make your skin more reactive, so supporting your skin barrier is crucial. MUMUK’s Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate & Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate help balance and soothe.

✔️ Mineral Sunscreens (Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide)

• Unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral SPF provides broad-spectrum protection without hormone-disrupting risks.

How MUMUK Delivers Pregnancy-Safe Regeneration

MUMUK is formulated with biomimetic, regenerative ingredients that work with your skin’s natural renewal process—without harmful additives. No retinoids, no harsh acids, no questionable chemicals. Just effective, pregnancy-safe skincare that supports your skin at every stage. However, every pregnancy is unique, so we always recommend consulting with your doctor or dermatologist to ensure your skincare routine aligns with your specific needs.

Because pregnancy is already full of surprises, your skincare routine shouldn’t be one of them.

Ready to nourish and protect your skin safely? Let’s regenerate.