Pregnancy and the journey of trying to conceive (TTC) naturally inspire a closer look at skincare routines. With so many ingredients and conflicting opinions online, it’s normal to wonder:

“Is this product right for me right now?”

This guide highlights cosmetic ingredients many people choose to avoid during pregnancy — along with gentler alternatives that help your skin look radiant, refreshed, and well cared for.

Your Quick, Confidence-Boosting Guide

If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, you may choose to pause certain cosmetic ingredients that are often avoided during this time — such as retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, strong chemical peels, high-strength benzoyl peroxide, oxybenzone, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, and high-concentration essential oils.

The good news? There are plenty of gentle, effective cosmetic alternatives that help your skin look radiant and well cared for — including bakuchiol, niacinamide, azelaic acid, hyaluronic acid, PHAs, low-strength lactic acid, and mineral sunscreens.

Looking for pregnancy-friendly skincare options from YEOUTH? Many expectant and TTC individuals gravitate toward appearance-enhancing essentials like Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Niacinamide Serum, Vitamin C Facial Cleanser, Vitamin C & E Serum, Day/Night Cream, and Radiance Eye Gel to help support a glowing, refreshed complexion throughout their journey.

1. Retinoids (Retinol, Retinaldehyde, Retinoic Acid, Adapalene)

Ingredient Description 

Retinoids — such as retinol, retinaldehyde, and adapalene — are widely used in cosmetic formulations to help improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture, and overall skin smoothness. They are known for supporting a more refined and radiant look by promoting surface-level renewal.

Why Avoid During Pregnancy 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) includes topical retinoids in its list of ingredients commonly avoided during pregnancy out of caution due to absorption potential.

Safer Cosmetic Alternatives:

• Bakuchiol -  Helps support a smoother, more refined-looking complexion while offering a gentle alternative to traditional retinoids.

• Niacinamide -  Refines the appearance of pores and uneven tone.
  

• Peptides - Amino-acid complexes that help skin look firmer, more refreshed, and visibly revitalized.

⭐ YEOUTH Alternatives

• Niacinamide Serum- A gentle, multitasking serum that helps skin look smoother, brighter, and more refined.
  

• Day/Night Cream- A comforting moisturizer that supports a soft, well-nourished appearance throughout the day and night.
  
  

2. High-Dose Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Ingredient Description 

Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid used to help refine the look of visible pores, smooth uneven texture, and provide gentle exfoliation for a clearer-looking complexion.

Why Avoid High Strengths 

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes that while certain topical uses may be acceptable, high-concentration salicylic acid products and BHA chemical peels are usually avoided during pregnancy due to their stronger exfoliating effects.

Safer Cosmetic Alternatives:

• Lactic Acid (low strength) - A gentle AHA that softens and freshens the skin’s appearance without harsh exfoliation.
  

• PHA (Gluconolactone, Lactobionic Acid) - Ultra-gentle exfoliants that refine the look of texture while maintaining hydration.
  

• Azelaic Acid - Helps improve the appearance of uneven texture and supports a more luminous look.
  
  

⭐ YEOUTH Alternatives

• Vitamin C Facial Cleanser – A refreshing gel cleanser that helps brighten the look of dullness while leaving skin feeling clean and conditioned.
  

• Hyaluronic Acid Serum- A lightweight hydrator that enhances the appearance of plumpness and promotes a smooth, dewy look.

3. Hydroquinone

Ingredient Description

Hydroquinone is included in some cosmetic skin-brightening products to improve the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone, offering a more uniform-looking complexion.

Why Avoid During Pregnancy 

Multiple authoritative sources note that hydroquinone has relatively high systemic absorption compared to other topical cosmetic ingredients. Because pregnancy-specific safety data is limited, dermatology experts advise avoiding it while pregnant or trying to conceive.

Safer Cosmetic Alternatives:

• Vitamin C- Brightens the skin’s appearance and supports a vibrant glow.
  

• Niacinamide - Refines the appearance of pores and uneven tone.
  

• Azelaic Acid - Promotes a clearer, more uniform-looking complexion with a gentle profile.

⭐ YEOUTH Alternatives

• Vitamin C & E Serum-  A radiance-boosting serum that helps enhance brightness and even-looking tone for a more vibrant appearance.
  

• Niacinamide Serum-  Helps support a refined, balanced-looking complexion with a gentle, non-irritating feel.
  
  

4. High-Dose Benzoyl Peroxide

Ingredient Description 

Benzoyl Peroxide is a cosmetic active often used in clarifying products to help improve the appearance of blemishes and visible congestion, contributing to a cleaner-looking complexion.

Why Avoid High Concentrations

While benzoyl peroxide has low systemic absorption, several clinical sources recommend limited or conservative use during pregnancy, especially avoiding higher-strength formulas.

Safer Cosmetic Alternatives:

• Azelaic Acid- A clarifying alternative that supports a more even and refreshed appearance.
  

• Niacinamide- Helps calm and refine the look of the skin.
  

• Sulfur-based cosmetics- Traditional clarifying options supporting a cleaner-looking complexion.
  
  

⭐ YEOUTH Alternatives

• Vitamin C Facial Cleanser -  Helps support a fresh, clarified appearance without overly strong actives.

• Niacinamide Serum - Helps refine the look of texture and supports a smoother, more even appearance.

• Hyaluronic Acid Serum – Enhances the look of hydration for a soft, plump finish.

5. Essential Oils (High Concentration)

Ingredient Description 

Essential oils are aromatic plant extracts used in skincare to enhance sensory experience or fragrance. While they can be enjoyable, some essential oils may cause increased sensitivity, especially in individuals with delicate skin.

Why Avoid in Pregnancy 

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) advises caution with certain essential oils during pregnancy because pregnant individuals may experience heightened sensitivity.

Safer Alternatives:

• Fragrance-free skincare - Ideal for sensitive skin moments, offering a calm, low-irritation experience.

• Gentle botanical extracts - Plant-derived ingredients that support a fresh, balanced appearance.

⭐ YEOUTH Alternatives

• Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum- Fragrance-free and ideal for individuals seeking minimal-sensory, gentle hydration.

• Radiance Eye Gel - A cooling, lightweight gel that helps revive the look of tired eyes with a refreshed, well-rested appearance.
  
  

6. Strong Chemical Peels (High AHA, BHA, TCA Peels)

Ingredient Description 

High-concentration AHA, BHA, TCA, or Jessner peels work by providing intense exfoliation, which can noticeably enhance the appearance of smoothness and brightness but may also cause irritation or heightened sensitivity.

Why Avoid During Pregnancy 

Dermatology experts often recommend avoiding professional-level chemical peels during pregnancy because the skin becomes more sensitive, strong acids carry higher irritation and pigmentation risks, and safety data is limited. 

Safer Cosmetic Alternatives:

• PHA - Gentle exfoliation that smooths the look of texture.

• Low-dose lactic acid- Softly promotes a glowing, refreshed appearance.
  

• Enzyme exfoliants- Fruit-derived enzymes that brighten the look of the skin.

⭐ YEOUTH Alternatives

• Day/Night Cream – Helps maintain a soft, hydrated, and well-cared-for look without intense exfoliating agents.
  
  

7. Oxybenzone (Certain Chemical Sunscreens)

Ingredient Description 

Oxybenzone is a widely used chemical UV filter in sunscreen products that helps protect skin from UV radiation by absorbing ultraviolet light.

Why Avoid During Pregnancy 

FDA-led studies published in JAMA demonstrate measurable systemic absorption of oxybenzone and several other chemical filters, prompting many pregnant individuals to choose mineral sunscreen instead.

Safer Sunscreen Alternatives:

• Zinc Oxide - A mineral UV filter that reflects light and offers a gentle feel on the skin.

• Titanium Dioxide - A physical filter known for comfort and broad-spectrum protection.

⭐ YEOUTH Note

YEOUTH does not currently offer sunscreen products; however, many pregnant and TTC individuals prefer mineral-based formulas (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) for a gentle, physical UV protection option.

8. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

Ingredient Description 

Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives were used in some older cosmetic formulations to help maintain freshness and prevent microbial growth.

Why Avoid During Pregnancy 

These ingredients are avoided by many consumers due to potential irritation and sensitivity, with both environmental health groups and dermatology professionals encouraging caution.

Safer Alternatives:

• Phenoxyethanol- A modern preservative that supports freshness without older methods.

• Sodium benzoate - A gentle option for maintaining shelf stability.

• Potassium sorbate -Helps keep formulas safe and long-lasting with a mild touch.

⭐ YEOUTH Note

YEOUTH formulas use contemporary preservation systems and avoid older formaldehyde-releasing ingredients.

Important Disclaimer

This blog is intended for general informational and cosmetic-education purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it replace guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Everyone’s skin and pregnancy journey is unique, and safety considerations may vary. Always consult your healthcare provider, dermatologist, or obstetrician before introducing or changing any skincare products during pregnancy or while trying to conceive.

Share Your Experience

Have you tried switching to gentler skincare during your pregnancy or TTC journey?
Your insights may help someone navigating the same phase. Feel free to share your thoughts and questions below.