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Best Pregnancy Skin Care Products of 2025

Updated
Get your mom-glow on with these pregnancy-safe skin care products.

Are you pregnant and wondering if you need to overhaul your skincare routine?

Between hormonal acne, sudden sensitivity, and that “mask of pregnancy,” your skin goes through a lot. You might also realize your go-to creams contain ingredients that aren’t ideal for your growing baby.

We’ve done the research to help you navigate the beauty aisle safely. We will guide you through the common skin changes to expect and explain which ingredients to skip for the next nine months.

Here are our top 20 recommendations for the safest, most effective skincare products for pregnancy.

Our Top Picks

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Best Moisturizer for Pregnancy: Beautycounter Melting Body Balm
  • Clinically proven
  • Organic
  • All-day hydration
Best Body Oil: Kneipp Lavender
  • Pure blend of essential oils
  • Supports natural moisturization
  • Fast absorbing
Best Body Wash: Method Body Wash
  • Irresistible scent
  • Perfect for all skin types
  • Natural botanical ingredients
Best Belly Butter: Glow Organics
  • 100% organic
  • Vegan, gluten free, & cruelty-free
  • Made in the USA
Best for Stretch Marks: Earth Mama
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Certified to NSF/ANSI 305 standard
  • No artificial fragrance
Best Bust Cream for Pregnancy: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Bust Cream
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Has collagen and elastin
  • Paraben and phthalate-free
Best for Acne: Aphrona LED Face Mask
  • FDA-cleared light treatment mask
  • 3 LED colors
  • Chemical-free treatment
Best Facial Cleanser: Aleavia Purifying
  • Anti-aging
  • Combats signs of acne & scaring
  • 100% natural and organic
Best Face Wipes: Burt’s Bees Towelettes
  • Dermatologist & ophthalmologist tested
  • Natural, nutrient-rich ingredients
  • Non-irritating
Best Shampoo: Puracy Natural Shampoo
  • Developed by doctors
  • World-class blend of ingredients
  • Safe for sensitive skin

Skin Changes During Pregnancy

You knew your belly would grow, but nobody warned you about the face changes, right? Pregnancy hormones are powerful, and they affect your skin in surprising ways.

Here are a few common skin changes during pregnancy:

  • Pregnancy glow: This isn’t a myth. Your blood volume increases by nearly 50% when you’re expecting (1). That extra circulation can make your face look brighter and fuller.
  • Increased acne: While some glow, others break out. Acne during pregnancy is very common because surging hormones ramp up oil production, clogging pores.
  • Melasma: Often called the “mask of pregnancy,” this causes dark patches on the forehead, cheeks, and nose due to increased pigmentation. It affects about half of all pregnant women.
  • Sensitivity: Your skin might become extra sensitive to sun and environmental irritants (2). Products that never bothered you before might suddenly cause itching or redness.

How To Choose Pregnancy Safe Skin Care Products

When shopping for beauty products with a baby on board, keep an eye out for these criteria:

Hypoallergenic

While “hypoallergenic” isn’t a strictly regulated term, it usually indicates the product is formulated to minimize allergic reactions. Always check the ingredient list, but this label is a good starting point for sensitive pregnancy skin.

Paraben-Free

Parabens are preservatives used to extend shelf life, but they can mimic estrogen in the body. Since your hormones are already fluctuating, it is best to stick to paraben-free formulas during pregnancy.

Clean Ingredients

Scan the label for “nasties” like formaldehyde, phthalates, and retinoids. Opt for brands that focus on clean, non-toxic formulations to keep you and your baby safe.

Non-Comedogenic

If you are prone to breakouts, look for “non-comedogenic” on the bottle. This means the product is designed not to clog pores, which is a lifesaver when dealing with hormonal oil surges.

I always found the EWG app and the Think Dirty app handy to use for checking products when I was pregnant, and I continue to use these for my children.
Headshot of Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Editor's Note:

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Product Reviews

Navigating the beauty aisle can be overwhelming when you’re expecting. We’ve rounded up our favorite pregnancy-safe skincare products that are effective, safe, and pampering.

Beautycounter Melting Body Balm

Best Moisturizer for Pregnancy

This balm is a multitasker that hydrates without exposing you to questionable chemicals. Beautycounter is famous for their “Never List,” ensuring over 1,800 questionable ingredients stay out of their tubes.

It transforms from a balm to an oil as you apply it, leaving a non-greasy finish. Because it’s unscented, it is a fantastic choice if you are struggling with morning sickness or smell sensitivity.

Plus, it’s cruelty-free, so you can feel good about what you’re buying.


Kneipp Lavender Body Oil

Best Body Oil for Pregnancy

If pregnancy stress is keeping you up at night, this body oil doubles as aromatherapy. The lavender scent is calming, making it perfect for a pre-bedtime ritual.

You can use it as a direct moisturizer, a massage oil, or even add a few drops to your bathwater. It is plant-based and rich in Vitamin E, which helps improve skin elasticity and may help with stretch marks.

We love that it absorbs reasonably well, so you aren’t left feeling sticky.


Method Body Wash

Best Body Wash for Pregnancy

Method proves that safer products don’t have to break the bank. This body wash uses naturally derived ingredients and a biodegradable formula to clean without stripping your skin.

The scent profile, rose water, sweet peony, and pink salt, is refreshing without being overpowering. It leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized, which is helpful if pregnancy has dried out your epidermis.

It is free of parabens and phthalates, and a single bottle lasts a long time.


Glow Organics Belly Butter

Best Body Butter for Pregnancy

When your belly starts to itch and stretch, you need heavy-duty hydration. Glow Organics uses a 100% organic, vegan formula centered around shea and cocoa butter.

It is thick, creamy, and free from synthetics, dyes, and artificial fragrances. Because it lacks water or fillers, it creates a serious moisture barrier to help soothe tight skin.

It is made in the USA and is completely cruelty-free.


Earth Mama Belly Butter

Best for Stretch Marks

Earth Mama is a staple in the pregnancy world for a reason. This lotion is specifically formulated to help your skin stretch comfortably, reducing the itch that often comes with a growing bump.

The scent is naturally derived and very light, which is a huge plus if you are sensitive to smells. It’s rich in organic herbs and oils but doesn’t leave a heavy residue.

It has been dermatologist tested and contains no parabens or artificial preservatives.


Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Bust Cream

Best Bust Cream for Pregnancy

Your belly isn’t the only thing growing; your bust needs attention too. Palmer’s uses a blend of cocoa butter, shea butter, and Vitamin E to help firm and tone delicate skin.

It includes collagen and elastin to support skin structure, potentially helping ward off stretch marks in the chest area. The addition of Argan oil adds a nice boost of hydration.

Just a heads-up: if you use this while breastfeeding later on, make sure to wipe it off before nursing.


Aphrona LED Face Mask

Best for Acne

If you are battling stubborn hormonal acne but can’t use strong chemical treatments, light therapy is a fantastic alternative.

This mask uses LED light to target acne-causing bacteria and inflammation without any creams or serums. It is an investment, but it’s chemical-free and reusable long after the baby arrives for anti-aging benefits.

It’s like bringing the dermatologist’s office into your living room.


Aleavia Purifying Organic Facial Cleanser

Best Facial Cleanser for Pregnancy

Aleavia uses a prebiotic formula to gently cleanse the skin while balancing its natural microbiome. It’s a great choice if your skin is freaking out from hormonal shifts.

The ingredient list is short, natural, and organic. It is free from sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), artificial fragrances, and dyes.

Despite being gentle, it is surprisingly effective at breaking down dirt and even waterproof makeup.


Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes

Best Face Wipes for Pregnancy

Let’s be real: sometimes you are just too tired to wash your face. These pre-moistened wipes are a lifesaver for those exhausted evenings.

Formulated with 99% natural ingredients, they use cotton extract to soften skin and aloe to soothe irritation. They are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, making them safe for sensitive flare-ups.

There is no need to rinse afterward, so you can keep them on your nightstand for the ultimate lazy-girl hack.


Puracy Natural Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Pregnancy

Finding a pregnancy-safe shampoo that actually lathers can be tough, but Puracy nails it. This formula cleanses effectively without sulfates or harsh chemicals.

It uses coconut-based cleansers and has a refreshing citrus and mint scent that usually plays nice with morning sickness. It’s gentle enough for daily use and works well on all hair types.

The pump bottle is a convenient touch for slippery showers.


Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner

Best Conditioner for Pregnancy

Pregnancy hair can get thick, but it can also get dry. This conditioner is packed with raw shea butter, sea kelp, and argan oil to deeply hydrate thirsty strands.

It is safe for color-treated hair and contains no sulfates, parabens, or mineral oil. We love that it doubles as a leave-in conditioner if you need extra control over frizz.

Plus, Shea Moisture is committed to ethical trading and uses certified organic ingredients.


Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel

Best Hair Dye for Pregnancy

Most doctors say hair dye is okay after the first trimester, but many moms prefer a gentler option. Herbatint is a gel-based permanent color that avoids ammonia and harsh smells.

It balances chemical efficacy with herbal extracts to protect your hair shaft during the coloring process. It covers grays well and doesn’t fade as fast as some semi-permanent natural dyes.

Since there is no ammonia, you won’t be overwhelmed by fumes in the bathroom.


Karma Organic Nail Polish

Best Nail Polish for Pregnancy

Traditional nail polishes are often loaded with “The Toxic Trio” (toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP). Karma Organic skips those, offering a safer way to get your mani-pedi fix.

The formula is chip-resistant and comes in a huge variety of trendy colors. It is designed to be durable without yellowing your natural nails.

It’s safe for pregnant women, kids, and anyone with chemical sensitivities.


Piggy Paint Nail Polish Remover

Best Nail Polish Remover for Pregnancy

Acetone fumes are strong enough to make anyone dizzy, let alone a pregnant woman. Piggy Paint’s remover is acetone-free and virtually odorless.

It uses an aloe vera-infused formula to condition nails while removing paint. It was originally designed for kids, which makes it an ultra-safe choice for expecting moms.

Be patient with it; since it lacks harsh solvents, you may need to soak the nail a few seconds longer than usual, but it works.


Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion

Best for Sun Protection

Pregnancy makes your skin more susceptible to burning and sun spots (melasma). This SPF 30 lotion gives you broad-spectrum protection without the oxybenzone found in many chemical sunscreens.

Enriched with Vitamin E, it moisturizes while it protects. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and smells like summer without being cloying.

It’s water-resistant for 80 minutes, making it a great pick for babymoons or pool days.


Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Belli takes safety seriously, screening ingredients to avoid links to birth defects or breastfeeding issues. This face wash uses lactic acid (a safe alpha hydroxy acid) to gently exfoliate and clear pores.

It features lemon peel oil and green tea extract to brighten your complexion. It cleanses deeply without over-drying, which is key when your skin is already acting chaotic.

It is free of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, offering a safer path to clear skin.


Bio-Oil Multiuse Skincare Oil

Best for Lightening

Bio-Oil is a cult favorite for scars and stretch marks, but it also helps with uneven skin tone. If melasma is getting you down, this oil can help improve the appearance of dark spots.

It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly. The formula is hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin, containing soothing calendula and lavender oils.

Consistent use is key here to see results on hydration and skin texture.


Aloe Infusion Face & Body Cream

Best for Rehydrating

For severely dry or itchy skin, simple is often better. This cream relies on organic aloe vera and shea butter to calm irritation instantly.

It penetrates deep into the skin layers rather than just sitting on top. It is packed with antioxidants and vitamins but skips the artificial fragrances and dyes that trigger reactions.

It is a great all-over body cream that won’t leave you feeling greasy.


Neutrogena Hydro Boost

Best Anti-Aging Cream for Pregnancy

Retinol is a no-go during pregnancy, but you don’t have to give up on anti-aging. This gel-cream uses hyaluronic acid to pull moisture into the skin, plumping out fine lines naturally.

It is oil-free, dye-free, and fragrance-free. The texture is unique, it absorbs like a gel but moisturizes like a heavy cream.

It’s widely available and recommended by dermatologists for keeping skin supple and bouncy.


LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream Moisturizer

Best Eye Cream for Pregnancy

Tired eyes are common in pregnancy (and definitely after birth!). This cream brightens and firms the under-eye area using natural botanical ingredients like rosehip and hibiscus.

It avoids harsh chemicals and is vegan and cruelty-free. The formula is gentle enough to use twice a day without causing stinging or irritation.

Plus, it helps prep the under-eye area for concealer if you are trying to hide those dark circles.


Beauty Products To Avoid During Pregnancy

To keep your pregnancy healthy and safe, steer clear of these specific ingredients found in many common beauty products:

  • Retinoids/Retinol: These Vitamin A derivatives are great for anti-aging but are linked to birth defects when used in high doses. Avoid them entirely.
  • High-Dose Salicylic Acid: While low percentages in wash-off products are often okayed by doctors, it’s generally safer to avoid high-concentration leave-on treatments and oral medications.
  • Hydroquinone: Often used for skin lightening, this absorbs into the skin at high rates (35-45%), so it’s best to skip it while expecting.
  • Formaldehyde: Linked to fertility issues, this is a known carcinogen found in some nail polishes and hair straightening treatments (3).
  • Phthalates: These chemicals are endocrine disruptors often hidden in synthetic fragrances. They can interfere with hormone function.
  • Parabens: Like phthalates, these preservatives can mimic estrogen. It’s safer to choose paraben-free options.
  • Oxybenzone: Found in chemical sunscreens, this filter is a potential hormone disruptor. Stick to mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) instead.

FAQs

What Is the Best Exfoliator During Pregnancy?

If you need to slough off dead skin, skip the harsh chemical peels. Look for gentle physical exfoliators with oats or jojoba beads, or mild chemical exfoliants like lactic acid. The Aleavia Purifying Facial Cleanse is a great gentle option.

Can I Use Vitamin C Serum While Pregnant?

Yes, Vitamin C is generally considered safe for pregnancy. It is a fantastic alternative to retinols for brightening skin and fighting dark spots. Just double-check that your serum doesn’t contain added retinoids or salicylic acid.

Is Glycolic Acid Safe During Pregnancy?

Glycolic acid is generally considered safe in low concentrations (usually under 10%). However, because your skin is more sensitive right now, it’s smart to use it sparingly and always wear sunscreen, as it makes you more prone to sunburn.


The Bottom Line

Our top pick for the best pregnancy skin care product is the Glow Organics Belly Butter. Every mom-to-be deserves a rich, organic butter to soothe itchy skin and help with stretch marks.

It’s hypoallergenic, paraben-free, and made in the USA, giving you peace of mind while you pamper your growing bump.

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Reviewed by

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC is a cardiology nurse and freelance medical writer. Katelyn has 8 years of nursing experience inpatient and outpatient, primarily medical-surgical and cardiac. After having two children she has a passion for Women’s Health and Lactation teaching and support.