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20 Best Pregnancy Skin Care Products of 2024

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

Are you pregnant and wondering if you need to change up your skin care routine?

Between pregnancy acne, increased skin sensitivity, and the occasional dark spot, you may find yourself needing a host of new products. Or you may realize your regular skin care products aren’t the safest for your baby.

We’ve put in hours of research to help you weed through the countless skin care products marketed to pregnant women. We’ll answer all your questions about skin changes during pregnancy and explain which beauty products you should avoid.

We’ll also list our top 20 recommendations for the safest and all-around best beauty and skin care products for pregnancy.

Our Top Picks

We independently research, assess and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
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Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

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


The Best Pregnancy Skin Care Products of 2024

Here are our favorite pregnancy-safe skin care products.

Beautycounter Melting Body Balm

Best Moisturizer for Pregnancy

This lotion will help you moisturize your skin without exposing it to harmful chemicals. The company has its own “Never List” of ingredients to provide the safest products to everyone.

It is non-greasy and unscented. This means it has a lower chance of irritating sensitive skin and won’t bother you if you’re sensitive to smells during pregnancy.

It is also cruelty-free, having not been tested on animals.


Kneipp Lavender Body Oil

Best Body Oil for Pregnancy

Does pregnancy have you feeling stressed? The calming scent of lavender in this oil can help you unwind after a long day.

Whether you’re using it as a moisturizer or massage oil or pouring it in the bath, you can feel good that this product is made primarily with plant oils. It helps to moisturize your skin without a greasy feeling.

It also contains vitamin E, which helps with scarring and stretch marks.

Personal Insight

My experience with this lavender body oil has been wonderful. The light floral scent is pleasant and not overpowering, and the oil absorbs well, leaving my skin feeling soft and moisturized without any stickiness. I've even used it on my face and noticed a radiant glow without causing breakouts or clogged pores. Although the lavender scent was subtle, I appreciate that it doesn't irritate my sensitivities and provides a calming effect.


Method Body Wash

Best Body Wash for Pregnancy

This body wash is made from natural ingredients, crafted with biodegradable formulation. It contains no parabens that can interfere with your body’s natural estrogen, and it’s cruelty-free.

The rose water, sweet peonies, and pink salt makes taking a bath more refreshing, giving a moisturized skin. It leaves a refreshing scent that may appeal to you in the morning if you suffer from morning sickness.

A little goes a long way with this product, thus, this is at a budget-friendly price point.


Glow Organics Belly Butter

Best Body Butter for Pregnancy

This belly butter can help you soothe ultra-dry, irritated, or stretch-marked skin with 100% organic and vegan ingredients. It is also cruelty-free.

It is composed primarily of ultra-moisturizing shea butter and cocoa butter. And this belly butter contains no parabens, synthetic ingredients, dyes, phthalates, or artificial fragrances, making it less likely to have ingredients that will irritate your skin.

There are no hidden ingredients, and it is made right here in the USA.

Individual Opinion

I'm thrilled with the results I've experienced using this belly butter during my pregnancy. I applied it twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed, and found that it effectively prevented stretch marks. The texture is a bit solid at room temperature, but it melts easily once warmed up in your hands and moisturizes the skin thoroughly. Although the price may be a bit steep for the amount provided, the effectiveness in preventing stretch marks and leaving my skin smooth and hydrated makes it worthwhile.


Earth Mama Belly Butter

Best for Stretch Marks

What better way to battle stretch marks than with a product designed specifically for your pregnant belly?

This product is free of parabens and contains no artificial fragrance. Its naturally occurring fragrance is light and won’t aggravate morning sickness.

It is made with organic ingredients, so you can feel good about slathering it all over your belly. And it has been dermatologist tested to ensure it doesn’t cause irritation.

First-Hand Impression

As a mom-to-be in my third trimester, I've been using this product since my second trimester to prevent stretch marks and relieve itchiness. Every night, I apply it and I'm pleased to say that I haven't noticed any stretch marks yet. The oil has a lightweight texture, but it doesn't absorb as well as I'd like; however, a little goes a long way. The scent is quite strong, but it doesn't bother me too much.


Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Bust Cream

Best Bust Cream for Pregnancy

This natural bust cream has been dermatologist tested and contains shea butter, vitamin E, and elastin.

It is designed to help firm and tone the skin on your bust. The argan oil with high vitamin E levels helps fight stretch marks you may have developed.

It has fatty acids and antioxidants, helping to soften and condition the skin. However, be advised that when using this product, you should wipe it off your breasts before nursing.

Personal Experience

My experience with this cocoa butter cream has been surprisingly positive. After using it consistently for about three weeks, I noticed a significant reduction in the appearance of my stretch marks and an increase in firmness. The pleasant smell and lightweight texture make applying the cream an enjoyable part of my daily routine. As someone who has struggled with sagging breasts, this product has helped boost my confidence by delivering noticeable results. While it may not be equivalent to a breast lift, it has certainly made a difference in my overall appearance and satisfaction with my body.


Aphrona LED Face Mask

Best for Acne

If simple hygiene changes make no difference in your stubborn pregnancy acne, it may be time to invest in a non-medicated product.

Though pricey, this mask uses only LED light — with absolutely no harmful chemicals — to battle acne bacteria at its source and help to clear your complexion. And since it’s a multi-use product, you can continue to use it even after pregnancy to help with anti-aging and uneven skin tone.

With this mask, you’ll get to use the same technology at home that upscale dermatology salons use.


Aleavia Purifying Organic Facial Cleanser

Best Facial Cleanser for Pregnancy

This gentle and effective facial cleanser doesn’t contain any ingredients that could irritate your sensitive skin.

It is 100% natural and is made with organic ingredients. It contains no toxins, artificial fragrances, dyes, GMOs, and the cleanser is paraben-free.

Even though it’s gentle on your skin, it’s still effective and will even remove waterproof makeup and mascara at the end of a long day.

Community Review

I recently tried this facial cleanser and found it to be quite effective in removing makeup and sweat, while also being gentle on my sensitive skin. The simple, natural ingredients are a big plus for me, especially during pregnancy when I wanted to avoid harsh chemicals. One downside is that it can sting if it gets in your eyes, but it's a minor issue considering the overall benefits. The only improvement I'd suggest is more sustainable packaging, as the current plastic packaging isn't the most eco-friendly option.


Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes

Best Face Wipes for Pregnancy

These pre-moistened cleansing towels are the ultimate convenience and are made of 99% natural ingredients. They are especially great for sensitive skin.

The aloe formula helps calm your skin, and the simple wipes cleanse your skin thoroughly without the need to rinse your face afterward.

They are hypoallergenic and free of fragrances and contain cotton extract to help keep them soft. They are also made with ingredients certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, so you can rest assured this product won’t affect the environment.

Individual Opinion

For someone with sensitive skin, these cleaning wipes have been a great addition to my daily routine. The packaging seals well, ensuring the towelettes stay fresh and moist. Not only do they effectively remove makeup, but they also leave my skin feeling cool and smooth after use. However, I wouldn't recommend using them to remove eye makeup, as it caused some discomfort. Despite being slightly more expensive than other options, these wipes are definitely worth the investment for their gentleness and refreshing feel on sensitive skin.


Puracy Natural Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Pregnancy

This natural pregnancy-safe shampoo helps to cleanse your hair effectively without the use of harsh chemicals or sulfates.

Unlike some natural shampoos that don’t lather well, this one produces enough lather to cleanse your thick pregnancy hair. It has a citrus and mint scent that is typically tolerable for women with even the most severe morning sickness.

It can even be used on color-treated hair and comes in a pump bottle for easy application in the shower.


Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner

Best Conditioner for Pregnancy

This rich moisturizer contains shea butter, sea kelp, and argan oil to keep your thick hair manageable. It’s safe for use on all hair types, including color-treated and over-processed hair.

It is made with ethically-traded natural and certified organic ingredients so you can feel good about your purchase, knowing it contains no harmful ingredients that could pose a risk to you or your baby.

Personal Experience

I've been using this conditioner for a while now and it has truly improved the health of my hair. Living in a dry environment, my hair was often brittle and frizzy, but this product has helped restore its natural moisture and softness. The scent is a bit strong for my liking, but the results are worth it. With consistent use, I've noticed a significant difference in my hair's appearance and texture, making it smoother and more manageable.


Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel

Best Hair Dye for Pregnancy

Professionals tend to disagree on whether it’s safe to dye your hair while pregnant. However, the amount of chemicals absorbed into your body is minimal, so most people tend to think it’s OK, especially since dyes are applied so infrequently.

This hair color is an excellent compromise between the full-scale chemical dyes you may be accustomed to and natural dyes that have a poor reputation for being ineffective or not lasting.

While Herbatint does contain some chemicals, it contains far less than most other brands available. Even better, the scent is not as strong as most coloring products as it doesn’t contain ammonia.

This product is also cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

Personal Insight

Bought this Herbatint hair color and I've been really impressed with the results. Not only does it provide great coverage for my grays, but it's also cruelty-free and more natural than other brands. I love that I can save any unused product for future use, making it more economical and eco-friendly. The color is a bit darker than expected, so you might want to choose a shade lighter, but overall, I'm very satisfied with this product.


Karma Organic Nail Polish

Best Nail Polish for Pregnancy

This nail polish line contains no toluene, formaldehyde, phthalates, or parabens. It is safe for pregnant women, children, and allergy sufferers.

They have no harsh odor, and the results are chip resistant. The polishes come in many colors and finishes.

This nail polish will not cause your nails to turn yellow, and they even contain ingredients that help strengthen your nails.

Karma Organic Nail Polish is certified cruelty-free, and the packaging is 100% recyclable.

Community Review

If you're looking for a non-toxic, cruelty-free nail polish with great coverage and staying power, this Farmer's Market Berries shade by Karma Organic is a fantastic choice. After using the Organic Lavender Nail Polish Remover and Two In One Base/Top Coat, I found that the polish stayed on my nails for a full two weeks without chipping or cracking. Not only is the color vibrant and beautiful, but the lack of overpowering odor makes the application process much more enjoyable.


Piggy Paint Nail Polish Remover

Best Nail Polish Remover for Pregnancy

Acetone is not only harmful internally, but it also dries out and weakens your nails. This non-acetone nail polish remover has aloe vera to help condition and strengthen your nails while effectively removing your polish.

Piggy Paint nail polish remover was designed for kids as young as 3 years old to use safely to remove their Piggy Paint, so you can rest assured it will be safe for you to use during pregnancy.

While other brands of non-acetone polish removers have a reputation for ineffectiveness, reviewers agree this one works well, without the strong chemical scent.

Individual Opinion

I recently tried this nail polish remover and found it to be a safer, non-toxic alternative to traditional removers. While it did require a bit more effort to remove the polish, I discovered that soaking cotton balls in the remover, placing them on my nails, and covering with aluminum foil for five minutes made the process more efficient. The remover doesn't have the unpleasant odor associated with regular nail polish removers, which is a definite plus. My family members have also used this product and appreciated its gentle, low-odor formula. Although the bottle design could use some improvement, the overall experience with this nail polish remover was positive and I value its non-toxic properties.


Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion

Best for Sun Protection

This SPF 30 sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection. This means it blocks UVA and UVB rays from the sun — all without gluten, oil, or parabens.

It’s even enriched with vitamin E, an excellent skin moisturizer an0d conditioner.

It is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores, and it goes on silky rather than greasy. It is waterproof for up to 80 minutes and has been tested and approved by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

It does not contain some of the most common allergens and is suitable for sensitive skin. It’s also vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.

First-Hand Impression

In my experience, this sunscreen has been the best I've ever used. Not only did it protect my skin from getting sunburned, but it also has an amazing banana scent that my kids absolutely loved. This sunscreen is non-greasy, so I didn't feel the need to wash my hands after applying it. It also spreads easily on the skin without leaving a pale residue or feeling heavy. I appreciate that it's made with eco-friendly ingredients that are better for the ocean and doesn't contain chemicals that can cause allergic reactions.


Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Belli helps to calm your skin, reduce inflammation, and calm acne. This product will help with overall skin appearance.

This facial wash is OB-GYN and dermatologist approved and helps give your face a good cleansing routine.

This product is best suited for those with acne-prone skin types. Its formula is never tested on animals and is gluten- and allergen-free. It also contains no harmful chemicals, parabens, or artificial dyes.


Bio-Oil Multiuse Skincare Oil

Best for Lightening

This product doesn’t contain any of the dangerous lightening chemicals you need to avoid during pregnancy. Instead, it uses safe ingredients to help even out skin tone and minimize dark spots.

This bio-oil has no formaldehyde, parabens, or sulfates. It is not greasy and is hypoallergenic, so it is not likely to irritate your skin. Using it can also help with hydration, wrinkles, and fine lines.

The company is committed to cruelty-free products, so it has not been tested on animals.

Personal Insight

When I started using this bio oil, I noticed a significant improvement in my skin's discoloration and elasticity. I've been applying it consistently on my belly during pregnancy, and so far, no stretch marks have appeared. This oil not only works wonders on scars and dark spots but also smells pleasant, making it an essential part of my daily skincare routine.


Aloe Infusion Face & Body Cream

Best for Rehydrating

If you have severely dry skin, go for two of the best moisturizing ingredients known to man — aloe and shea butter. This product has both to help you soothe ultra-dry skin without any of the harmful chemical additives you should be avoiding.

It is made with organic ingredients and has 75 vitamins and antioxidants. It contains no artificial colors, fragrances, or parabens.

It even comes with a money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with the product.

Community Review

In my experience, this Aloe Infusion Body and Face Cream is a highly effective moisturizer for sensitive skin areas like elbows and fingernail beds. I've been using it for years and have even noticed improvement in keloids and skin irritation from a skin darkening disease. However, it did cause some tiny linear wrinkles and didn't work well under makeup on my face. The cream has no fragrance and a little goes a long way, making it easy to apply and absorb. While it may not work for everyone's facial skin, it's definitely worth trying for its soothing and moisturizing properties on other body parts.


Neutrogena Hydro Boost

Best Anti-Aging Cream for Pregnancy

Since you can’t use traditional retinol-based anti-aging products, this product is the next best thing. It uses hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in your body, to help your skin retain moisture. This causes it to become extra plump or full, filling in fine lines and wrinkles without harmful retinol.

It is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, dye-free, and oil-free. While it goes on like a gel, it is absorbed quickly and acts like a cream.

Neutrogena does not test its products on animals, except in the rare cases where it is required by law in other countries.

Individual Opinion

I've been using Neutrogena Hydro Boost for a while now, and my experience has been superb. The hyaluronic acid formula keeps my skin feeling hydrated and smooth, without the heaviness of other moisturizers. As someone with sensitive skin, I appreciate that it's fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, preventing breakouts and irritation. Though it may not be the ultimate solution for wrinkles, it provides lasting hydration throughout a workday or night, making it a reliable, gentle choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.


LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream Moisturizer

Best Eye Cream for Pregnancy

This retinol-free eye cream will help smooth, firm, lift, and brighten the area around your eyes with none of the additives you need to avoid during pregnancy.

It contains no parabens, artificial dyes, or fragrances. It is made with natural and organic ingredients, so you can feel good about putting it on your skin. It is also vegan-friendly and is never tested on animals.

It’s gentle enough for twice-daily use on the most sensitive skin, and if you’re not happy, there’s no risk because this eye cream comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

First-Hand Impression

These eye cream bottles have a unique dispenser, which can sometimes cause the cream to shoot out unexpectedly. Despite this, the product is highly effective for moisturizing the delicate under-eye area and reducing the appearance of fine lines. I have sensitive skin and did not experience any adverse reactions, which is a plus. However, it may not completely eliminate dark circles or puffiness, and the dispenser may require some careful handling to avoid wasting the product.

Skin Changes During Pregnancy

You knew your belly would grow, but you probably had no idea about the host of other changes your body would experience during pregnancy.

One of the more unexpected things you may experience is a change in your skin.

Some of the most common skin changes during pregnancy are:

  • Pregnancy glow: When you’re pregnant, the volume of blood coursing through your veins increases by nearly 50% (1). This increased blood flow can cause your face to appear brighter, giving you that gorgeous pregnancy glow that everyone raves about.
  • Increased acne: Some pregnant women glow, while other women get acne. How fair is that? Acne during pregnancy is incredibly common as pregnancy-related hormones increase oil production, resulting in more frequent or severe breakouts.
  • Skin darkening: Also known as the “mask of pregnancy,” hormones can cause your skin to darken, thanks to increased pigmentation. About 50% of pregnant women experience this phenomenon, usually on their forehead and cheeks.
  • Skin sensitivity: When you’re pregnant, you may find your skin is extra sensitive to environmental irritants and sun exposure (2). You may discover some of your previous skin care products irritate your skin. Or you may find that your skin needs extra care to keep from becoming itchy, inflamed, or breaking out.

How to Choose Pregnancy Safe Skin Care Products

When shopping for beauty products while pregnant, look for the following criteria:

Hypoallergenic

While the term hypoallergenic doesn’t mean the product is regulated by the FDA, it is a good indicator that it will likely cause fewer allergic reactions than other products. You should still review the ingredient list before purchasing a beauty product, but the label is a good first-line indicator it may be safe for your super-sensitive skin.

Paraben-Free

Parabens are preservatives commonly used in beauty products. They mimic estrogen in the body and should be avoided during pregnancy. A paraben-free product is a safe choice.

Lacking Harmful Ingredients

Review our list of ingredients to be avoided during pregnancy, and opt for products that don’t contain any of them.

Non-comedogenic

Non-comedogenic products will not clog your pores. Some women are more susceptible to acne when pregnant. If that sounds like you, choose a product that specifies it’s non-comedogenic so it won’t wreak havoc on your complexion.

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

Beauty Products To Avoid During Pregnancy

For a healthy pregnancy, these are some of the most common beauty and skin care ingredients you should avoid:

  • Retinoids/retinol: These are derivatives of vitamin A, commonly found in acne and anti-aging products.
  • Salicylic acid: It is generally recommended to avoid the frequent use of products with salicylic acid in them. It is an ingredient commonly found in products used to treat and manage acne.
  • Benzoyl peroxide: This is another ingredient often found in acne products. It’s best to avoid regular long-term exposure.
  • Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is linked to reduced fertility and miscarriage (3). You are most likely to encounter it in nail polish.
  • Soy: Soy can mimic estrogen in the body, so it’s best to avoid it during pregnancy. It can also make your dark skin patches worse.
  • Parabens: Parabens can also mimic estrogen in the body. During a time when your hormonal balance is so important, avoid products that may interfere with it.
  • Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone: You need to protect your skin, but opt for a barrier, such as a mineral sunscreen, over traditional varieties that contain oxybenzone. This chemical helps absorb the UV rays in your skin and helps you metabolize it. Mineral sunscreens sit atop your skin and never enter your bloodstream.

FAQs

What Is the Best Exfoliator During Pregnancy?

If you’re looking for an exfoliator that’s pregnancy-friendly, opt for one with natural ingredients like oats or jojoba beads.

They’ll softly buff away any dead skin cells without the harshness of chemicals. As for brand recommendations, Aleavia Purifying Facial Cleanse is a crowd-pleaser.

Can I Use Vitamin C Serum While Pregnant?

Go ahead, give your skin the vitamin C boost! Most vitamin C serums are safe to use during pregnancy. They can help with skin brightness and uneven tone. As always, check with your healthcare provider, and avoid any serums with retinol.


The Bottom Line

Our top pick as the best pregnancy skin care product is Glow Organics Belly Butter. Every pregnant mama needs a good, high-quality body butter to help ease discomforts related to abdominal skin stretching and help minimize stretch marks.

This product is organic, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, and developed specifically with the pregnant woman in mind — which is why it’s the perfect pregnancy skin care product every mama should have in her skin care arsenal.

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Headshot of Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

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.