Glow, Gently: Safe Skincare for Conception & Pregnancy
Safe Skin During Pregnancy (and While Trying to Conceive)
Before making changes to your skincare routine during pregnancy or while trying to conceive, it’s always encouraged to seek guidance from a dermatologist or qualified healthcare provider—especially if you’re managing acne, pigmentation, eczema, or other ongoing skin concerns. Professional advice can help ensure your routine supports your skin during preconception, fertility treatments, and throughout your pregnancy journey—safely.
Pregnancy—and even the time leading up to it—can bring noticeable changes to your skin. Hormones may influence acne, dryness, pigmentation, or sensitivity, sometimes before you even realize you’re pregnant.
At Project Motherhood, we believe skincare during this season should feel intentional, gentle, and empowering, not stressful. Whether you’re trying to conceive, undergoing fertility treatments, or already expecting, being mindful of what you put on your skin is a simple way to support your body during this transformative time.
Why Skincare Choices Matter
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and while not all topical products are absorbed systemically, certain ingredients can penetrate the skin barrier. For this reason, many women choose to simplify their skincare routine and avoid ingredients that may be more aggressive or less studied during preconception and pregnancy.
This isn’t about eliminating everything — it’s about making informed, thoughtful swaps that feel supportive rather than overwhelming.
Ingredients Many Women Choose to Avoid or Limit
While this is not medical advice, many pregnancy-conscious routines tend to avoid or limit the following ingredients, particularly in leave-on products:
Acne & Exfoliating Ingredients
Salicylic acid (BHA), especially in higher concentrations
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, often found in toners and chemical exfoliants
Benzoyl peroxide, which is commonly discussed with a healthcare provider before use
Anti-Aging Ingredients
Retinoids (retinol, retinal, tretinoin, adapalene)
Vitamin A derivatives frequently found in anti-aging serums and creams
Skin Lightening & Brightening Agents
Hydroquinone
Certain strong pigment-correcting treatments
If a product promises dramatic or rapid results, it’s often worth pausing and reviewing the ingredient list more closely.
Sunscreen: What to Watch For
Daily sun protection is especially important during pregnancy, as hormonal changes can increase the risk of pigmentation such as melasma.
Many women choose to avoid certain chemical sunscreen filters, including:
Oxybenzone
Avobenzone
Octinoxate
Homosalate
Instead, mineral-based sunscreens containing:
Zinc oxide
Titanium dioxide
are often preferred because they sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV rays rather than being absorbed.
Pregnancy-Friendly Skincare Ingredients Many Women Love
During this season, many women focus on hydration and skin barrier support rather than correction. Gentle ingredients commonly found in pregnancy-friendly routines include:
Hyaluronic acid
Vitamin C (in mild formulations)
Niacinamide
Aloe vera
Shea butter
Plant-based oils
Often, less is more.
Skin Changes Are Normal
Breakouts, dark spots, dryness, and increased sensitivity are very common during pregnancy and preconception. These changes don’t mean something is wrong—they reflect a body undergoing significant hormonal shifts. Be patient with your skin and with yourself.
A Project Motherhood Reminder
At Project Motherhood, we approach pregnancy and preconception with a holistic and compassionate lens. Skincare during this season isn’t about achieving perfection — it’s about supporting your body as it nurtures life.
Gentle care goes a long way 👉 Learn more.
