Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: A guide for glowing, healthy skin in every trimester

Pregnancy is a time of transformation; physically, emotionally, hormonally - and your skincare routine needs to adapt accordingly.

As your body changes, so do the needs of your skin, making it essential to choose products that are not only effective but also safe for both you and your baby. From dryness and increased sensitivity to stretch marks and melasma, pregnancy brings unique skincare challenges that require a thoughtful and gentle approach.

In the UK, guidelines for safe pregnancy skincare emphasise avoiding certain ingredients (like high-strength retinoids, hydroquinone, and some essential oils) while embracing hydration, barrier support, and sun protection. We've combined expert insight and top product recommendations to help you navigate this important phase with confidence.

Why Skincare Matters During Pregnancy

Lesley Bland, Consultant Midwife at My Expert Midwife, explains:

“Skin and body care is an essential part of pregnancy. From the very first trimester through to the postpartum period, your body undergoes remarkable changes, many of which can be overwhelming, especially for first-time mums. It’s completely normal to feel a little out of sync with your body during this time.”

Caring for your skin isn’t just about appearance - it’s a way to connect with your changing body and ease common concerns like dryness, itchiness, and sensitivity. It also offers a chance to indulge in self-care rituals that provide calm and comfort during a time of major adjustment.

Targeting Stretch Marks and Skin Tightness

As your pregnancy progresses, your skin stretches - particularly around the belly, hips, and breasts - which can lead to discomfort and visible stretch marks.

“While stretch marks are entirely natural and nothing to be ashamed of, they can also cause discomfort,” says Lesley Bland. “Our Fantastic Skin Elastic Stretch Mark and Pregnancy Serum is specially formulated to support skin through this process.”

Infused with calming lavender, soothing calendula, nourishing Vitamin E, and protective beeswax, this serum deeply hydrates and softens stretching skin, making it feel more supple and comfortable. Incorporating it into a daily massage can also become a mindful moment to connect with your growing bump.

Sensitive skin in pregnancy

Increased skin sensitivity during pregnancy is a common symptom, and it happens due to a combination of hormonal, vascular, and immune system changes. Pregnancy hormones increase dramatically, especially estrogen which can make the sensory nerves more responsive, leading to heightened irritation to products.

Additionally, blood volume increases by up to 50% during pregnancy to support the baby which causes increased circulation to the skin, making it more sensitive and sometimes flushed or warm, and lastly, pregnancy alters the immune system to prevent it from rejecting the baby (who is genetically distinct). This can make the skin more reactive to allergens or irritants, even if you weren’t sensitive before.

Lauren Harrison CEO and Co-founder of POD organics says, “During pregnancy, your skin becomes more sensitive and more absorbent, so it’s important to be mindful of what you’re putting on it. Organic skincare offers a level of reassurance - it’s free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and other potentially irritating ingredients. Choosing certified-organic products means you’re nourishing your body with clean, gentle care at a time when both you and your baby deserve the safest support possible.”

“Pregnancy can bring a number of skin changes - from dryness and increased sensitivity to itchiness and the appearance of stretch marks. Choosing organic skincare is a gentle, effective way to support your skin through these changes. Organic products are free from synthetic fragrances, harsh preservatives, and known irritants, making them safer for both mum and baby. It’s about feeling confident in what you’re using - and giving your skin the nourishment it needs during such a transformative time.”

Our top picks from POD

More great choices for sensitive skin

Pregnancy skincare & safety

Dr Aneka Patel , GP /Skincare Doctor and founder of Dr AKP Skincare recommends, “ultimately you want to focus in pregnancy on; safety of products, products of least harm but also effective, hydration, non irritable products and sun protection, while completely removing:

• Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin, Adapalene, etc.) – linked to birth defects

• • Salicylic acid (in high concentrations, like chemical peels)

  • Benzoyl peroxide – limited safety data; some use it sparingly, but many avoid

  • Hydroquinone – high absorption rate, avoid for melasma

  • Essential oils (certain ones like clary sage, rosemary, and tea tree in high concentrations)

  • Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate

Always consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist if you're unsure about specific ingredients.”

Anti-ageing concerns and pregnancy

Royal and A-list beautician, and Queen Camilla’s Facialist, Deborah Mitchell shares how women can safely target anti-ageing concerns while pregnant.

“Pregnancy is the most beautiful time, but for many can wreak havoc on our skin and how we feel. We look forward to the so-called pregnancy glow, but it’s not always the case and sometimes we’re left looking tired and feeling twice our age.

Often, people turn to essential oils given their natural stance. But during pregnancy, especially the first trimester, it’s ever so important to be careful of the type of essential oils you are using. They can be the most dangerous and harmful – especially when mixed with other ingredients – which women often do not know.

Coconut is a great anti-ageing ingredient and assists with the natural product of collagen helping generate firmer skin. Almond is extremely rich in Tocopherol, which keeps your skin supple and feeling young. Also Jojoba Oil – a really versatile oil that is rich in Vitamin E and helps with skins radiance.”