Prenatal Summer Skin Care from Sunscreen and Cleansers to Moisturizers

Keep your skin soft and protected from the sun with products that are safe for pregnancy.

July 20, 2022
By: Amanda Mushro
Pregnant woman putting on sunscreen on the beach with the sea in the background, she is wearing sunglasses and a hat

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Pregnant woman putting on sunscreen on the beach with the sea in the background, she is wearing sunglasses and a hat

Photo by: Jose Martinez

Jose Martinez

Even if you’ve heard "you’re glowing!" a million times during your pregnancy, you still need to take care of your skin. Pregnancy and its many side effects can do a real number on your skin — from breakouts, dry skin, dark spots, and more susceptibility to sunburns. Even if your pre-pregnancy skincare was on point, now that you’re pregnant, your normal skincare routine may not be pregnancy-safe. Here are the ingredients you want to avoid during pregnancy:

  • Retinoids
  • Hydroquinone
  • Salicylic acid
  • Benzoyl peroxide

We've rounded up everything you’ll need to keep your skin glowing all summer long.

Sunscreens: If you feel like the sun’s rays are feeling much hotter now that you’re pregnant, you are right. Your skin may be more prone to sunburns while pregnant, so be sure to slather on the sunscreen, but choose one that avoids harsh chemicals.

$19.93

This mineral sunscreen goes on smooth, doesn’t have harsh chemicals, and the brand is a fan favorite of dermatologists. This is also the brand that makes Thinkbaby, which is a highly recommended sunscreen for kids.

Buy It
$34.99

This tinted sunscreen is lightweight and a great option for your face. If you're not a fan of the tint, you can find it without the extra color. It’s fast absorbing and if you are putting makeup on top, it won’t leave a white cast.

Buy It
$34

This brand is well known for using clean ingredients, so it’s safe for pregnant skin and a great option post baby. This lotion goes on smooth and blends well for a day on the beach or the pool or as daily sunscreen for your face.

Buy It

Cleansers: It may be time to ditch your normal cleanser, or at least double-check the ingredient list, because during pregnancy, your skin can change. From feeling extra dry to extra sensitive, you’ll want to choose a pregnancy-safe cleanser that leaves your skin feeling fresh and clean.

$14.99

If you have dry skin, or all of the sudden you have dry skin, grab this bottle of CeraVe, that's trusted by dermatologists for having everything you want in a cleanser and none of the things you don't. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to help hydrate skin without stripping moisture.

Buy It
$28

It’s called a cult classic for a reason. This gel based cleanser is packed with powerful probiotic extracts and skin superfoods for healthy, balanced and glowing skin. This entire line avoids harsh chemicals so your skin feels clean and healthy.

Buy It

Moisturizers: A combination of hormonal changes and continuously stretching skin means that pregnancy can create dry skin. You'll want to have these moisturizers on hand to reduce any uncomfortable dryness.

$19.57

If you need a product to hydrate your skin, make sure it’s packed with hyaluronic acid. Not only will your skin feel moisturized but it will also plump up your skin. The Hydro Boost is a great moisturizer, doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, and it’s budget-friendly.

Buy It
$19.99

Not only does this moisturizer contain a SPF, but it’s effective and gentle on your skin. It’s oil and fragrance free and is great for sensitive skin.

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For breakouts and dark spots: Your hormones are also responsible for increased levels of acne and producing excess melanin, which can cause dark spots.

$12.99

One of the "joys" of pregnancy is the breakouts. To treat those pesky pimples, try the Mighty Patch. These hydrocolloid patches are safe to use and can speed up the healing of blemishes.

Buy It
$10

Since you are avoiding retinoids and salicylic acid during pregnancy, try azelaic acid as a pregnancy safe option for treating breakouts. It’s also a great treatment for dark spots that may pop up during pregnancy.

Buy It
$28.50

Vitamin C is one ingredient that you don’t have to ditch during pregnancy. Add this serum to your daily routine for any hyperpigmentation that's often associated with pregnancy like melasma.

Buy It

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