The Best Safe Skincare Products for Pregnancy Acne

 

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, one of which is managing acne. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can trigger acne flare-ups, leaving many expectant mothers frustrated and concerned about the safety of acne treatments. In this blog, we’ll explore how to effectively treat pregnancy acne while ensuring the safety of both mother and baby.

During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased levels of male sex hormones like progesterone, can stimulate the skin’s sebaceous glands, leading to excess oil production. This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells and bacteria, can clog pores and result in acne breakouts. Additionally, hormonal changes can affect the skin’s natural balance, making it more prone to inflammation and sensitivity.

Many traditional acne treatments contain ingredients that may pose risks to the developing fetus, such as retinoids, and high concentrations of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. While these ingredients are effective in treating acne in non-pregnant individuals, their safety during pregnancy is uncertain, and its use is often cautioned if the risks outweigh the benefits. 

The Best Products for Treating Pregnancy Acne

Finding the best skin products for pregnancy acne can feel overwhelming, especially when so many over-the-counter treatments are off-limits. To make things easier, we’ve rounded up top dermatologist-reviewed options that are both safe and effective for expectant skin.

 

The Best Pregnancy Safe Pimple Patches

Avarelle hydrocolloid Pimple Patches ($8.49)  are a gentle, mess-free spot treatment infused with tea tree oil and calendula. Dermatologist-tested and safe for sensitive skin, they’re an ideal option for pregnant women seeking a quick, targeted way to shrink breakouts overnight.

Why it works: Tea tree oil naturally targets acne-causing bacteria, while the hydrocolloid layer draws out excess oil and impurities—minimizing breakouts without causing irritation.

 

The Best Pregnancy Toner Pads Acne Treatment

Neutralyze Acne Wipes ($25.95 for 100 count) combine 2% mandelic acid and 2% salicylic acid to gently exfoliate, clear clogged pores, and treat more stubborn or severe acne—all without over-drying the skin.

Note: Doctors generally consider topical salicylic acid safe up to 2% during pregnancy. For those with moderate to severe acne, it’s best to use under the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist.

Pro tip: If you’re new to acids or dealing with heightened skin sensitivity during pregnancy, start with 2–3 uses per week. For more options, check out our guide to pregnancy safe toner. 

 

Best Product for Butt Acne During Pregnancy

BellamiLuxx Butt Acne Treatment Cream with 2% Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree Oil ($24.99)  is formulated with 2% salicylic acid and tea tree oil to treat body breakouts, folliculitis, and irritation on the buttocks and thighs.

Why it stands out: It’s one of the best products for pregnancy acne  in hard-to-reach areas—especially for women dealing with increased sweat, friction, or oil production during pregnancy.

 

Best Pregnancy-safe Acne Face Wash

Glowbiotics Probiotic Acne Cleanser ($36.00) combines 2% salicylic acid with niacinamide for a gentle, clarifying wash. It removes dirt and oil, reduces redness, and supports the skin’s natural microbiome- an added bonus for maintaining balance during hormonal shifts.

Customer feedback: Customer reviews and before-and-after photos highlight its effectiveness in managing hormonal breakouts without stripping the skin. If you’re looking for one of the best products for pregnancy acne that fits seamlessly into a daily routine, this is a top contender.

Best Topical Acid Serum with Multi-Benefits for Pregnancy Acne

Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid ($19.00) is a multitasking serum that pairs 10% azelaic acid with niacinamide and vitamin C, a powerhouse antioxidant. Azelaic acid works to unclog pores, soothe inflammation, and reduce the appearance of blemishes—making it one of the best products for pregnancy acne. The added vitamin C brightens the complexion, targets dark spots, and helps fade post-acne marks and fine lines. The formular is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and ideal for sensitive pregnancy skin.

These five options represent some of the best products for pregnancy acne, providing safe, effective solutions tailored for pregnant women with mild to moderate breakouts.

What topical acne treatments are safe during pregnancy?

There are a few pregnancy-safe options available to treat acne, including:

• Azelaic acid:Several topical treatments are considered safe for managing acne during pregnancy, with azelaic acid being one of the most trusted options. Naturally derived, azelaic acid helps reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and limit the growth of acne-causing bacteria—all without posing known risks to the developing fetus. It’s often recommended by dermatologists as a first-line treatment for pregnancy acne due to its gentle yet effective nature.
• Topical antibiotics: According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), certain topical antibiotics—like clindamycin—and, in more severe cases, oral antibiotics such as cefadroxil are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy.  These antibiotics work by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. However, it’s essential to use them under the guidance of a dermatologist or healthcare provider to ensure they are used safely and effectively.
• Glycolic acid: Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It works by exfoliating the skin, removing dead skin cells, and unclogging pores. Glycolic acid is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when used in low concentrations (<10%).
• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory that can be effective for managing acne during pregnancy. It helps by targeting acne-causing bacteria and calming inflamed skin. However, it’s important to dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil—such as jojoba or coconut oil—before applying it topically, as using it undiluted can lead to irritation, especially on sensitive or hormonal skin.
• Natural remedies: Some natural remedies, such as aloe vera gel, honey, and oatmeal, may help soothe inflamed skin and reduce acne breakouts during pregnancy. However, it’s essential to use these remedies with caution and consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before trying them as certain undiluted essential oils are cautioned against during pregnancy.

Consulting with a dermatologist or healthcare provider is essential for managing acne during pregnancy. They can assess the severity of your acne and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your individual needs and circumstances. Additionally, they can provide guidance on skincare routines, lifestyle changes, and other strategies to safely help manage and prevent acne flare-ups during pregnancy.

What acne ingredients are not safe during pregnancy?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), certain acne medications should be strictly avoided during pregnancy—including hormonal therapies, isotretinoin, and oral tetracyclines—due to their potential risk to fetal development. If you prefer to err on the side of caution, consider limiting or avoiding the following ingredients in your skincare products:

• Benzoyl peroxide: Generally considered safe in small amounts, but best limited to formulations with 5% or less.
• Salicylic acid: Use with caution and keep concentrations at or below 2%.
• Retinoids: This vitamin A derivative, such as isotretinoin and tretinoin, have been linked to an increased risk of birth defects when used orally or topically in high doses during pregnancy. While topical retinoids generally result in minimal systemic effects, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises against the use of any form of retinoids during pregnancy. 

To determine if the ingredient list of your beauty product contains any of these potentially harmful ingredients, you can use our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker.

Topical Treatments for Hormonal Acne During Pregnancy

When it comes to treating pregnancy acne, safety is the top priority. Many over-the-counter and prescription acne treatments contain ingredients that may be harmful to the developing fetus. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before using any acne treatment during pregnancy. Fortunately, safe and effective options do exist. Topical treatments such as azelaic acid, topical antibiotics, and in some cases, laser therapy may be appropriate—always under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

In addition to these treatments, there are several dermatologist-recommended strategies expectant mothers can use to maintain clear skin throughout pregnancy. According to Mayo clinic  these include:

• Gentle cleanser: Opt for a mild, non-comedogenic face wash and cleanse twice daily. Avoid harsh scrubs or astringents, which can strip your skin’s natural oils and worsen acne. (For product recommendations, check out our blog post on pregnancy-safe cleansers.)
• Shampoo daily: For those prone to developing acne around the hairline, consider shampooing your hair daily as part of your skincare routine. This practice can help minimize the buildup of oils around the hair follicles that may contribute to acne formation in this area.
• Avoid touching the face:  Hands can transfer oil and bacteria to the skin, making acne breakouts worse. Resist the urge to pick at blemishes, which can lead to further inflammation or scarring.Avoid touching or picking at pimples to prevent further inflammation and scarring.
• Support skin from within: Eating a nutrient-rich diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein helps promote skin health from the inside out. Staying hydrated is equally important—aim for 8 to 12 cups of water daily, as recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), to keep your skin moisturized and flush out toxins.

Acne in Pregnancy

 

During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased levels of androgens, can stimulate the skin’s sebaceous glands, leading to excess oil production and acne breakouts. These hormonal changes can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, making it more prone to inflammation and acne flare-ups. Additionally, factors such as stress, diet, and genetics can also play a role in the development of hormonal acne during pregnancy.

Concluding Words: The Best Pregnancy-safe Acne Treatment

 

During early pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations are a key factor in causing pimples. Increased levels of hormones, notably progesterone, stimulate the skin’s sebaceous glands, leading to more oil production and blocked pores. Changes in estrogen levels also affect the skin’s balance, making it more prone to inflammation and breakouts. These hormonal changes typically occur in the first trimester, contributing to early pregnancy acne.

Safe and effective acne treatments during pregnancy prioritize gentle, non-irritating ingredients that calm inflammation and clear clogged pores—without posing any risk to the developing fetus. Pregnancy-safe options include azelaic acid and glycolic acid, known for their efficacy and safety for treating acne during pregnancy.

Simple lifestyle habits can go a long way in minimizing early pregnancy breakouts. Start with a gentle skincare routine—wash your face twice daily using a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil and buildup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. Steer clear of heavy or greasy skincare products, and instead, choose lightweight, oil-free moisturizers to help maintain balanced hydration and prevent clogged pores.

 

Sources:

Skin Conditions During Pregnancy | ACOG

Treatment of Acne Vulgaris During Pregnancy and Lactation | Dermatology and Therapy (NCBI)

Major malformations after first-trimester exposure to aspirin and NSAIDs | The University of York

Is salicylic acid safe to use during pregnancy? | Medical News Today

Safety of skin care products during pregnancy | The Collee of Family Physicians of Canada

RETINOID OR RETINOL? | AAD

What’s the best way to treat pregnancy acne? | Mayo Clinic

How to Spot-Treat a Pimple When Pregnant According to Dermatologists | Very Well Family