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4 Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy (Doctor-Backed) & What Hizo Uses Instead

4 Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy (Doctor-Backed) & What Hizo Uses Instead

by Hizo Skincare in The Hizo Edit

Pregnancy changes everything, including how you think about what goes on your skin.

For me, it started with one ingredient: retinol. When I was pregnant with my daughter Zoa, my OB told me I couldn’t use it. That one moment led to a much bigger question: What else should I be avoiding?

Turns out, kind of a lot. After endless deep dives into ingredient lists, conflicting information, and honestly, a lot of unnecessary stress, I wished all the information about pregnancy safe skincare ingredients was in one place.

This is a clear, doctor-informed look at skincare ingredients to be mindful of during pregnancy and just as importantly, what Hizo uses instead to deliver real results without compromise.

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A Quick Note Before We Start

Pregnancy-safe skincare isn’t about fear, it’s about being thoughtful.

A pregnancy focused skincare routine isn't all-or-nothing. Some ingredients are big red flags, some are 'maybe' depending on the dose, and plenty of others are perfectly safe.

The goal is clarity, not restriction.

Ingredients Commonly Avoided During Pregnancy:

1. Retinoids (Vitamin A Derivatives)

Includes:

  • Retinol

  • Retinal

  • Retinyl esters

  • Prescription retinoids

These are widely recommended to be avoided during pregnancy due to their association with potential developmental risks.

What We Use Instead

At Hizo, we take a multi-path approach to anti-aging and skin renewal, without relying on vitamin A derivatives like retinol:

  • Bakuchiol→ A plant-based retinol alternative that helps support smoother, firmer-looking skin

  • Niacinamide → Helps improve the appearance of tone, fine lines, and overall skin clarity

  • Low-dose Glycolic Acid → Supports gentle cell turnover and smoother texture

Instead of one aggressive ingredient, we layer gentler, clinically supported actives to achieve visible results.

2. High-Strength Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used ingredients for blemish-prone skin. While low concentrations in topical skincare are generally considered compatible with pregnancy by many dermatologists and OB-GYNs, higher concentrations (over 2%), particularly professional peels and intensive leave-on treatment, are widely considered best to avoid during pregnancy.

Our Approach

Rather than relying on high levels of a single exfoliating ingredient, we take a balanced approach. We use a low concentration of salicylic acid (0.5%) and pair it with other carefully selected ingredients to help support clearer-looking skin while respecting the skin barrier.

0.5% Salicylic Acid → Helps keep pores clear and gently exfoliates the skin's surface

Azelaic Acid → Helps reduce the appearance of blemishes and supports a more even-looking complexion

Gluconolactone (PHA) → A gentle exfoliant that smooths and brightens while helping maintain hydration

Niacinamide + Zinc PCA → Help balance excess oil and minimize the appearance of pores

By combining multiple complementary ingredients, we're able to deliver effective pore and blemish support without relying on aggressive concentrations that can increase irritation. The result is a thoughtful, pregnancy-conscious approach designed to keep skin looking clear, balanced, and healthy.

3. Hydroquinone

Often used for dark spots and hyperpigmentation, this has a higher absorption rate compared to many topical ingredients, so it should be avoided during pregnancy.

What We Use Instead

Hyperpigmentation and melasma are some of the most common pregnancy skin concerns, so we took this seriously.

Our approach combines multiple pigment-supporting ingredients:

  • Azelaic Acid → Helps improve the appearance of uneven tone

  • Niacinamide → Brightens and supports overall skin clarity

  • THD Ascorbate (Vitamin C) → A stable, gentle form of vitamin C that enhances radiance

Instead of one harsh brightening agent, we use a layered, synergistic approach for more balanced results.

4. Harsh or Overly Aggressive Actives

Pregnancy can make skin more sensitive and reactive therefore overly strong treatments / AHAs such as lactic acid or glycolic acid at heavy concentrations (~10–20%) can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to irritation. Also, there are fragrances, preservatives, and non-actives that can range from irritating to risky during pregnancy.

What We Use Instead

We prioritize a barrier-first approach:

  • Ceramide NP → Helps support and strengthen the skin barrier

  • Niacinamide → Reinforces skin resilience while improving tone

  • Gentle exfoliants (PHA + low-dose AHA) → Support renewal without compromising sensitivity

Because healthy skin starts with a strong, balanced foundation.

How We Formulate at Hizo

Every Hizo formula is built with pregnancy in mind from day one, not adjusted after the fact.

  • We carefully vet every ingredient.

  • We formulate at intentional, effective levels.

  • We work alongside dermatologists (many of whom are moms.)

  • And we prioritize both safety and visible results. We don’t believe you should have to choose between the two.

You don't have to overthink this. (That's our job.)

If you’ve ever stood in front of your skincare products wondering “is this safe?”, you’re not alone. I created Hizo because I was in that exact position. More specifically I asked myself:

What skincare ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy?
Retinoids, hydroquinone, and high-strength salicylic acid (over 2%) are commonly avoided due to irritation and absorption concerns.

Is it possible to treat melasma without hydroquinone?
Yes. A combination of ingredients such as azelaic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C can help improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation.

What can I use instead of retinol during pregnancy?
Formulations that include bakuchiol, niacinamide, and gentle exfoliating acids can support smoother, more refined-looking skin.

Can I manage acne during pregnancy without harsh treatments?
Yes. Balanced systems using azelaic acid, niacinamide, zinc PCA, and gentle exfoliants can help reduce the appearance of breakouts while supporting the skin barrier.

How should I approach skincare during pregnancy?
Focus on a simple, consistent routine built around gentle cleansing, targeted treatment, and barrier support.

In a nutshell, we’ve done the research, worked with experts, and built these formulas so you don’t have to second guess every ingredient. So you can focus on yourself, your baby, and feeling good in your skin during this phase of life.

We've got you, mama!

~Crystal Osejo
(Founder)

 

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Pregnancy brings a wave of changes, some expected, others less obvious. Most of us know to avoid alcohol and raw meats. But at that first doctor appointment, many women are surprised to learn that their skincare routine may need a second look. It isn’t always easy to figure out which products are safe and which should be avoided - which is why we created Hizo, so you don’t have to do all that research yourself. But many of your current skincare products may already be safe, so we created this guide to help cut through some of the confusion and help you can feel confident, safe, and stress-free about the products you’re using during this important time. And like all Hizo formulations, this post has been reviewed by Hizo’s medical advisory group – a board certified team of OG-BYNs and Dermatologists - so you can feel confident with the information provided. 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Chemical Sunscreens – Chemical filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate are common in many everyday sunscreens. They work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat to protect the skin. The problem is these chemicals are absorbed by the blood stream and can disrupt hormones during pregnancy. Because pregnancy is a time of extra caution, dermatologists and OBs recommend avoiding chemical sunscreens. Hair, Nail, and Cosmetic Ingredients While Hizo doesn’t currently focus on hair, nails, or cosmetic products, just like skincare, certain ingredients in beauty and personal care products are worth a second look during pregnancy. In particular, formaldehyde (and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives), toluene, and phthalates are often found in nail products and hair treatments and are best avoided due to potential health risks. Strong chemical hair dyes or ammonia-based treatments may also cause irritation or sensitivity, even if not proven unsafe. The dihydroxyacetone in spray tans can be risky because of inhalation during the process. Many doctors also advise expectant mothers to limit chemical straighteners or keratin treatments, which can release fumes that aren’t ideal to breathe in while pregnant. When in doubt, switching to gentler, fragrance-free, or mineral-based options can help reduce both stress and exposure. Fragrance and Essential Oils High-Dose Essential Oils – In concentrated, high-dose forms, some essential oils can be problematic during pregnancy. Some oils to look out for include clary sage, rosemary, sage, pennyroyal, camphor, wintergreen, tea tree, and jasmine. Ingesting essential oils is never advised in pregnancy, and undiluted topical use can trigger irritation. Hizo does use low doses of lavender, grapefruit, and orange essential oils in our stretch cream but these are not considered risky essential oils during pregnancy. Synthetic Fragrance – Fragrance can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, and pregnancy can make skin more sensitive than usual. Many synthetic fragrances also contain phthalates, chemicals sometimes linked to hormone disruption and not always even listed on the labels. Because you can’t always know exactly what’s in a “fragrance” blend, and because irritation risk is higher during pregnancy, many experts recommend avoiding synthetic fragrances. Hizo formulations are either fragrance free or naturally scented with organic fragrance. Safe & Effective Alternatives Rather than go through every pregnancy safe ingredient, we think it may be most helpful to list the issue you may be trying to treat and some pregnancy safe alternatives. Remember, just because a product includes a safe ingredient does not mean that it has excluded all dangerous ingredients. So you should always check all ingredients before using any product. Acne Pregnancy-safe swaps for common acne treatments (like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, high-dose salicylic acid, dapsone): Azelaic Acid – reduces acne-causing bacteria, unclogs pores, and fades post-acne marks. Niacinamide – calms redness, regulates oil production, and strengthens skin barrier. Low-Dose Glycolic or Lactic Acid – gentle exfoliation to keep pores clear. Topical Clindamycin (Rx) – safe antibiotic option if prescribed by a doctor. Melasma (Hyperpigmentation / “Mask of Pregnancy”) Since hydroquinone, retinoids, and chemical sunscreens are off-limits: Strict Sun Protection – daily mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Azelaic Acid – brightens pigment safely and helps prevent darkening. Niacinamide – reduces pigment transfer in skin, lightens spots gradually. Vitamin C – antioxidant support for brighter skin tone. The best thing to do for melasma is to prevent sun exposure, so make sure you’re using a mineral sunscreen. Anti-Aging (Fine Lines, Texture, Radiance) Instead of retinoids, heavy acids, or high-strength chemical peels: Bakuchiol – a plant-based retinol alternative, gentle and safe. Peptides (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Hexapeptides) – support skin firmness and smoothness. Niacinamide – improves tone, texture, and barrier function. Vitamin C – boosts radiance and collagen production. Gentle AHAs (like lactic acid) – mild exfoliation for glow. Dry Skin / Barrier Repair Safe options for replenishing moisture and soothing irritation: Hyaluronic Acid / Sodium Hyaluronate – hydrates deeply. Ceramides – rebuild and strengthen the skin barrier. Colloidal Oatmeal / Oat Extract – calms itchiness and dryness.Shea Butter, Squalane, Plant Oils (like Marula, Jojoba, Grapeseed) – rich emollients for lasting moisture. Panthenol & Allantoin – soothing, barrier-supporting ingredients. Stretch Marks No ingredient can guarantee prevention, but safe options support elasticity and comfort: Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Mango Butter – rich moisturizers to keep skin supple. Oils like Rosehip, Almond, Grapeseed, or Marula – help maintain elasticity. Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica) – supports collagen and skin strength. Hyaluronic Acid – keeps skin plump and hydrated, which may reduce severity. Sensitive / Itchy Skin Pregnancy can make skin more reactive and prone to irritation. Harsh actives and fragrances are best avoided; instead, reach for calming and barrier-supporting ingredients. Colloidal Oatmeal / Oat Extract – soothes itching and irritation. Aloe Vera – lightweight, cooling relief. Chamomile & Centella Asiatica (Cica) – reduce redness and calm sensitive skin. Panthenol & Allantoin – gentle hydrators that repair the barrier. Fragrance-Free Formulas – reduce risk of flare-ups. Sun Protection (Photosensitivity / Melasma Prevention) Pregnancy hormones can make skin more sun-sensitive and more prone to melasma, so daily sunscreen is essential. Mineral Sunscreens (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide) – safest UV filters, sit on top of skin and aren’t absorbed. Tinted Mineral Sunscreens – add protection against visible light, which can worsen pigmentation. Niacinamide + Vitamin C – support even tone alongside SPF. Physical Protection – hats, shade, and avoiding peak sun hours. Eczema / Dermatitis Flares Some women notice eczema worsening in pregnancy, or new patches of irritated skin. Strong steroid creams should be avoided unless prescribed, but safe relief options exist. Ceramides – strengthen and repair the skin barrier. Colloidal Oatmeal / Oat Extract – reduces itching and inflammation. Shea Butter, Squalane, Plant Oils – rich emollients for barrier repair. Fragrance-Free Moisturizers – reduce triggers for flare-ups. Skincare While Breastfeeding Using the same skincare routine you created during pregnancy is a great place to start as a safe baseline while breastfeeding. However, most topical treatments have low enough absorption rates into breastmilk that they can be reintroduced on a case-by-case basis. The shift in safety focus is from fetal exposure to contact transfer—what might rub off on your baby during feeds or cuddles. Prioritize gentle, fragrance-free products on areas your newborn will touch (face, neck, chest, arms), let any application of potentially harsher acids or chemicals fully dry before picking up your baby, and keep anything medicated away from the nipple/areola. In addition, you’ll want to continue to avoid most oral or injectible treatments for skin until after you’re done with nursing. Ingredients From Pregnancy Anything you were safely using during pregnancy, you can continue to use while nursing: azelaic acid, glycolic/lactic acids (AHAs), ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acids, and mineral sunscreen. They have minimal systemic absorption and are well tolerated in lactation. However, you’re going to want to make sure you’re not applying these to your chest and areolas so that your baby doesn’t accidentally ingest any. And when applying to your face, make sure to let the application fully dry and wash your hands before picking up your new born. The risk postpartum is less about what your baby will get from your breastmilk and more about what may transfer skin to skin. Ingredients You May (Re)introduce Postpartum You may consider adding back ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, high-dose salicylic acid, topical antibiotics, and chemical sunscreens while breastfeeding. Use them mainly on the face and keep leave-ons away from areas your baby will touch. To be extra cautious, use these ingredients in moderation, like for spot treatments versus part of your daily routine. Ingredients to Be Cautious About Topical retinoids are dangerous during pregnancy but are considered much lower risk postpartum and while breastfeeding. Still, they are a harsh skincare treatment that can be very irritating to your new born if there is any retinoid that touches your baby’s skin. If you choose to reintroduce retinoids while breastfeeding, make sure to avoid application on our near your chest, only use the retinoid at night after the last feed, and let any product fully absorb before bed. Some parents prefer to pause retinoids until after your newborn is sleeping through the night to further reduce the risk of exposure. That’s a reasonable, extra-cautious choice. Ingredients to Avoid Through Nursing There are some ingredients that are worth avoiding until your baby is done nursing. Some of these are known to be harmful, but many just don’t have enough research done and so in an abundance of caution physicians recommend waiting. Skip oral retinoids (isotretinoin, acitretin, alitretinoin) because they enter milk and aren’t compatible with nursing. Avoid topical tazarotene, the strongest topical retinoid. Steer clear of topical dapsone (Aczone) due to limited data and a rare infant hemolysis risk, and avoid hydroquinone given higher absorption with sparse lactation data. Don’t use high-dose salicylate rubs (methyl salicylate/wintergreen) or camphor-heavy balms—especially on the neck or chest—because of toxicity/irritation if a baby contacts or licks the skin. Lastly, defer deep or medium chemical peels (phenol, high-strength TCA, Jessner) until after breastfeeding due to greater systemic exposure. As a simple rule: if a product is potent, medicated, or could be harmful if licked, don’t use it—particularly anywhere your baby’s face or mouth might touch. Practical Contact-Transfer Tips Your baby will often be tucked against your face and torso, so reserve anything “harsher” (strong acids, leave-on salicylates, retinoids, spot treatments) for your night routine after the last feed, give products time to dry, and avoid the chest entirely. If any medicated cream is prescribed for the breast, use a water-miscible product and wipe off visible residue before feeds. Going fragrance-free where baby makes contact can reduce irritation for both of you. Myths & Marketing Claims Here are some common myths, marketing claims and misconceptions around skincare while pregnant. The list of marketing claims and myths go on and on, so if you have one you think should be added to this list, let us know. “You have to overhaul your entire routine.” The truth is that many staples are fine, but you should research all the ingredients on any product you are using. Just because it includes safe active ingredients doesn’t necessarily mean it excludes all risky ingredients. “All acids are unsafe during pregnancy.”Azelaic acid and moderate use of glycolic and lactic acids are generally acceptable. “Mineral sunscreen nanoparticles are risky.”Current evidence supports their safety on intact skin, but it is best to choose a non-spray lotions because the sprays can risk accidental inhalation of the particles. Mineral sunscreen is considered a great alternative to chemical sunscreens. “OTC retinol is mild, so it’s okay.”This is important – avoid all retinol during pregnancy. Even low concentration OTC retinol can be risky to your baby. “Natural/organic = safe.”This is not necessarily true. Some essential oils can be harmful and many others can be irritating, especially while pregnant. Further more, some brands may call hydroquinone relatives, kojic acid, and animal derived retinols “natural” or “organic” and these are not considered safe while pregnant. “Fragrance-free and unscented mean the same thing.”Unscented can still contain masking fragrances; fragrance-free is the stricter label. If you are experiencing irritation, look for fragrance free. “Breastfeeding has the exact same rules as pregnancy.”While there is some overlap, your skincare routine has more options while nursing.  The safety emphasis shifts to contact transfer (what baby’s skin/mouth can touch). “You must ‘detox’ from sunscreen/makeup while pregnant.”There is no medical basis for this claim. Daily SPF is one of the best things you can do for skin health, just find a non-spray mineral sunscreen. “Patch testing isn’t necessary if you used it before.”Hormonal shifts may lead to new sensitivities and so it is best to patch test all products when you find out your pregnant and introduce one at a time. Safety Notes & When to See a Doctor This guide is educational and while reviewed by our advisory board of doctors, every individual is different and every pregnancy is different. Nothing can replace personalized care with your OBGYN and dermatologist. Talk to your doctor before starting prescription treatments, strong peels, or if you’re considering reintroducing actives you avoided during pregnancy (e.g., retinoids). Share your full medication list—including supplements and fertility or postpartum meds—to check for interactions or lactation considerations. If you have chronic skin conditions (acne, eczema, psoriasis, melasma), ask your clinician for a pregnancy/breastfeeding-specific plan that covers safer alternatives, application sites to avoid, and what to do during flares. Seek care promptly if you notice any of the following: rapidly spreading rash; hives with swelling of lips/eyes/throat; painful blisters; signs of infection (pus, warmth, fever); sudden severe itching of palms/soles; new or changing moles; or any reaction that worsens after you stop the product. If you’re breastfeeding, also call your pediatrician if your baby develops facial or body rash after routine skin-to-skin, or if they lick/touch an area recently treated with a medicated product. Hizo wants to empower you with information, education, and pregnancy safe formulations to take the stress out of skincare during pregnancy. But we aren’t a replacement for your doctor – so always talk to them. tl;dr You have a lot of skincare options while pregnant, but you need to review all the ingredients. If you want something that uses only ingredients considered safe while pregnant and with formulations that are reviewed by board certified dermatologists and OBGYNs, try Hizo’s line of products, launching soon. We know this is a lot of information all in one place. But our site is full of more specific information about every question you may have about skincare during pregnancy. The Hizo Edit is full of concise, dermatologist- and OB-reviewed tips tailored to pregnancy and breastfeeding, plus practical routines, ingredient explainers, and early access to new launches. No spam—just clear guidance you can use the same day.  

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How We Formulate for Pregnancy Safety

How We Formulate for Pregnancy Safety

Our Philosophy At Hizo, our approach is simple: thoughtful, intentional formulations that prioritize both safety and results. We’re not here to blindly strip away options and leave you with products that don’t work. And we’re not here to offer aggressive actives that don’t align with pregnancy. We’ve done the work with chemists, doctors, and clinical reviews to create formulations where real safety meets real, visible results. How We Formulate Every Hizo formula is built from the ground up with pregnancy in mind, not adjusted after the fact. Here’s how we approach it: 1. Ingredient-by-Ingredient Vetting Every ingredient is carefully reviewed individually and within formulation with pregnancy in mind.  We don’t just review the actives like some “gentle” brands. We look at all of the ingredients including the stabilizers, preservatives, and fragrances. 2. Dermatologist-Led Development We created a medical advisory board with doctors who aren’t just paid for a testimonial and a review. They actually helped develop our formulations. They are real members of the Hizo team working to create the best formulations for moms. These are women who understand the unique skin changes that come with pregnancy and postpartum. 3. Proper Dosing Matters It’s not just what we use, it’s how much. Every ingredient is used at levels that are both effective and pregnancy-appropriate. We carefully balance performance and gentleness, so you can feel confident your skincare is not only safe, but truly delivering results. 4. Targeted, Gentle Efficacy Pregnancy can bring real skin concerns such as melasma, breakouts, sensitivity, dryness. Our formulas are designed to support the unique skin changes that come from pregnancy without relying on harsh or aggressive actives. 5. Barrier-First Approach Healthy skin starts with a strong barrier. We prioritize hydration, balance, and skin resilience as the foundation of every formula. 6. Transparency Always We believe you deserve to know what you’re putting on your skin and why. No confusion, no guesswork. We are building out a comprehensive ingredient page (with links to the FDA and NIH’s recommendations) where you can easily do your own deep dives on every ingredient in every one of our products. All in one convenient place. What We Choose Not to Use Rather than creating fear, we focus on clarity. There are certain ingredients we choose not to include during pregnancy based on current guidance and our formulation philosophy. Instead of pushing boundaries, we prioritize peace of mind. For information on the key ingredients to avoid, check out this article.  What We Prioritize Ingredients with strong safety profiles Doctor supported actives Gentle but effective, clinically-proven results Formulas that support real pregnancy skin concerns Built So You Don’t Have to Overthink It Hizo (named after my daughter, Hi Zo!) was created to solve a problem I experienced firsthand. Pregnancy is already filled with unknowns. Your skincare routine shouldn’t add to that stress. We’ve done that work for you, so you can focus on what actually matters: taking care of yourself and your baby. You deserve skincare that feels safe, effective, and effortless during this phase of life. We’ve got you, mama!   ~Crystal Osejo Founder    

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