AHAs, BHAs & Pregnancy: Comprehensive Skincare Safety Guide for Expecting Mothers
Gentle exfoliants and hydrating swaps support healthy skin through hormonal shifts.
AHAs, BHAs & Pregnancy: A Skincare Safety Guide
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it introduces new questions about the safety of beauty routines—particularly chemical exfoliants like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs). This in-depth guide separates skincare myths from facts to help you navigate ingredient labels, make informed decisions, and protect your health and your baby’s wellbeing.
Table of Contents
- Understanding AHAs & BHAs
- Skin Changes During Pregnancy
- Are AHAs Safe During Pregnancy?
- Are BHAs Safe During Pregnancy?
- Other Acids & Chemical Exfoliants
- Recommendations for Safe Use
- Safer Skincare Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- References
Understanding AHAs & BHAs
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are two major classes of chemical exfoliants extensively used in modern skincare for their transformative effects.
| Property | AHAs | BHAs |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the skin’s surface | Oil-soluble acids that penetrate and clean pores |
| Main Types | Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid | Salicylic Acid |
| Main Uses | Brightening, anti-aging, texture smoothing | Acne care, pore-clearing, anti-inflammatory |
| Typical Side Effects | Sun sensitivity, mild irritation with overuse | Dryness, irritation in higher doses |
Both AHAs and BHAs are valued for their capacity to refine skin texture, fade hyperpigmentation, and reduce breakouts. However, the question of safety becomes crucial during pregnancy due to potential absorption and fetal effects.
Skin Changes During Pregnancy
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can trigger dramatic changes to your skin. Common experiences include:
- Acne: Increased oil production may intensify breakouts.
- Hyperpigmentation: Melasma (“mask of pregnancy”) and darkening of areas like the neck or underarms.
- Dryness and Sensitivity: Some women experience drier or easily irritated skin.
- Stretch Marks: Rapid stretching causes striae (tiger stripes) to develop.
These changes lead many pregnant people to seek effective, safe solutions—prompting questions about ingredient safety, especially with commonly used exfoliants.
Are AHAs Safe During Pregnancy?
What Are AHAs?
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are naturally occurring acids derived from fruits, milk, or sugarcane. They include:
- Glycolic Acid: Sourced from sugarcane; smallest molecule for deep penetration.
- Lactic Acid: Derived from milk; gentler, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Mandelic Acid: From bitter almonds, with slightly larger molecules, thus milder action.
AHAs exfoliate by loosening bonds between dead skin cells, leading to softer, brighter skin and reduced hyperpigmentation.
Current Research & Guidelines
- Most dermatologists consider low concentration AHAs safe for topical use during pregnancy when used moderately, due to minimal systemic absorption.
- Glycolic acid at or below 7% and lactic acid at or below 5% are recommended concentration limits for safety.
- Strong AHA peels or high concentrations (such as in-clinic professional treatments) are not advised due to possible increased absorption.
There is no evidence linking topical, low-dose AHA use to congenital anomalies or pregnancy complications, but always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Precautions When Using AHAs
- Pregnant women’s skin can be more sensitive—start with patch tests before regular use.
- AHAs increase photosensitivity. Apply in the evening and use daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
- Monitor for irritation and reduce frequency or cease use if reactions occur.
Are BHAs Safe During Pregnancy?
What Are BHAs?
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble acids particularly effective at unclogging pores and treating acne. Salicylic acid is the most common BHA in skincare.
Safety Profile
- BHA topical salicylic acid is generally considered safe in pregnancy when used as a spot treatment, in low concentrations (≤2%), and not over large areas of the body.
- High-dose or high-concentration salicylic acid peels are not recommended, because systemic absorption could mimic risks associated with aspirin (miscarriage, bleeding, birth defects).
- Willow bark extract, which contains salicylates (but not salicylic acid), is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy, as the conversion to active salicylic acid does not occur in the skin.
Professional Guidelines
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says topical salicylic acid is “safe in all trimesters” when used prudently. Avoid occlusive dressings or large-surface applications.
- Always consult a dermatologist or OB-GYN before starting or continuing BHA products during pregnancy.
Summary Table: AHA vs. BHA in Pregnancy
| Acid Type | Safe in Pregnancy? | Recommended Concentration | Use Guidelines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glycolic Acid (AHA) | Yes (low dose) | ≤7% | Nighttime, SPF with use |
| Lactic Acid (AHA) | Yes (low dose) | ≤5% | Gentler, suitable for sensitive skin |
| Other AHAs | Caution | As recommended by healthcare provider | Start with patch test |
| Salicylic Acid (BHA) | Yes (with restriction) | ≤2% | Spot treat; avoid full-face or peels |
| Willow Bark | Yes | N/A | Safe, does not convert to salicylic acid |
Other Acids & Chemical Exfoliants
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is not an exfoliant but a highly popular hydrating ingredient. It is considered completely safe and can be used liberally during pregnancy with no known risks to the fetus or mother.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is a good alternative for treating acne and hyperpigmentation during pregnancy. Classified as FDA Category B, it shows minimal absorption and no adverse fetal effects in animal and limited human data. Prefer usage on small skin areas, especially in the first trimester.
Retinoic Acid (Retinoids)
Retinoids (retinoic acid, tretinoin), commonly used for acne and anti-aging, are strictly not recommended for use in pregnancy because of teratogenic risk (risk of causing birth defects) proven in both animal and some human studies.
Other Skin Lighteners
Hydroquinone and other strong skin lighteners are best avoided in pregnancy due to higher systemic absorption and insufficient data on safety.
Recommendations for Safe Use of Acids During Pregnancy
- Choose formulas with low concentrations of glycolic or lactic acid (<7% and <5%, respectively).
- Use BHA spot treatments (≤2% salicylic acid) sparingly and avoid large-area or leave-on products.
- Introduce new products one at a time and monitor the skin’s response.
- Apply chemical exfoliants at night to reduce sun sensitivity (AHAs especially).
- Use daily sunscreen (SPF 30+), as skin is more prone to sun damage when using exfoliants.
- Consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before adding or continuing any acids in your routine.
- Avoid all professional-grade peels (chemical, AHA, or BHA) unless explicitly approved by your healthcare provider.
Safer Skincare Alternatives During Pregnancy
- Physical exfoliators: Gentle facial scrubs (avoid harsh granules), konjac sponges, or soft washcloths offer mechanical exfoliation.
- Azelaic acid: Excellent for acne and pigmentation; safe and effective as a chemical alternative.
- Hyaluronic acid: Boosts hydration and plumping without risk.
- Vitamin C: Antioxidant and brightening effects, generally safe in pregnancy.
- Moisturizers: Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free moisturizers support healthy skin barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is glycolic acid safe to use while pregnant?
Yes, in low concentrations (≤7%) and used moderately. Glycolic acid is a commonly recommended AHA for pigmentation and texture, but should be used carefully with sun protection.
Can I use salicylic acid for pregnancy acne?
Small amounts (≤2%) as a spot treatment or wash-off cleanser are considered safe. Large-area or high-dose peels should be strictly avoided.
Are chemical peels safe during pregnancy?
No. Professional-strength chemical peels or high-concentration products are discouraged due to increased risk of systemic absorption.
Can I use lactic acid while pregnant?
Yes, low-concentration lactic acid (≤5%) is considered safe and is a gentle alternative to glycolic acid.
Is it safe to use hyaluronic acid or azelaic acid?
Yes. Both hyaluronic acid and azelaic acid are widely regarded as safe and are beneficial choices for hydration (hyaluronic acid) and pigmentation/acne (azelaic acid).
References
- Dr. Laura Nicholas. “Which Skincare Acids are Safe In Pregnancy?”
- Happiest Baby. “Your Guide to Pregnancy-Safe Skincare.”
- Amala Beauty. “How to Determine if AHA/BHA Is Safe During Pregnancy.”
- Nonie of Beverly Hills. “Is it Safe to Use AHAs During Pregnancy?”
- NCBI. “Safety Profile of Topical Products for Cutaneous Changes in Pregnancy.”
- Edgebrook Dermatology. “Pregnancy & Skincare Safety.”
- NCBI. “Safety of skin care products during pregnancy.”
References
- https://www.drlauranicholas.com/blog/2020/07/16/which-skincare-acids-are-safe-in-pregnancy
- https://www.happiestbaby.com/blogs/pregnancy/pregnancy-safe-skincare
- https://amalabeauty.com/blogs/resources/how-to-determine-if-aha-bha-is-safe-during-pregnancy
- https://nonieofbeverlyhills.com/blogs/blog-posts/is-it-safe-to-use-ahas-during-pregnancy
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8884185/
- https://www.edgebrookdermatology.com/pregnancy-skincare-safety
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3114665/
- https://clarusdermatology.com/pregnancy-safe-skincare/
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