Dermatologist Shares Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy & Ones to Try! | Dr. Sam Ellis

Benzoyl peroxide? Salicylic acid? When you're pregnant or trying to conceive, you have to make a lot of changes to your lifestyle and that includes your skincare routine. In this video, I share what skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy and what skincare ingredients can be really helpful!
MORE PREGNANCY VIDEOS:
What I Eat in a Day While Pregnant: • What I Eat in a Day Wh...
Pregnancy-Approved Nighttime Skincare Routine: • My Nighttime Skincare ...
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
00:54 Pregnancy Skincare
02:04 Benzoyl Peroxide
03:44 Salicylic Acid
05:45 Chemical Sunscreen
08:20 Alpha Hydroxy Acids
09:47 Irregular Pigmentation
12:10 Aluminum Antiperspirants/Deodorant
12:44 Self Tanner
13:25 Sulfur & Azelaic Acid
14:44 Ingredients to Avoid
16:01 Subscribe!
DISCLAIMER: The information in this video is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician. Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links (marked with *). I'm part of NATURIUM's medical advisory board. Affiliate links help support my KZbin channel so I can continue to create fun, informational skincare videos for you. Also, some products may have been received as PR. Thanks for watching!

[@Joelina456]

I´m not pregnant but I still found this video super helpful because it kind of gives me a sense of how "harmless" one product is compared to another and that can be useful no matter if you are growing a human or not 😀 "danke" from Germany!

[@a2d3]

Congratulations, Dr. Ellis! I can't believe you're already back to posting videos so soon after having a baby. You are too good to us. 🥺

[@sofiadiniz1372]

Another not pregnant and with no plans to be, but i really found this very interesting! we always listening about not use retinol but never about all the other ingredients! good job!!

[@vasudhaharish3651]

love the lighting!!! makes your eyes pop

[@aab24209]

This is the video I was hoping for! I'll probably wait until PP/breastfeeding to go back to using UV clear but avoiding all chemical SPF isn't always easy. Though there are a lot of great mineral only options I love too. Just nice to hear the rationale behind what made you comfortable with it 😃 My fav products during pregnancy: Paula's choice BHA liquid, their defense serum, and their vit c, Naturium azelaic acid, drmtlgy's eye cream and needleless serum, CeraVe skin renewing night cream, EltaMD UV pure, colorscience's OG SPF, super goop sheer screen, vanicream daily moisturizer... Probably more, but that covers the top spots I think lol.

[@laurellae]

Pregnancy freaked my skin out like no other and that is what lead me to discovering the online skincare community. I used the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser and Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream in my final weeks and those two really helped calm my excessive oiliness and soothe my extremely broken out skin. I didn't have a sunscreen at the time, its taken me months to find ones I like. My current favorite is the Black Girl Sunscreen Kids SPF 50, and if I ever go through pregnancy again, I would continue using a chemic spf and feel safe doing so. I just haven't had good luck with mineral spfs, especially being a medium skin tone.

[@rachelwhite1702]

Such a helpful video, thank you! It answered a question I’d been confused about - using retinoids while TTC (as opposed to during pregnancy itself when it’s obviously a no). I’ve been trying to get pregnant for almost 2 years and struggling with my acne without a retinoid in my routine, but will stick to the BHA and azelaic acid!

[@roxybes]

Awesome video, thank you for the information!

[@Kellykellykellyboo]

Mandelic acid has been really great for managing my hormonal acne and clearing up scarring

[@nataloushka12]

Great video . Thank you . During pregnancy which products can replace retinol ?

[@kaziislam9365]

I appreciate this so much as I am pregnant for the first time with a boy as well

[@angelinegeronimohobbs6652]

Thanks so much for this awesome video, Dr. Ellis!!! How do you feel about using urea cream/lotion while pregnant or nursing? Between glycolic acid, lactic acid and urea, which ingredient would you recommend using for KP while pregnant or nursing?

[@PerfectlyxSplendid]

Thank you for being clear and concise. Also I am LOVING Prequel

[@DrSamEllis]

Aw thank you! So happy you’re enjoying Prequel too 😊

[@lifee2576]

Hello, great video ! 😊 Does phenoxyethanol should be avoid during a pregnancy ? Thanks in advance !

[@ashleybowen558]

Hello. I just discovered your channel, and love the information it provides. I am currently pregnant and was wondering if you could make a video about Bakuchiol during pregnancy.

[@MakeupandMentalHealth]

Thank you for mentioning sunscreen and the fact that some people just don’t like mineral sunscreens. It is nice to hear someone not shame chemical sunscreen for a change. Plus some people are also sensitive to zinc based skincare.

[@leetep1]

Hi Dr. Sam, thank you for your content! I am using Biafine triethanolamine for a while as a night-time moisturizer (it's the only thing that doesn't irritate my eyes), is that safe to use during pregnancy?

[@talk2bink]

+Dr. Sam Ellis can do you PLEASE do a follow up video of safe skin care procedures while breastfeeding (e.g. morpheus (with numbing), botox, filler, emface, scuptra, etc).

[@tubonimiwaquong3233]

Hi Dr. Ellis! Great video. Please is it safe to use a face cream that has a low percentage of retinol or it should be avoided completely? Pls I need your help on this. Thank you in advance 🙏🏼

[@tatsiananekrashevich6676]

This is so helpful! Thank you!

[@annemariehartsock9469]

Thank you for this video!!❤

[@binary964]

not even planning to get pregnant (maybe ever) but good to know what to take off the shelf if i ever did namely tretinoin, HQ, and rogaine as i'm using all three of them

[@thebeauty_minimalist]

Not pregnant but just a skincare nerd over here 🤓 great video and you look amazing Dr Ellis 💜💜

[@kavyaraveendran697]

Great video, thank you very much. Is it safe to use topical 30 % (eucerin roughness relief spot corrector) urea when breastfeeding?

[@sarahb6321]

Thank you! My Derm told me to stop benzoyl peroxide wash in pregnancy because it hadn’t been tested. But my skin blows up with horrible scarring acne without it. Lo and behold my skin is now blowing up since I haven’t used my BPO wash for 3 weeks. I’m going back to it today.

[@actualwakandangirl7121]

I was so afraid of using benzoyl peroxide so I used azelaic acid since that’s all I was told was safe. Well, azelaic acid is itchy even when I mix it with moisturizer, it also didn’t do much. Going back to benzoyl peroxide.

[@anitamiko9975]

Thanks for this. I have 2 questions: I heard retinol/yl palmitate is not a true retinoids and may be ok during pregnancy. Also, can some retinoids be used while breastfeeding? I’m so eager to get back to my usual skincare routine but also want to breastfeed as long as I can.

[@shanilkadsituge8404]

Which product is the safest for cerave cleanser and cetaphil cleanser?

[@user-wy3cq2qq2v]

This was SO helpful and realistic. Thank you. Side note: willow bark in a peel pad. I know it’s only considered salicylic acid when ingested.. so it’s ok? It’s the gentle peel pads by dr Dennis gross. The blue ones. ❤

[@i_am_absolute2974]

Hi Doctor, thanl you so much for this video, so helpful. I am 5 months (20w) pregnant and is having worsening face and neck darkening,I am sorry if you already addressed this somewhere else but is that brand Topicals Faded serum safe to use? T.I.A.!

[@Butterfieldowl]

I find those exfoliating mitts, I use before a shave 2-3x a week, and the ordinary brand glycolic 7% toner 2x a week,, have been the most effective for leg ingrown hairs. Loose clothing when possible too.

[@estancia3857]

So happy I feel better about using self tanner now! ☺️

[@MrMak2121]

I never understood the fear of chemical sunscreen. Maybe because I have hyperhidrosis but the mineral sunscreens burn. Those don’t go well with my skin. I really like the LR-P spf 100 Hey Dr Sam, are the creams for the body for hyperhidrosis, are they ok to use on the face? Love you Dr Sam!!!!

[@informedbeauty]

What's your take on skin products containing urea in pregnancy?

[@kat.699]

May I please ask you if you would consider siloxanes (silicone scar cream) safe during pregnancy?

[@emilybeaudry2366]

Great video thanks!! What do you think of mandalic acid and Bakuchiol during pregnancy?

[@samanthademi4092]

She uses it in her nighttime routine during pregnancy video :)

[@marinamoufid6078]

What about niacinamide Dr. Sam? Is a product such as the good molecules 10% niacinamide serum safe during pregnancy?

[@belucky3533]

can you please help me whether Alpha arbutin and tranexamic acid be used during pregnancy

[@deeelisa1890]

Hi, subscriber here! Can you make a video on what you recommend and/or use on your baby like diaper cream, etc.?

[@s0yunagataaa]

Id love to see this also. Baby products approved by a derm! 🥰

[@reikimasterkari5251]

Yes I would enjoy this as well. Thanks!

[@jademarie1995]

Thank you so so much! Also not pregnant but very interesting!!! Adore azealic acid so good to know x

[@Kl-gz4ng]

Hi. What shampoo you recommend ?

[@Gianina451]

do I need Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10% if I don't have acne during pregnancy. I'm using vitamin C in the morning from biossance, so not sure if I need to add this from Naturium. Thanks!

[@parissa1083]

I used the La Roche Posay Effeclar duo, I’m just on my first month of pregnancy. Was that okay or should I be worried?

[@Buttercuprincesa]

What about the cerave night renewing cream with peptides? Is this safe?

[@animallover17101]

Please doctor, what about the hair spray vichy dercos densi- solutions, is it safe for pregnancy?

[@phoebe2643]

Hi there, I am 5 months pregnant was sold a moisturiser that has BRIGHTENING INGREDIENTS: NIACINAMIDE, OCTADECENEDIOIC ACID AND RUMEX OCCIDENTALIS EXTRACT. I am wondering if the octadecendioic acid and rumex occidentalis extract are safe during pregnancy (mostly if it is highly absorbed or not like other skin lighting ingredients you have to avoid). Kind regards

[@nancyliang6937]

Does anyone know if the iS Cleansing complex is safe to use?

[@thewandies]

Thank you thank you! for the sunscreen info! I am not pregnant but trying to (well maybe..), anyway I cant find any mineral sunscreen that I really like and want to apply regularly 😫.

[@yelitzarodriguez-castillo3187]

Try Dr. V’s Inzincable

[@anntsa1]

I have patients who ask about the safety of rose hip oil. Given the concentration of vitamin A, does anyone know of a reference re safety data in pregnancy?

[@Duxbury_Skin]

Is it safe to use retinoid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid safe to use during breastfeeding?

[@taniy.5369]

Its the glow recipe watermelon glow niacinamide dew drops safe during pregnancy?

[@Silan183]

Pls what about retinyl palmitate which are in virtually all tree hut scrubs? Is it safe pls?

[@jessicavincentlim]

Can you use Mario Badescu drying lotion while pregnant?

[@NEECOLECHAN]

Hello! I was wondering if succinic acid is considered safe during pregnancy?

[@vitajanas]

Omg, I needed this video so much, thank you! Currently 9 weeks pregnant with my first 🥰 and was worried about many ingredients. After this video I will go back to using normal deodorant, because “natural” ones suck and will peacefully use my Cerave salicylic acid cleanser. I’ve got a question though - can I use moisturizer with 10% urea? It’s the only one ingredient that really helps my keratosis pilaris on my thighs, but pharmacist warned me about it during pregnancy. What’s your take on this?

[@ishwaribaraskar4793]

Is butylene glycol in skincare product safe during pregnancy?

[@reikimasterkari5251]

Is Vegamour Hair Gro Serum safe to use while pregnant or breast feeding? When I search it, I get mixed messages. Thanks!

[@brookie6699]

Not pregnant but I found this video super helpful😍

[@shaale8732]

Hi doctor is it safe to use face products with fragrance when pregnant ?

[@kaziislam9365]

Is this also applicable while breastfeeding or are there more ingredients to avoid?

[@suasua6423]

What about octinoxate and oxybenzone containing lip balm during third trimester pregnancy? Please reply me..I am worried because I am using since 1 month back on my third trimester

[@daniellasolis4079]

What are your thoughts on drunk elephants ceramide AF eye cream?

[@jennyh8331]

Thank you so much Dr. Sam Ellis! I do have one question which I'm assuming is yes but still would like your input. Is ferulic acid safe during pregnancy? I know it's used in a lot of vitamin C formulations. I'm pregnant with baby #2 and though I do consult with my own doctor regarding skincare ingredients, I highly value your videos on this topic. Because of you I used Adapalene during breastfeeding and my skin thanked me for it. Love you content and hope your babe is doing well!❤️

[@nandini4154]

@DrSamEllis can i use vitamin e face wash while i am pregnant

[@lindseyd7026]

What about TNS Advanced Serum+ by SkinMedica?

[@manalnemo]

Hi dr. Ellis, what about peptides? I really love the Paula's Choice peptide booster.

[@DrSamEllis]

Not something I’d be worried about!

[@manalnemo]

@@DrSamEllis thank you!

[@alisascupoftea9687]

Thanks! How about hair removal creams? I read that it’s not recommended, but I used it during my pregnancy…

[@DrSamEllis]

Each company makes their own statement on this/their product. Something like Nair is 👍🏼

[@cookwithme1698]

Hey thanks for your videos, is numbing cream safe to use in the bikini ( to wax) area during pregnancy my dr said that should be fine but I’m still not sure

[@BL-dt7rw]

Thank you, I am somehow relieved. I used sulfur soap for 3 weeks. It is the only thing which helped with the itching of my tummy and in between my breasts. I have read some people say to avoid it and was worried. I used the Dr. Kaufmann's.

[@ashwanikumar6055]

Thank you so much mam

[@ich737]

So would you say that using the azelaic acid cream Skinoren 20% is fine during all stages of pregnancy? ☺️

[@elizaerchel9021]

I use paulas choice exfoliant I am in my first trimester. Can I continue?

[@MS-eg9wj]

I used benzoyl peroxide and retinol within the first month of my pregnancy. Does it risk????

[@fairfieldcountyctrealestat9190]

Can you get a hydrafacial while pregnant? I read conflicting data

[@amyhussain3173]

Very practical list, I see most new mums pack their entire house into their hospital bag

[@JhengVillanueva]

Hi, I’m pregnant, can i use axis-y dark spot correcting glow serum? Thank you for answering

[@amntahir]

have you used that glow serum i was also searching that can be used in pregnancy or not?

[@saparyasudhakaran1349]

Hii...can I use salicylic acid face wash while TTC???

[@helvesgeyik9039]

Thank you very very much for video, specially for salicilic acid. Very very useful. And sunscreen, too. Because I have drier skin, I never found a hidrating mineral sunscreen until now and, finally, I learned from your video that I can use chemical sunscreen, too. Very very good info for me. I do a good skincare routine in the morning and, at final, I put my mineral sunscreen and, all my glowy skin becomes dull and dry. So, thank you thank you, thank you.

[@desireedesaulniers3701]

WHat about avobenzone classically found in chemical sunscreens? It’s used in the La Roche Posay sunscreens. Speaking as a currently pregnant person?

[@desireedesaulniers3701]

Currently pregnant person!*

[@onestepaday110]

Alpha arbutin 2%+HA THE ORDINARY can we use ?

[@macyj4330]

Hi Dr. Ellis! I am wondering about your opinion on reintroducing Tretenoin while breastfeeding. Just curious! Thank you! Really appreciated this video

[@DrSamEllis]

I’m using it while breastfeeding!

[@gretchenniemann2061]

This is THE best information! I was off of Tret during my last pregnancy and reintroduced when I weaned at 14 months. I was using it for two months and then got a positive pregnancy test, so back off of tretinoin I go! Glad I only have to wait 8 months! 🙌

[@Rajicherugondi]

​@@gretchenniemann2061how many months before you stopped using tretinion while planning pregnancy

[@gretchenniemann2061]

@@Rajicherugondi well we didn’t plan this last pregnancy so I was actually using tretinoin up until I found out I was pregnant around 5/6ish weeks 😬 Thankfully he was born healthy and no issues!

[@Rajicherugondi]

@@gretchenniemann2061 thank God 😊 some are recommending to stop tretinion before 6months while planning pregnancy what is your opinion dear

[@snowysnow1017]

Hi doc can i use sesderma vit c ? In preg

[@y.t.5304]

What about alpha arbutin? Is that save?

[@AnAn-cm4je]

May I use the product containing 0.1% AHA and 0.1%BHA tonner of cosrx during pregnancy?

[@nandini4154]

Can i use vitamin e as face wash please tell me plsss

[@jessicaroach5602]

Hi! I am having the hardest time findings answers on how soon you should stop the use of the retinoid before trying to conceive. My derm said for me to stop my tazarotene 3 months before I stop my birth control but I felt that was excessive as others have told me one month. Also, is it good to almost kind of gradually stop a retinoid? Or is it best to stop cold turkey and start your new pregnancy safe routine?

[@DrSamEllis]

I’d follow what your personal healthcare team advises. For topical products I generally have my patients stop the day before.

[@anikaa8781]

Is it okay to use Vitamin A while pregnant or trying to conceive?

[@farnluks6996]

I didn’t know I was pregnant and I used retinol few times! Is it gonna be okay?😢 I’m so scared.

[@candybinks5084]

I just finish Chemotherapy can I have any of this products to help renew my facial skin?

[@syifaahasim5978]

is aha bha peeling solution safe?

[@purnimapal8619]

What about alpha arbutin??

[@teenkingzz5825]

Namaste! Love from India 🇮🇳🙏! 💖& a new Subscriber here! What do you think about Benzyl Alcohol? Is it same like Sodium Benzoate which makes carcinogenic compound when combined with ascorbic acid? Awaiting for the reply 🌸

[@dotee100]

Doctor the sulphur soap you mentioned has 25% salicylic acid! Isnt that too much in pregnancy?

[@drashtidhamiOG]

Can I use cosrex products in pregnancy ?

[@justinewright9493]

Thank you so much for this video! I have a quick question for you regarding salicylic acid. I’m pregnant and used (only once) a shampoo with sodium salicylate. Is this the same thing as salicylic acid? If so, do you think it’s ok? Thanks so much again!

[@DrSamEllis]

It’s not equivalent but similar! Shouldn’t be a problem :)

[@odishatgtpcmhub1732]

First i have seen ur short video on ingredients that u didn't avoid during ur pregnancy... And now I came to this video... Here I didn't get a good dermatologist who can educate us... We need to choose our skin care carefully specially for acne prone skin like me

[@anikaa8781]

Is it okay to use Vitamin A while pregnant or trying to conceive?

[@Wish_clothing]

Can I use alpha arbutin during pregnancy?

[@Noxolo612]

What about Niacinamide and urea?

[@purnimapal8619]

I was using minimalist salicylic acid 2% as chemical peel before I come to know I am pregnant after knowing I stopped does it affect my baby.

[@Kayla-on9hy]

What are your thoughts with Biden Pilosa and willow bark ingredients in skincare? Would you consider them pregnancy and breastfeeding safe?