Especially during pregnancy, the condition of the skin is not always glowing. When you’re pregnant, hormonal changes and increased hydration needs can cause things like melasma (dark spots on your face), eczema, acne, and increased skin sensitivity, not to mention itching on your abdomen and the development of stretch marks. Pregnancy can take a toll on your skin, so a good body wash is essential to keep your skin hydrated and nourished. But skin changes aren’t the only reason you need a new body wash during pregnancy.There are also certain ingredients you should avoid or to which you may develop new sensitivities.
When choosing the best body wash during pregnancy, the first thing you should do is read its ingredients. “Less is more,” says Tracy Woodruff, Ph.D., MPH, professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at the University of California, San Francisco. Products with fewer ingredients reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
To find the best body wash for pregnancy, we consulted several experts, researched the scientific literature, and evaluated dozens of products on the market. Our list of top picks only includes body washes with ingredients that are safe during pregnancy.
What skin care ingredients are safe during pregnancy?
Safe ingredients: Several skin care ingredients are beneficial during pregnancy.
- Shea Butter – A moisturizing oil derived from shea nuts with no known allergy risks.
- Coconut oil – moisturizes the skin and strengthens the barrier.
- Oat Extract – A solvent derived from oats that relieves dry, itchy skin.
- Aloe Vera – An extract from the aloe plant that soothes acne and burns.
- Ceramides – Fats found in skin cells that retain moisture, protect against environmental damage, and promote anti-aging.
Ingredients to avoid: The following ingredients may pose a risk to your unborn child.
- Retinoids — Helps reduce acne and wrinkles. Some types, such as adapalene, may be safe to use during pregnancy Under medical supervision.
- Retinol – A type of retinoid used to improve skin tone, pigment, and texture.
Potentially hazardous ingredients: Although this does not mean that they are absolutely bad, using these ingredients during pregnancy may disrupt hormones and adversely affect childbirth.
- Parabens – Chemicals that prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
- Phthalates – chemicals used to make plastics more durable And it is often used in fragrances.
Ingredients that may cause allergies: Although not all pregnant people should avoid them, you may want to stop using the following ingredients if you are allergic to or sensitive to them.
- Cocamidopropyl betaine—An organic compound obtained from coconut oil. Although generally safe, impurities formed during manufacturing can cause contact dermatitis, says Dr. Lauren Penge, a board-certified dermatologist in New York state.
- Formaldehyde Donor – A chemical that slowly releases formaldehyde to maintain product shelf life, but can cause allergic reactions. Occupational exposure to formaldehyde, such as working in a nail or hair salon, increases the risk of miscarriage and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Our Favorite Pregnancy-Safe Body Washes
Why I liked it
This body wash is our top pick because it’s moisturizing and gentle enough for sensitive skin. It contains essential ceramides 1, 3, 6-11. Soothes dry skin and keeps it moisturized. Dr. Penge personally recommends this to protect and maintain the skin barrier. Contains no soap, fragrance, sulfates, phthalates, or parabens.
This body wash has earned the Seal of Approval from the National Eczema Association. This means it has undergone rigorous ingredient review and testing for hypersensitivity, irritation, and toxicity. I also appreciate that it is fragrance-free.
But please be careful
It contains cocamidopropyl betaine, which can cause dermatitis if you don’t wash it off thoroughly or if you have allergies.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: Ceramide 1, 3, 6-11
- size: 10 oz
Why I liked it
Many soaps that don’t contain potentially problematic ingredients also lack sudsing potential. If you like great lather, this lightweight foaming body wash is for you. It is so gentle that even those with sensitive skin can use it on their face and body. in spite of hypoallergenicis strong enough. Removes up to 99% of bacteria. It’s also phthalate- and sulfate-free and hydrates your skin for up to 24 hours. At $0.52 per ounce, it’s also a bargain.
But please be careful
It has a slight flower-like scent, so it may be a concern for those who are sensitive to smells, such as those who are pregnant. Also, it is Contains cocamidopropyl betaine, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Benzalkonium chloride can also irritate sensitive skin.
detail:
- scent: Yes; floral pattern
- Main ingredients: Benzalkonium chloride 0.13%
- size: 13.5 oz
Why I liked it
The secret ingredient in this Alba Botanica Body Wash is organic unrefined coconut oil, which is rich in antioxidants and absorbs quickly into the skin. coconut oil Soothes skin itching and improves overall hydration and elasticity.. This hypoallergenic body wash is free of parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and sulfates. It is also Great value: A 32-ounce bottle can be purchased for $14, which works out to $0.44 per ounce.
But please be careful
Coconut oil has many benefits for the skin, but it has a unique scent that not everyone likes.
detail:
- scent: Yes; Coconut
- Main ingredients: organic unrefined coconut oil
- size: 32 oz
Why I liked it
Hormonal acne during pregnancy is no fun. This body wash helps clear and exfoliate skin without the ingredients found in anti-acne skin care like beta-hydroxy acids, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Also free of parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasing ingredients. Instead, Honest amino acid, Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) from applesglycolic acid, and lactic acid are safe to use during pregnancy. It can also be used on the face.
But please be careful
Although it is unscented, it does have a slightly unique smell, so it may not be suitable for sensitive noses.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: Apple alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, amino acids
- size: 8 oz
Why I liked it
If you’re looking for a vegan body wash, Jason’s products are a great place to start. The brand is certified cruelty-free by the Cosmetic Consumer Information Union (also known as Leaping Bunny Certified). In short, its products and ingredients are: I have never done animal experiments And the company is subject to independent audits to ensure this.
This body wash Contains vitamin E and B5a lavender scent that leaves your skin soft and smooth and reminds you of a relaxing day at the spa. Made without parabens, phthalates, and petrolatum (petrolatum). This lavender body wash is the best value on the list, as it can be purchased for just under $0.40 per ounce. Plus, you can get it for just $0.33 per ounce when you subscribe on Amazon.
But please be careful
It contains cocamidopropyl betaine, which can cause irritation if you don’t wash it off properly or if you’re allergic.
detail:
- scent: Yes; lavender
- Main ingredients: Lavender extract, marigold extract, aloe vera, calendula, chamomile extract, avocado oil, apricot kernel oil
- size: 30 oz
Why I liked it
If dry skin is your problem, this hydrating body wash from Method can help. It is rich in shea butter, a natural anti-inflammatory agent. stimulate collagen productionincreases hydration and protects the skin. This plant-based coconut oil body wash is biodegradable and not tested on animals. It is also free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Plus, it costs just $0.44 per ounce and comes in a bottle made from over 50% recycled plastic.
But please be careful
This is also a pick that contains cocamidopropyl betaine.
detail:
- scent: Yes; Coconut
- Main ingredients: Rice bran, coconut oil, shea butter extract
- size: 18 oz
Why I liked it
Vani Cream sets high standards when it comes to protecting sensitive skin. this Soap free Body wash is free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde emissions, botanical extracts, sulfates, cocamidopropyl betaine, and gluten. It contains cocoglucoside, a cleaning agent made from glucose and coconut oil.
the pH balancedThis means it won’t strip your skin of its natural moisture and comes with the Seal of Approval from the National Eczema Association. Dr. Penge uses it on his own children and also recommends it for patients with sensitive, allergic, or eczema-prone skin, such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis.
But please be careful
The body wash has a thin, creamy consistency and a little goes a long way.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: Coco glucoside, sodium cocoyl isethionate
- size: 12 oz
Why I liked it
This native body wash is as natural as it gets. that I only have 9 ingredientsall of which are derived from coconut oil, salt, or food-grade acids. It’s free of dyes, sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, and has a light coconut and vanilla scent. It is also Bargain items. A 36-ounce bottle costs just $15 at Walmart, which works out to $0.42 per ounce. This is one of the best prices on the list. The larger bottle also comes with a pump for easy pouring.
But please be careful
Unfortunately, one of the nine ingredients in this formula is cocamidopropyl betaine.
detail:
- scent: Yes; coconut and vanilla
- Main ingredients: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Food Grade Salt and Acid, Coconut and Vanilla Flavor
- size: 18oz or 36oz
Why I liked it
this The unscented body wash contains a variety of skin-soothing ingredients, including calendula, coconut oil, chamomile, aloe vera, jojoba, and quinoa extract. Hypoallergenic; Can’t be tornmaking it Safe to use on babies. Additionally, it is free of dyes, synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde donors. These are chemicals that slowly release formaldehyde to preserve product shelf life and can cause skin allergies. What’s more, this body wash can also be used as a shampoo, making it a great value.
But please be careful
If you use this 2-in-1 product on your hair, keep in mind that it doesn’t lather as much as other shampoos. This is probably because it does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a common shampoo ingredient used to create lather.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: Calendula, coconut oil, chamomile, aloe vera, jojoba protein, quinoa extract
- size: 10 oz
Why I liked it
This body wash is specially formulated to soothe and restore damaged skin. The secret ingredient is oat flour and oat extract, Contains prebiotics that increase ceramides, soothe itching and irritation, and reduce inflammation. It also contains aloe vera and provitamin B5. It also contains no soaps, sulfates, fragrances, dyes, phthalates, or parabens, so it won’t irritate your skin. To round out your skincare routine, you can also try Aveeno’s Repairing Cream and Itch Relief Balm.
But please be careful
Aveeno body wash contains cocamidopropyl betaine, which is generally considered safe but may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: Oat flour, oat extract, aloe vera, provitamin B5
- size: 18 oz
Why I liked it
This hypoallergenic body wash is made with organic and vegan ingredients such as aloe vera and olive oil. Safe for pregnant women as well as newborns. The unique gel formula is free of parabens and phthalates and gently cleanses skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. Olive oil keeps skin moisturized and is great for removing oily residue and waterproof makeup. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent that supports wound healing. This body wash is also available on the company’s website in a refillable pouch type that is both environmentally friendly and wallet-friendly.
But please be careful
This unscented Mustela cleansing gel contains cocamidopropyl betaine.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: olive oil, aloe vera
- size: 13.52 oz
Why I liked it
This purifying foaming cleanser is safe for sensitive skin and contains niacinamide, a type of vitamin B-3 that doesn’t clog pores, controls oil, prevents acne, and helps reduce pore size.another The unique ingredients prebiotic hot spring waterwhat you can do Improves dry skin and relieves atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. It also contains ceramide-3, which moisturizes the skin and enhances its barrier function. Dr. Penji uses this on the face and recommends it for combination and oily skin. The wash is free of oils, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and fragrances.
But please be careful
Extra rinsing may be required due to the thick texture.
detail:
- scent: no
- Main ingredients: Prebiotic hot spring water, niacinamide, ceramide-3
- size: 13.52 oz
How to choose the best body wash during pregnancy
To determine the best body wash for pregnancy, we first learned about how pregnancy can affect your skin, which ingredients are effective, and which ingredients to avoid. As part of this process, we interviewed dermatologists and asked them their recommendations for pregnant people.
We then spent several weeks learning about the different types of ingredients used in body washes, combing through research studies to learn more about potentially harmful ingredients and their safe alternatives. With all this in mind, we’ve evaluated dozens of body washes on the market, scrutinizing every ingredient and evaluating its safety against our research and expert recommendations. All of our top picks are free of potentially dangerous ingredients, and many are safe for newborns.
our experts
- Dr. Lauren Penge, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York.
- Tracy Woodruff, Ph.D., MPH, professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at the University of California, San Francisco, and director of the UCSF Health Center for Environmental Research and Translation. Woodruff studies the effects of harmful chemicals and pollutants on health, pregnancy, and child development.
Factors to consider when buying a safe body wash during pregnancy
When choosing the right body wash for you, consider your own needs and sensitivities in addition to safe ingredients.
- scent: Hyperosmia, or an increased sense of smell, is a temporary side effect of pregnancy that occurs in two-thirds of pregnant women. To prevent fragrance problems, it’s best to avoid body washes that contain artificial fragrances (synthetic fragrances can also cause side effects, such as headaches). Fragrances are often used to mask harmful chemicals. Choose products labeled “unscented” rather than “unscented,” as “unscented” may contain scent-masking chemicals.
- Skin needs and concerns: Pregnancy can cause a variety of changes to your skin. One reason for this is that your immune system is more active during pregnancy. As a result, certain and often unpleasant changes can occur in the skin. During pregnancy, your body needs more water; Therefore, not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration. This can lead to dry, itchy skin and chapped lips. In addition to increasing your water consumption, choose a moisturizing body wash. Hormonal acne can occur during pregnancy due to an increase in progesterone. It may be tempting to reach for your go-to acne products, but the ingredients commonly used to treat acne can be potentially harmful, so it’s best to choose options that are safe during pregnancy.
Should I change my body wash during pregnancy?
it depends. If the body wash you were using before pregnancy does not contain potentially harmful ingredients, you may be able to continue using it during pregnancy. In particular, Dr. Woodruff recommends checking the ingredients in your body wash for phthalates, parabens, and bisphenol A (BPA). A great resource is the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Guide.
who are we
Laura Lu, MS, is an experienced health writer for parents with a Master of Science in Health Communication. During both pregnancies, she overhauled her entire skin care routine to include only products free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. Although her children are now 5 and 3 years old, she continues her clean skin care journey and employs the same principles with them.
