Avoid adapalene (Differin) during pregnancy. Although it’s a newer, third-generation retinoid with limited human pregnancy data, the class-wide retinoid teratogenicity caution applies.…

Avoid DMDM hydantoin in pregnancy. It’s a formaldehyde-releasing preservative that slowly emits formaldehyde over the product’s shelf life — exposure source is…

Avoid formaldehyde during pregnancy. IARC Group 1 human carcinogen. Inhalation and dermal exposure are linked to increased miscarriage risk in salon-worker studies…

Avoid hydroquinone during pregnancy. Up to 35–45% systemic absorption — the highest of any topical cosmetic ingredient. Pregnancy data are limited, so…

Avoid ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy. NSAIDs can cause fetal kidney problems, oligohydramnios, and (after 30 weeks) premature closure of the…

Absolutely avoid isotretinoin (Accutane) in pregnancy. It is one of the most potent known human teratogens — first-trimester exposure causes a roughly…

Avoid octinoxate during pregnancy. The most-used chemical UVB filter globally, with estrogenic endocrine-disruptor signals in animal and cell studies. Flagged alongside oxybenzone…

Avoid oxybenzone during pregnancy. Endocrine disruptor that crosses the placenta. Studies link higher maternal urinary oxybenzone to altered birth weight and Hirschsprung…

Avoid phthalates during pregnancy. This family of endocrine-disrupting plasticizers is associated with altered male reproductive development (reduced anogenital distance) and neurodevelopmental effects…