Ingredient Glossary

1,2-Hexanediol is a common cosmetic ingredient with no evidence of systemic toxicity, making it safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a stable vitamin C derivative with no systemic absorption concerns, making it safe for topical use.

A non-nutritive sweetener regarded as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding in moderation.

Topical peptides like Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 have large molecular weights that prevent significant systemic absorption, posing no risk to pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a high-molecular-weight polymer that is not absorbed through the skin, making it safe for use.

Adapalene is a topical retinoid; while systemic absorption is low, current clinical guidance advises avoiding all retinoids during pregnancy and lactation due to potential risks.

Adenosine is a naturally occurring nucleoside with no evidence of systemic harm from topical application.

A high-intensity sweetener regarded as safe in moderation.

A high-fructose natural syrup. Safe in moderation; limit excess sugar.

No safe amount in pregnancy. While breastfeeding, avoid alcohol or wait 2-3 hours per drink before nursing.

Allantoin is a well-tolerated skin-soothing agent with an established safety profile for topical use.

A rare sugar sweetener regarded as safe in moderation.

Topical sweet almond oil is widely used as an emollient and is considered safe during pregnancy.

Aloe vera is widely considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Alpha Arbutin is a skin-lightening agent that may metabolize into hydroquinone; it is best avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data.

Marshmallow root extract provides safe soothing benefits when applied topically in wash-off products.

Althaea Rosea Flower Extract is a botanical ingredient with no evidence of systemic toxicity when used topically.

Aluminum Hydroxide is an inert mineral ingredient that is not absorbed through the skin.

Aluminum powder in cosmetic formulations is not systemically absorbed and is considered safe for topical use.

Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate is an inert texturizing agent with no systemic absorption.

Naturally occurring amino acids that hydrate skin topically with no pregnancy risk.

A chemical in hair dye and permanent treatments. Strong fumes can cause nausea; use in a well-ventilated space and consider ammonia-free options in pregnancy.

A high-molecular-weight polymer used as a thickener that does not penetrate the skin.

A foaming surfactant. Irritant potential but not a reproductive concern.

A fragrance allergen. Limit use if sensitive.

Low mercury; safe in pregnancy.

Botanical extract with limited safety and toxicology data in breastfeeding.

An estrogenic herbal tea. Limit intake; avoid large amounts in pregnancy.

Plant-derived food coloring widely recognized as safe for food consumption during lactation.

Water used as a product base and solvent.

Hydroquinone precursor with limited safety data during lactation; caution is advised for skin-brightening agents.

Nourishing plant oil safe for topical application during breastfeeding.

Amino acid used as a skin conditioning agent with no known lactation risks.

A neuropeptide for expression lines. Limited data; conservative use.

A topical bruise remedy. Avoid on broken skin and never ingest during pregnancy.

Topical fruit extract with high safety profile and minimal absorption.

A starch thickener. Safe in normal food amounts.

Also known as: Vitamin C

Vitamin C antioxidant with excellent safety profile in topical cosmetics.

Stable topical vitamin C derivative considered safe and beneficial in pregnancy skincare.

Evidence indicates ashwagandha may increase the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery and may pass into breast milk; it should be avoided during both pregnancy and breastfeeding [5, 10].

Botanical antioxidant safe for topical use during lactation.

An artificial sweetener. Generally considered safe in moderation, but people with phenylketonuria must avoid it; some prefer to limit artificial sweeteners in pregnancy.

A carotenoid antioxidant. Safe in normal cosmetic use.

Lower mercury than king mackerel; safe in moderation.

Soothing topical ingredient widely recommended to relieve dry or irritated skin safely.

Gentle oat-derived peptide used for soothing skin with no systemic risks.

Common topical UV filter with negligible systemic absorption when applied to intact skin during breastfeeding.

A nutrient-dense fruit. Safe and encouraged; rich in healthy fats and folate.

A dicarboxylic acid for acne and dark spots. Topical azelaic acid is considered safe in pregnancy and is a preferred acne treatment; minimal systemic absorption.

Safe; important for pregnancy.

Standard enrichment nutrients added to grains to restore essential vitamins and minerals; safe at dietary intake levels.

An antioxidant preservative with some animal-study concerns at high doses. Limit processed foods containing it during pregnancy where possible.

An antioxidant preservative similar to BHA. Low dietary exposure is generally low risk, but limiting heavily processed foods is reasonable.

An enzymatic ferment used for gentle surface exfoliation, safe for topical lactation use.

Safe when fully cooked.

Common dietary leavening agent safe in food products while breastfeeding.

While often marketed as a natural retinol alternative, there is insufficient clinical data to confirm safety; the standard precautionary approach is to avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Common grain extract used for flavor, safe during breastfeeding.

A culinary herb. Food amounts are safe; avoid concentrated essential oil ingestion.

An allergenic ingredient in some 'natural' skincare. Avoid with bee allergies; limited pregnancy data.

A natural wax. Safe in cosmetic use.

A hair-conditioning agent. Safe in normal rinse-off use.

A resin essential oil and common allergen. Dilute well; use cautiously.

A chemical sunscreen filter and fragrance ingredient. Limited data; mineral sunscreens are a conservative choice.

Topical benzoyl peroxide is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used in low concentrations.

A preservative and solvent. Safe in normal cosmetic use.

A fragrance ingredient and medication. Limit cosmetic exposure; avoid medicinal use without guidance.

A fragrance allergen. Limit use if sensitive.

A citrus essential oil that is phototoxic. Avoid sun exposure after topical use.

A vitamin A precursor. Does not carry retinoid risk; safe in cosmetic use.

Beta-glucan is a skin-soothing ingredient with no evidence of systemic risk, making it safe for topical use.

Bifida ferment extract is a topical postbiotic that does not pose systemic risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Bifida ferment filtrate is a topical ingredient with no evidence of systemic absorption or risk to pregnancy or lactation.

Antioxidant berry extracts are safe for topical application with negligible systemic absorption.

Fruit extract complexes are safe for topical cosmetic use during pregnancy and lactation.

Also known as: Vitamin B7, Vitamin H

A B vitamin often taken for hair and nails. Safe at recommended doses during pregnancy and lactation.

A soothing chamomile-derived compound. Low irritation and considered safe in cosmetic use.

Hormonal effects; avoid in pregnancy.

A common spice. Safe in normal food amounts.

A caffeinated tea. Safe up to about 2-3 cups daily; keep total caffeine under 200 mg/day.

A sugar-refining byproduct rich in iron. Safe and a modest iron source in moderation.

Contains toxic constituents with potential for severe cardiovascular and neurological effects; avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Topical source of gamma-linolenic acid; safe on intact skin when not applied near the nipple.

Topical botanical anti-inflammatory with minimal systemic absorption.

An injectable neurotoxin for wrinkles. Elective cosmetic use is not recommended in pregnancy due to limited safety data; postpone until after pregnancy and nursing.

Plant sterols providing barrier support with negligible systemic absorption.

A metallic colorant. Avoid inhalation; cosmetic use is low risk.

May contain elevated levels of inorganic arsenic; limit intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A less-refined sugar. Safe in moderation; still added sugar.

A dairy fat. Safe in moderation; high in saturated fat.

A nail polish solvent. Use in ventilation; avoid inhalation.

Standard cosmetic humectant with negligible systemic absorption.

A fragrance with reproductive concern that is banned in the EU. Avoid in pregnancy.

Natural emollient widely recognized as safe for nursing mothers.

Standard cosmetic emulsifier with minimal risk during breastfeeding.

Hair/skin conditioning agent with low systemic absorption.

Limit to about 200mg per day in pregnancy (roughly one 12oz coffee). In breastfeeding, moderate intake is usually fine but watch for infant irritability.

Soothing; safe for pregnancy.

A mineral essential for fetal bone development and maternal bone health. Safe and important at recommended intakes.

Safe; important if dietary intake is low.

Calcium phosphate is a common mineral additive that is safe for dietary use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A common bread preservative. Regarded as safe at food levels.

Calendula officinalis flower extract is a gentle botanical ingredient generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Topical botanical extract providing antioxidant benefits without significant systemic caffeine absorption.

Topical green tea extract is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding as systemic absorption is minimal.

White tea leaf extract is a topical antioxidant with minimal skin penetration, making it safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Green tea leaf extract is safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to low systemic absorption.

A strong-smelling compound in balms. Avoid large amounts and ingestion in pregnancy.

Essential oils can act as skin sensitizers and lack comprehensive human reproductive safety studies when used topically.

A plant wax. Safe in cosmetic use.

Canola and sunflower oils are standard dietary fats that are safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caprylhydroxamic acid is a chelating agent and preservative that is safe for topical application during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caprylic/capric triglyceride is a common emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin, safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caprylyl glycol is a skin conditioning agent with low toxicity, safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A common food coloring regarded as safe at typical dietary levels.

Carbomer is a high-molecular-weight synthetic polymer that is not absorbed through the skin, making it safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Carbonated water is simply water with dissolved carbon dioxide and is safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A spice. Safe in normal food amounts.

A plant wax. Safe in cosmetic and food use.

A seaweed-derived thickener. Regarded as safe as a food additive, though some people avoid it due to digestive-sensitivity debates.

A moisturizing oil. Safe topically; oral castor oil for labor induction is not recommended without a provider.

A chili spice. Safe in normal food amounts; may cause heartburn.

When used topically in cosmetic formulations at appropriate concentrations, cedarwood oil is generally considered safe.

Cellulose is an inert, non-toxic ingredient that is safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Limited specific safety data for plant-derived vesicle extracts during lactation.

A soothing botanical extract widely used topically with an established safety profile.

Naturally occurring skin lipid that supports the moisture barrier safely.

Skin-barrier lipids naturally present in skin. Safe in cosmetic use.

Emulsifier; safe for pregnancy.

Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that is non-irritating and safe for topical application.

Cetearyl olivate is an emulsifier with negligible systemic absorption, making it safe for topical use.

Cetyl alcohol is a safe, non-toxic emollient widely used in cosmetics with no safety concerns for pregnancy or lactation.

Raw fish; parasite and bacteria risk, avoid.

Topical chamomile extract is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Topical matricaria extract is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption.

Charcoal powder is an inert cosmetic ingredient that does not absorb systemically.

Pasteurized cheddar cheese is a safe and nutritious food choice during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in food production and are safe for consumption.

Safe; omega-3 and fiber source.

Safe; nutrient-dense algae.

A synthetic preservative safe for cosmetic use at standard concentrations.

Topical vitamin D derivative used in low cosmetic amounts with no known reproductive risks.

Natural skin barrier lipid considered safe in cosmetics.

A nutrient vital for fetal brain development. Safe and increasingly recognized as important during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Important for fetal brain development; safe as directed.

A cinnamon-like fragrance allergen. Limit use if sensitive.

A common spice. Safe in food amounts; avoid high-dose supplements.

A chemical sunscreen filter. Limited data; consider mineral alternatives.

A lemony fragrance compound. Safe in normal use; allergen if sensitive.

Common organic acid used to adjust pH, safe for topical use.

Common organic acids used for flavoring and preservation, naturally present in many foods and safe for nursing mothers.

A floral fragrance compound. Safe in normal cosmetic use; allergen if sensitive.

A fragrance compound. Safe in normal use.

Essential oil used for fragrance at low concentrations, safe for topical application.

Essential oil fragrance that may cause contact sensitization or photosensitivity; avoid application near the chest/nipple area.

An essential oil with traditional labor associations. Avoid in early pregnancy; use cautiously.

A spice. Safe in food amounts; avoid concentrated oil ingestion.

Also known as: Ubiquinone

An antioxidant used for energy and fertility support. Some early data is reassuring, but routine supplementation in pregnancy is not well established.

Mild surfactant commonly used in body washes with minimal dermal absorption and safe topical profile.

Mild amphoteric surfactant with negligible systemic absorption.

A mild plant-based surfactant. Safe in normal use.

Fatty acid mixtures used as surfactants have minimal systemic absorption and are considered safe for topical use.

A plant-based milk. Safe in normal food amounts.

A safe plant oil widely used to moisturize skin during pregnancy.

Coconut water is a hydrating botanical ingredient with no evidence of systemic risk when applied topically.

Low mercury; safe in moderation in pregnancy.

Also known as: Hydrolyzed Collagen

Safe; protein supplement.

Also known as: Avena Sativa

Soothing; safe for pregnancy skincare.

Trace mineral used as a cosmetic conditioning agent with negligible systemic uptake.

Copper peptides have minimal dermal penetration and are generally considered safe for topical cosmetic use.

Copper powder is a mineral colorant; while inhalation should be avoided, topical cosmetic use is low risk.

Peptide involved in skin conditioning with minimal dermal penetration and low toxicity.

Plant extracts at very low concentrations (10PPM) pose negligible systemic risk when applied topically.

While data is limited, cordyceps is a food-grade supplement generally recognized as safe in moderate amounts.

A spice and herb. Safe in normal food amounts.

Corn starch is a common food ingredient that is safe for consumption during pregnancy and lactation.

Corn syrup is a common sweetener that is safe for dietary consumption during pregnancy and lactation.

Dehydrated corn syrup. Safe in moderation; still added sugar.

Coumarin in cosmetic concentrations is considered safe for topical use.

Safe if made from pasteurized milk.

A soothing botanical. Safe in normal cosmetic use.

A standard food-grade dough conditioner and natural preservative, completely safe.

A spice. Safe in normal food amounts.

Topical botanical extract considered safe for skincare use.

Cyclamate is banned in the US and evidence suggests it should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation due to safety concerns.

A volatile silicone. Low risk in topical use.

A volatile silicone. Low risk; some environmental concern.

Cynanchum atratum extract is a botanical with an extremely low risk profile and is considered safe for topical use.

An omega-3 fatty acid important for fetal brain and eye development. Safe and often recommended; choose purified, low-mercury sources.

Safe; important for fetal brain development.

A formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Allergen concern; limit use.

Coffee with most caffeine removed. Safe in moderation; small caffeine remains.

A gentle plant surfactant. Safe in normal use.

Preservative present in low concentrations with minimal risk of toxicity.

Can carry listeria. Reheat deli meats until steaming during pregnancy. Fine while breastfeeding.

Alcohol rendered unfit to drink. Safe in normal cosmetic use.

A simple sugar. Safe in normal food amounts; limit excess sugar.

A formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Allergen concern; limit use.

Also known as: DBP

Nail polish plasticizer; endocrine concern, avoid.

Dicaprylyl carbonate is a common emollient with minimal systemic absorption, making it safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential developmental risks.

Emollient and conditioning ester with minimal skin absorption.

Cosmetic emollient that stays on the skin surface with minimal absorption.

A culinary herb. Food amounts are safe.

Silicone polymer that acts on the skin surface without systemic absorption.

Herbal extract with limited published data regarding lactation safety.

Contains diosgenin with potential hormonal activity; exercise caution during lactation.

Dioxybenzone is a chemical sunscreen filter that may have endocrine-disrupting effects; mineral alternatives are recommended.

Topical licorice extract used at low cosmetic levels poses minimal systemic exposure.

Standard cosmetic solvent and texture enhancer with minimal systemic absorption.

Mild amphoteric surfactant with negligible skin penetration and no systemic toxicity.

Mild amino acid-based surfactant safe for topical personal care products.

Common chelating agent with very low dermal penetration and high safety margin.

Also known as: Angelica Sinensis

Hormonal effects; avoid in pregnancy.

Common wheat flour safe for standard dietary consumption during breastfeeding.

Safe; anti-inflammatory.

An immune-support herb. Limited data suggests low risk in early pregnancy, but robust safety evidence is lacking; check with your provider.

Limited safety data; immune stimulant, consult provider.

High caffeine and stimulants; avoid in pregnancy.

Standard grain products that provide complex carbohydrates and energy, safe for consumption during pregnancy.

Standard staple food enriched with essential B vitamins and iron, safe for lactating individuals.

Ensulizole is a widely used, FDA-recognized safe UV filter with minimal systemic absorption, making it appropriate for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Standard processing aids used in cheese production that present no risk to breastfed infants.

Standard components used in cheese processing that pose no risk during lactation.

Topical plant extract with soothing properties and negligible systemic absorption.

Herbal extract with sparse safety data for nursing mothers.

A sugar alcohol sweetener. Generally well tolerated; large amounts may cause digestive upset but it is not a reproductive concern.

Used as a solvent and penetration enhancer; topical absorption is minimal and generally considered safe.

A nail polish solvent. Use in ventilation; avoid inhalation.

Fatty acid ester commonly used as a solvent and emollient with minimal absorption.

Mild preservative and skin conditioner with no known lactation risks.

An essential oil. Diluted topical use is low risk; avoid ingestion and large amounts.

A clove-like fragrance allergen. Limit use if sensitive.

Topical antioxidant fruit extract with negligible systemic entry.

Used to ripen cervix; consult provider before use.

Also known as: Oenothera Biennis

Safe for topical use during pregnancy.

Concentrated botanical extracts and absolutes have limited clinical safety data regarding systemic absorption during pregnancy.

Botanical extract used as a skin conditioning agent with no known lactation risks when used topically.

A gentle floral fragrance compound. Safe in normal use.

Fennel contains estragole, a substance that may be harmful in concentrated amounts; regulatory bodies recommend avoiding medicinal doses or tea during pregnancy and lactation.

Fenugreek should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks including uterine stimulation. It is generally considered safe for short-term use while breastfeeding to support milk supply.

An essential mineral used to fortify foods, helping to prevent maternal anemia during pregnancy.

A plant antioxidant. Low risk in topical use.

Safe if made from pasteurized milk.

Fruit extract used as a skin conditioning agent with negligible systemic absorption.

Safe; omega-3 and fiber source.

Also known as: Vitamin B9, Folate

Recommended before and during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Safe while breastfeeding too.

A known carcinogen found in some hair straightening treatments and nail products. Avoid exposure during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Undisclosed fragrance mixtures may contain potential allergens or sensitizers; avoid direct infant contact.

An essential oil. Diluted topical use is low risk; limited data.

There is limited safety data on orchid flower extract in pregnancy, though the almond oil base is benign.

A prebiotic fiber. Safe in normal food amounts.

Common simple sugar safe for consumption during breastfeeding.

Plant-derived antioxidant blends safe for topical application.

Plant polysaccharide used cosmetically with negligible skin absorption.

A prebiotic fiber. Safe in normal food amounts.

Common flavor and fragrance ingredient with low skin absorption.

Safe in normal food amounts and typical supplement doses. High-dose extracts may have blood-thinning effects; check with your provider if on medication.

A rose-like fragrance compound. Safe in normal use; allergen if sensitive.

Clarified butter. Safe in moderation; high in saturated fat.

Ginger is widely considered safe for pregnancy-related nausea at typical dietary and supplement doses up to 1 g/day.

Ginger is considered safe for use during both pregnancy and breastfeeding when consumed in standard therapeutic or dietary amounts.

Ginkgo biloba lacks sufficient safety data and may increase bleeding risk, making it unsuitable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid with a large molecular size, resulting in minimal systemic absorption and a safe profile for topical use.

Glucose syrup is a food-grade ingredient that is safe for consumption, though intake should be moderated as part of a balanced diet.

Glutamic acid is an amino acid naturally present in the body and is considered safe for topical cosmetic application.

Glycerin is a well-tolerated, non-toxic humectant with negligible systemic absorption, making it safe for topical use.

Glycerine is a benign humectant with no known risks for pregnancy or breastfeeding when used topically.

Glyceryl caprylate is a mild emollient and co-preservative with a high safety profile for topical use.

Glyceryl oleate is a skin-conditioning fatty acid ester that is considered safe for topical cosmetic use.

Glyceryl stearate is a standard, widely used cosmetic emulsifier with no evidence of systemic toxicity or reproductive risk.

Glyceryl stearate SE is a safe, standard cosmetic ingredient with no known concerns for pregnancy or lactation.

Soy-derived polypeptides are large molecules that do not penetrate the skin significantly, making them safe for topical use.

Cosmetic concentrations of glycolic acid are considered safe for topical use; professional-strength chemical peels should be avoided.

Licorice root extract contains phytoestrogenic compounds; while topical absorption is low, caution is advised due to limited safety data.

Goldenseal contains berberine, which is associated with potential risks to the fetus and newborn, and should be avoided.

Grapefruit oil is phototoxic and may cause skin irritation; use with caution and avoid sun exposure on treated areas.

Topical caffeine from green coffee extract has minimal systemic absorption and is considered safe for use in skincare.

Guar gum is a common food-grade thickener that is safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride is a large polymer that does not penetrate the skin, making it safe for topical use.

Plant-derived oils like sunflower seed oil are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Safe; omega-3 and protein source.

Low mercury; safe in pregnancy.

A floral fragrance allergen. Limit use if sensitive.

Emulsifier and solvent with low absorption, posing no risk during lactation.

Okra-derived extract is non-toxic and considered safe for topical cosmetic use.

Hibiscus flower extract is a botanical ingredient considered safe for topical application.

A refined sweetener in many processed foods. Not toxic, but excess added sugar contributes to excessive pregnancy weight gain and blood-sugar spikes.

These large fish accumulate mercury, which can harm a baby's developing nervous system. Choose low-mercury fish like salmon and sardines instead.

Sea buckthorn extract is rich in antioxidants and considered safe for topical use.

A chemical sunscreen UV filter. Limited reproductive-safety data; consider mineral sunscreens if you prefer to minimize chemical filter exposure.

A natural sweetener. Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding; never give honey to infants under 1 year.

Safe for lactating individuals; honey consumed by the mother poses no risk to breastfed infants.

While culinary amounts are generally safe, hops contain phytoestrogens and mild sedative compounds with limited evidence regarding concentrated exposure in breast milk.

Safe when steaming hot; Listeria risk if cold.

A moisture-binding molecule that does not absorb systemically. Safe for both pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A mild over-the-counter steroid cream. Low-strength, small-area use is generally acceptable; avoid large-area or high-strength use without a doctor's guidance.

Due to lack of robust safety data and potential for systemic absorption, professional-grade peroxide treatments are generally advised against during pregnancy and lactation.

Hydrogenated castor oil is a common cosmetic ingredient considered safe for topical use.

Hydrogenated lecithin is a naturally derived emulsifier considered safe for topical use.

This film-forming agent has very low systemic absorption and is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Synthetic hydrocarbon emollients have negligible transdermal penetration and are considered safe for topical use.

This inert skin-conditioning agent has no significant systemic absorption and is considered safe for use.

This skin-conditioning agent has no significant systemic bioavailability and is considered safe for topical use.

Also known as: Collagen Peptides

Topical protein fragments are not absorbed systemically and are considered safe for use.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin with no systemic risk, making it safe for use.

Topical protein derivatives are safe for skin conditioning during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Hyaluronic acid derivatives are safe for topical hydration during pregnancy and lactation.

Hydroquinone has high systemic absorption and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

While it is a potential fragrance allergen, it is not considered a reproductive or developmental toxin; use is safe unless a sensitivity exists.

This topical antioxidant has low dermal absorption and no known risks to the infant.

HICC is a known potent contact allergen and is restricted or banned in many cosmetic regulations; it should be avoided.

This conditioning polymer does not enter the bloodstream and is safe for topical use.

While it is a formaldehyde-releaser and potential allergen, it is not a systemic reproductive toxin; use is safe unless a sensitivity exists.

Also known as: Myo-Inositol

Safe; may help with gestational diabetes.

A prebiotic fiber. Safe in normal food amounts; excess may cause gas.

A glucose-fructose syrup. Safe in moderation; still added sugar.

Essential for fetal thyroid and brain development. Adequate iodine is important in pregnancy and lactation; avoid both deficiency and excess.

Important for thyroid; safe as directed.

Important for pregnancy to support increased blood volume. Safe while breastfeeding at recommended doses.

Iron is essential during pregnancy and lactation to prevent maternal anemia and support fetal development.

Iron oxides are inert mineral pigments that do not penetrate the skin barrier and are considered safe for topical use.

These inert mineral colorants remain on the skin surface and present no systemic risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Mineral pigments are not absorbed through the skin and are safe for use while breastfeeding.

Inert mineral pigments do not penetrate the skin and are safe for topical application.

A sugar alcohol sweetener that is safe in moderation; excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Isopropyl alcohol is safe for normal cosmetic use; systemic absorption is minimal.

Isopropyl myristate is a standard cosmetic emollient with minimal systemic absorption and no known risk to lactation.

An emollient ester that is safe for topical use in cosmetics.

Isostearic acid is a fatty acid with a well-established safety profile for topical cosmetic use.

Essential oils should be used with caution due to potential potency and lack of robust safety data in pregnancy and lactation.

Also known as: Simmondsia Chinensis

Jojoba oil is a moisturizing agent that is safe for topical use.

Kava is associated with significant liver toxicity and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

There is insufficient clinical safety data regarding the use of this fruit extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Kimchi is a safe, probiotic-rich food.

King mackerel is high in mercury, which poses risks to fetal development and infant health.

Limited reproductive safety data exists for kojic acid; conservative use is recommended.

Kombucha contains trace alcohol and live cultures; intake should be limited due to fermentation concerns.

There is a lack of clinical safety data regarding the use of supplemental L-theanine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Lactic acid is a mild alpha-hydroxy acid that is safe in cosmetic formulations due to minimal systemic absorption.

A sugar alcohol sweetener. Safe in moderation; excess may cause GI upset.

Probiotics and their derivatives are generally considered well-tolerated and safe for use during pregnancy and lactation.

Non-viable bacterial lysates are topically applied and do not pose systemic safety concerns during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Cosmetic conditioning agents derived from lactic acid bacteria are safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The natural milk sugar. Safe unless you have lactose intolerance.

Contains iodine; while topical absorption is low, excessive systemic exposure to iodine can affect infant thyroid function.

A wool wax widely used in nipple creams. Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A lanolin derivative. Safe in normal cosmetic use.

Mild plant-derived surfactant with minimal dermal absorption.

Gentle co-surfactant and foam booster with minimal dermal absorption.