Is Glycolic Acid Safe During Pregnancy?

Is glycolic acid safe during pregnancy?

Glycolic acid and other alpha-hydroxy acids are poorly absorbed through the skin and considered safe in pregnancy at over-the-counter concentrations for exfoliation and brightening. In short, glycolic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy when you follow the guidance below.

Why this is the guidance

Most of what you put on your skin stays on the surface, but a few ingredients absorb enough to matter in pregnancy. The goal is simply to swap the small number of ingredients with real concerns for the many that are perfectly fine.

How to enjoy it safely

Glycolic Acid is a pregnancy-friendly pick. Patch-test new products, follow the normal directions, and you're good to go — no special precautions needed beyond what you'd do anyway.

What about breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding aren't the same — some things that are limited while you're pregnant are perfectly fine once you're nursing, and occasionally the reverse is true. If you're past delivery and wondering about glycolic acid while breastfeeding, check with your provider, since the answer can be different from the pregnancy guidance above.

The bottom line

Glycolic Acid: generally considered safe in pregnancy. Enjoy it sensibly as part of a varied, healthy pregnancy. This page is general education, not medical advice — your provider knows your history and is the final word for your pregnancy.