What skincare products are recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

As a pharmacist, I provide a well-founded explanation in this article: What skincare products are suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Which active ingredients are safe – and what should mothers pay attention to now?

• 1. Skin changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• 2. The most important principles of skincare for pregnant and breastfeeding women
• 3. Safe and proven ingredients
• 4. Skin problems and targeted care recommendations
• 5. Ingredients and products you should avoid
• 6. The right skincare routine – step by step
• 7. Skin care after childbirth and during breastfeeding
• 8. Nutrition, lifestyle and skin health
• 9. When should you consult a professional?
• 10. Conclusion: Skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding

1. Skin changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding

During this phase of life, the skin undergoes many hormonally induced changes. Typical changes include:

• Dry or tight skin: due to decreased sebum production
• Impure skin and acne: caused by excess sebum production (androgens)
• Melasma / Pigment spots: hormonally induced hyperpigmentation
• Stretch marks: caused by rapid skin growth
• Itching and hypersensitivity: especially in the last trimester of pregnancy

After childbirth, the skin's appearance can change again: breastfeeding hormones, lack of sleep, and stress have a visible effect. The skin then requires extra attention.

2. The most important principles of skincare for pregnant and breastfeeding women

Gentle, safe, effective – these are the three guiding principles of skincare during this phase. Skin is more sensitive, which is why products should be free of fragrances, mild preservatives, and hormones. At the same time, skincare should effectively address typical concerns such as dryness or stretch marks. Natural oils and well-tolerated moisturizers have proven particularly effective.

3. Safe and proven ingredients

These active ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• Plant oils: e.g. almond, jojoba or wheat germ oil to strengthen the skin barrier.
• Hyaluronic acid: for intensive hydration
• Glycerin: for binding moisture and regeneration
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): helps with pigmentation disorders and acne
• Ceramides: strengthen the lipid barrier
• Beeswax: ideal for nipple care, for example in our nipple care product.

Mukisoft nipple care

Our nipple care gently protects and cares for irritated and inflamed nipples, making it ideal for prevention and a soothing feeling during breastfeeding.

I would like to try that.

During breastfeeding, ingredients used in the breast area should be food-safe and fragrance-free. Our breast care product is ideally suited for this purpose.

4. Skin problems and targeted care recommendations

A. Dry, tight skin

• Cause: Hormonal changes, skin stretching, lack of moisture
• Care: Creams with plant oils (e.g., almond, jojoba oil), glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Pharmacy tip: Drink plenty of fluids, eat a nutrient-rich diet – e.g., omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, biotin

B. Impure skin & pregnancy acne

• Cause: Androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands.
• Care: Light, non-greasy moisturizer with niacinamide, zinc
• Important: Avoid products containing retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or high-dose salicylic acid.

C. Stretch marks

• Cause: Rapid growth, connective tissue weakness
• Care: Daily abdominal massage with oils (e.g., wheat germ oil), products containing vitamin E, shea butter
• Note: They fade over time, but usually do not disappear completely.

D. Itching & Hypersensitivity

• Cause: Dryness, hormonal changes
• Care: Products containing urea (up to 5%), glycerin, ceramides – no fragrances or alcohol

E. Pigment changes (melasma, linea nigra)

• Cause: Increased melanin production due to estrogens
• Care: Daily mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide), niacinamide, vitamin C
• Tip: Skin changes usually fade in the months after childbirth.

F. Irritated nipples

• Cause: Breastfeeding, mechanical irritation
• Care: Nipple creams – e.g., our nipple cream with beeswax and jojoba oil
• Note: No fragrances, no alcohol – residues must not be harmful during breastfeeding.

5. Ingredients and products you should avoid

• Retinol & retinoids: Risk to embryos – absolutely avoid!
• High-dose salicylic acid (BHA): not recommended in higher concentrations
• Parabens: Suspected hormonal effects
• Silicones and harsh preservatives: unnecessarily burden sensitive skin.
• Essential oils (e.g., cinnamon, clove, nutmeg): can induce labor.
• Chemical UV filters: switch to mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide).

6. The right skincare routine – step by step

Facial care

1. Cleaning: pH-neutral, fragrance-free cleansing milk
2. Care: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, ceramides
3. Sunscreen: Mineral filter (SPF 30+) daily

Body care

1. Showers: Soap-free, moisturizing wash lotions
2. Care: Massage in body oils or lotions containing almond oil or shea butter!
3. Special care: For stretch marks or itching – e.g., products with urea.

Nipple care

• After breastfeeding: e.g., apply a thin layer of our nipple cream .
• Cleaning: with boiled water or saline solution

7. Skin care after childbirth and during breastfeeding

After childbirth, hormone levels change again. Many mothers experience a phase of particularly sensitive, irritated, or dry skin. Lack of sleep, breastfeeding, and physical changes directly affect the skin's appearance.

• Face: Possible symptoms include a sallow complexion, dark circles under the eyes, and blemishes.
• Body: Dry skin, feelings of tightness and possibly itching
• Breast: Sore nipples from frequent breastfeeding

Recommended care:

• Stick to safe, mild ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides.
• Shea butter for stressed skin areas
• Do not use irritating or heavily perfumed products on the chest area.

HämoLind by Mukisoft

This specially developed formula offers soothing support for the sensitive skin areas in the anal region and promotes regeneration.

I would like to try that.

8. Nutrition, lifestyle and skin health

Skin is not only cared for from the outside – its health can also be specifically supported from the inside:

• Water: Drink at least 2 liters per day
• Nutrition: Pay attention to omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, vitamins C and E, and biotin.
• Sleep: Promotes cell regeneration – even short periods of rest help
• Exercise: Walks, yoga, or light activity promote blood circulation.
• Stress reduction: Meditation, breathing exercises or targeted rest periods support hormonal balance.

Important: Your well-being is essential – for you and your baby.

9. When should you consult a professional?

Even with the best care, there may be situations in which medical or pharmaceutical advice is essential:

• Severe, persistent itching: May indicate liver disease during pregnancy (e.g., cholestasis).
• Severe acne or inflammatory skin changes should be examined by a dermatologist.
• Allergic reactions: If redness, burning, or swelling occurs, discontinue use immediately.
• If you are unsure about certain ingredients, ask your pharmacist or gynecologist.

When in doubt, it's always better to ask again – for your safety and that of your child.

10. Conclusion: Which skincare products are best during pregnancy and breastfeeding? – Your path to healthy, beautiful skin

Skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding is demanding, but with the right knowledge and a targeted selection of products, you can optimally support your skin. Opt for mild, safe, and effective ingredients such as plant oils, hyaluronic acid, urea, glycerin, vitamins C and E, niacinamide, and ceramides. Avoid retinol, high-dose salicylic acid, parabens, and harsh chemicals.

As a pharmacist, I am happy to advise you in finding the right products for your individual needs. Your skin will thank you – and you can fully concentrate on the adventure of family life.

11. FAQs about skincare during pregnancy & breastfeeding

Products containing plant oils, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, or shea butter are considered safe. Look for formulas that are as natural and fragrance-free as possible.

Use mild, non-greasy products containing niacinamide or zinc. Avoid retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and high-dose salicylic acid. Consulting a pharmacist is recommended.

Only partially. If it contains retinol, chemical peels, or harsh ingredients, you should avoid it. Vitamin C or niacinamide, on the other hand, are permitted even during pregnancy.

Use our nipple care products with shea butter and jojoba oil – gentle, vegan, and fragrance-free. Important: only use products that leave no residue while breastfeeding.

Daily massages with high-quality oils (e.g., almond or wheat germ oil) and regular care with antioxidants strengthen skin elasticity. However, they can rarely be completely avoided.