Shop by concern
Acne and breakouts
Acne treatments take time. It can be several weeks to a few months before you see a difference, so stick with one rather than switching.
Ingredients that help
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Adapalene, a retinoid sold without a prescription from age 12
What dermatologists recommend
- Wash gently, up to twice a day and after sweating, using your fingertips.
- Use gentle, alcohol-free products, and skip astringents, toners, and scrubs, which can dry and irritate skin.
- Don't pick or pop pimples.
- Use a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
- See a dermatologist if acne hasn't improved after a few months of over-the-counter treatment.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, “Acne: Tips for managing”; American Academy of Dermatology, “A dermatologist's guide to skincare from growing up to glowing up”; US FDA, “Topical retinoid acne treatment approved for OTC use”. General information, not medical advice.
Products for acne and breakouts
6,346 products, most popular first. Picked because their key ingredients help with this; we can't see amounts, so check each product's page.
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, Exfoliant). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua, Methylpropanediol (Hydration), Butylene Glycol (Hydration), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, Exfoliant), Polysorbate 20 (Stabilizer), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (Skin Calming/Antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (Ph Balancer), Tetrasodium EDTA (Stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Cetyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Sorbitan Stearate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Lauric Acid, Allantoin, Glycerin, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium Extract, Dimethicone, Xanthan Gum, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Hexylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Aminomethyl Propanol, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Isoamyl Laurate, Tartaric Acid, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Malic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Clitoria Ternatea (Butterfly Pea) Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Glycerin, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Titanium Dioxide/Ci 77891 (Cl 77891), Mica (Ci 77019), Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua, Aminomethyl Propanol (Ph Adjuster), Glycolic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Lactic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Mandelic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Isoamyl Laurate (Emollient), Tartaric Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Butylene Glycol (Texture Enhancer), Propanediol (Hydration), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Malic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Clitoria Ternatea (Butterfly Pea) Flower Extract (Antoxidant/Skin Soothing), Etanorulayh Muidos (Skin Replenishing), Glycyrrhetinic Acid (Licorice-Derived Skin Soothing), Glycerin (Skin Replenishing), Tocopherol (Vitamin E/Antioxidant), Bisabolol (Skin Soothing), Allantoin (Skin Soothing), Hydroxyethylcellulose (Thickener), Hydrogenated Lecithin (Skin-Restoring), Xanthan Gum (Thickener), Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate (Emulsifier), Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 (Stabilizer/Thickener), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) (Mineral Derived Pigment), Mica (Ci 77019) (Mineral Derived Pigment), Tin Oxide (Mineral Derived Pigment), Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Not for kidsTeens: Ask a doctor first
Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone (2%). 35–45% is absorbed through the skin; exposure should be minimized in pregnancy (Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Hydroquinone (2%), Water, Ethoxydiglycol (Hydration), Butylene Glycol (Hydration), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Hydration/Skin-Soothing), Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (Fireweed Extract/Skin-Soothing), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Skin-Soothing), Glycerin (Hydration/Skin Replenishing), Superoxide Dismutase (Antioxidant), Allantoin (Skin-Soothing), Caprylyl Glycol (Texture-Enhancing/Preservative), Hexylene Glycol (Hydration/Texture-Enhancing), Hydroxyethylcellulose (Texture-Enhancing), Sodium Metabisulfite (Stabilizer), Sodium Sulfite (Stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (Ph Balancing), Polyquaternium-10 (Texture-Enhancing), Phytic Acid (Antioxidant), Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol (Hydration), Cetyl Alcohol (Texture-Enhancing), PPG-14 Butyl Ether (Texture-Enhancing), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid/Exfoliant), Dimethicone (Hydration), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E/Antioxidant), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (Chamomile Extract/Skin-Soothing), Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem (Willowherb) Extract (Skin-Soothing), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (Skin-Soothing), Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract (Skin-Soothing), Bisabolol (Skin-Soothing), Allantoin (Skin-Soothing), Cyclopentasiloxane (Hydration), Cyclohexasiloxane (Hydration), Dimethiconol (Hydration/Texture-Enhancing), PEG-40 Stearate (Texture-Enhancing), Sorbitan Stearate (Texture-Enhancing), PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer (Texture-Enhancing), Polyacrylamide (Texture-Enhancing), C13-14 Isoparaffin (Texture-Enhancing), Laureth-7 (Texture-Enhancing), Disodium EDTA (Stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (Ph Adjuster), Hexylene Glycol (Hydration/Texture-Enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (Preservative), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Skin-Replenishing), Ethylhexylglycerin (Preservative), Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Glycerin, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Triethanolamine, Biotin, Isopentyldiol, Trifolium Pratense Flower Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Isononyl Isononanoate, Bisabolol, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Disodium EDTA, Maltodextrin, Punica Granatum Pericarp Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Calcium Pantothenate, Arginine Hcl, Serine, Acetyl Cysteine, DMDM Hydantoin, Panthenol, Sodium PCA, Ethoxydiglycol, Aqua
Sensitive skin: essential oils Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (0.5%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (0.5%), Water (Aqua), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethoxydiglycol, Glyceryl Stearate, 1-2 Hexanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sclerotium Gum, Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Allantoin, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Phytate, Niacinamide, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, T-Butyl Alcohol, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Polyacrylate
Sensitive skin: niacinamide Why?
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Diglycerin, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Aspergillus/Rice Ferment Filtrate, Papain, Prunus Mume (Korean Plum) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Shine Muscat Grape) Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Salicylic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract, Allantoin, Vigna Radiata Seed Extract, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Maltodextrin, Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Chlorphenesin, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Curcuma Longa (Tumeric) Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Pantolactone, Phenoxyethanol, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil
Sensitive skin: essential oils Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Glycolic Acid, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Potassium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Amino Esters-1, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Lawsonia Inermis (Henna) Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Salicylic Acid, Corallina Officinalis Extract
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Gentle for kidsTeens: Teen-friendly
Purified Water, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Schizandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Trehalose, Allantoin, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Arginine, Lippia Citriodora Leaf Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Propanediol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Euphrasia Officinalis Extract, Sodium Phytate, Carbomer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Chemical sunscreen filter with limited pregnancy data: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Octocrylene. Not known to harm a pregnancy but not well studied, and absorbed into the bloodstream in FDA studies; mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) stay on the skin and are a lower-absorption choice (MotherToBaby, Matta et al. 2020).
Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Oxide (Ci 77947), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Octocrylene, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Lauryl PEG-10 Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone, Caprylyl Methicone, Niacinamide, Phenyl Trimethicone, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract* (1000Ppm), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Soymilk, Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Magnesium Sulfate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, Sorbitan Isostearate, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate, Glyceryl Tribehenate/Isostearate/Eicosandioate, Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Glucose, Glyceryl Caprylate, Butylene Glycol, Fructooligosaccharides, Fructose, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance(Parfum)
Sensitive skin: fragrance, essential oils, niacinamide Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2.0%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2.0%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Bentonite, Coco-Caprylate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20 Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sodium Metabisulfite, Tocopherol, Sodium Hydroxide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyacrylamide, Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Succinic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Allantoin, Laureth-7, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (0.5%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (0.5%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Sd Alcohol 40-B, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, PVP, Dimethicone, Polysorbate 20, Citrulline, Squalane, Lactic Acid, Succinic Acid, Polyacrylamide, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2.0%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2.0%), Sucrose, Squalane, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Silica Cetyl Silylate, Sucrose, Squalane, Polyacrylamide, Water/Aqua/Eau, Caprylyl Glycol, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2.0%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2.0%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Sd Alcohol 40-B, Propanediol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Glycerin, Sucrose, Citrulline, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Urea, Panthenol, Lactic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Succinic Acid, Alcohol, Polysorbate 20
Sensitive skin: essential oils, alcohol denat. Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Not for kidsTeens: Use with care
Retinoid (vitamin A derivative): Retinol. Topical retinoids are generally recommended to be avoided in pregnancy; oral retinoids are known to cause birth defects (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Mayo Clinic).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (0.5%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (0.5%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Sd Alcohol 40-B, Glycerin, Dicaprylyl Ether, Niacinamide, Citrulline, Arginine, Methyl Gluceth-20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinol, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat., niacinamide Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2.0%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2.0%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Propanediol, Glycerin, Ethoxydiglycol, Disteareth-75 Ipdi, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Palmitate, Lactobacillus Ferment, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Polysilicone-11, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Squalane, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Morinda Citrifolia Extract, Isohexadecane, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Poria Cocos Extract, Sucrose, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Citric Acid, Sorbitan Oleate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Polylysine
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2.0%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2.0%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Sd Alcohol 40-B, Dimethyl MEA, Phenoxyethanol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Disodium EDTA, Glycerin, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Lactic Acid, Acetyl Tyrosine, Succinic Acid, Citrulline, Butylene Glycol, Copper Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrapeptide-21
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Alcohol Denat, Dimethyl Mea, Tetrapeptide-21, Zinc Gluconate, Magnesium Aspartate, Acetyl Tyrosine, Salicylic Acid, Copper Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid, Fragrance/Parfum, Limonene, Linalool
Sensitive skin: fragrance, alcohol denat. Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Betaine Salicylate, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Essential oil often flagged in pregnancy: Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil. NHS maternity guidance says not to use clary sage before 37 weeks, and European regulators say not to use rosemary oil medicines in pregnancy. That advice isn't about the small amounts in skincare, and evidence of harm is limited.
Water, Glycerin, Quaternium-60, Propylene Glycol, Cellulose, Carbomer, Polysorbate 80, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Allantoin, Panthenol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol, Charcoal Powder, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Tabebuia Impetiginosa Bark Extract, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Extract, Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extra ct, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycolic Acid, Gluconolactone, Betaine Salicylate, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
Sensitive skin: essential oils, niacinamide Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Fragrance ingredient banned in the EU (Lilial): Butylphenyl Methylpropional. The EU banned butylphenyl methylpropional from cosmetics in March 2022 and classifies it as toxic to reproduction: it may impair fertility and is suspected of harming an unborn child. Older formulas and products sold elsewhere may still list it (EU Regulation 2021/1902).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Chemical sunscreen filter with limited pregnancy data: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate. Not known to harm a pregnancy but not well studied, and absorbed into the bloodstream in FDA studies; mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) stay on the skin and are a lower-absorption choice (MotherToBaby, Matta et al. 2020).
Salicylic Acid (2%), Allantoin, BHT, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citric Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Fragrance/Parfum, Lauryl Glucoside, Limonene, Linalool, Panthenol, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Tocopherol, Water
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Not for kidsTeens: Use with care
Retinoid (vitamin A derivative): Retinol. Topical retinoids are generally recommended to be avoided in pregnancy; oral retinoids are known to cause birth defects (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Mayo Clinic).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Isononyl Isononanoate, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, C9-12 Alkane, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Caprylyl Methicone, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Hydroxide, PEG-75 100 Stearate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Silica, Mg Stearate+, PEG, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Citric Acid, Lecithin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sodium Phytate, Phospholipids, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Squalane, Sodium Benzoate, Alcohol, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Sorbate, Polysorbate 60, T-Butyl Alcohol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Mel Extract/Honey Extract/Extrait De Miel, Potassium Phosphate, Pantothenic Acid, Sorbitan Isostearate, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid 2.0%. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid 2.0%, Water/Aqua/Eau, Dimethicone, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Jojoba Esters, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Panthenol, Polysilicone-11, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Trametes Versicolor (Mushroom) Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ceteareth-20, Isohexadecane, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax, Polyglycerin-3, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 60, Sodium PCA, Sodium Citrate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Maclura Cochinchinensis Leaf Prenylflavonoids, T-Butyl Alcohol, Glycosaminoglycans, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Trisodium EDTA
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Not for kidsTeens: Use with care
Retinoid (vitamin A derivative): Retinyl Palmitate. Topical retinoids are generally recommended to be avoided in pregnancy; oral retinoids are known to cause birth defects (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Mayo Clinic).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2%), Alcohol Denat, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Arginine, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, BHT, Butylene Glycol, Butylparaben, Citric Acid, Cyclopentasiloxane, Denatonium Benzoate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Disodium Phosphate, Ethylparaben, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Glyoxal, Helianthus Annuus(Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Isobutylparaben, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 60, Potassium Sorbate, Propylene Glycol, Propylparaben, Retinyl Palmitate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Nitrate, Sodium Phosphate, T-Butyl Alcohol, Water/Aqua/Eau
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Lauryl Glucoside, Propylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Quercus Alba Bark Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Arginine, Tilia Cordata Flower Extract, Allantoin, BHT, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Amyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Fragrance/Parfum, Red 40 (Ci 16035), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140)
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, C13-16 Isoparaffin, Polysorbate 80, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Oil, Citrus Junos Peel Oil, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Water/Aqua/Eau, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprylate/Caprate, Fragrance/Parfum
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Not for kidsTeens: Use with care
Retinoid (vitamin A derivative): Retinyl Palmitate. Topical retinoids are generally recommended to be avoided in pregnancy; oral retinoids are known to cause birth defects (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Mayo Clinic).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid, Sodium Salicylate. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Chemical sunscreen filter with limited pregnancy data: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Salicylate. Not known to harm a pregnancy but not well studied, and absorbed into the bloodstream in FDA studies; mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) stay on the skin and are a lower-absorption choice (MotherToBaby, Matta et al. 2020).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Sinorhizobium Meliloti Ferment Filtrate, Alcohol Denat, Cyclopentasiloxane, Citrus Aurantium, Squalene, Dimethicone, Silica, Isopropyl Myristate, Isododecane, Caffeine, Carbomer, Croton Lechleri Resin Extract, Cecropia Obtusifolia Bark Extract, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Fraxinus Excelsior Bark Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract, Pseudoalteromonas Exopolysaccharides, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Angelica Polymorpha Sinensis Root Extract, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract, Rabdosia Rubescens Extract, Oligopeptide-68, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Phospholipids, Acetyl Glucosamine, Hydroxyproline, PEG-12 Glyceryl Dimyristate, Glycosphingolipids, Sodium Hyaluronate, Alcohol, Betaine, Glucosamine Hcl, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Lecithin, Silanetriol, L-Pyroglutamylamidoethyl Indole, Steareth-20, N-Hydroxysuccinimide, Chrysin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Oleate, Disodium EDTA, Diglycerin, Decarboxy Carnosine Hcl, Polysilicone-11, Polyurethane-40, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Sodium Metabisulfite, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Potassium Sorbate, Quaternium-15, Sorbic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Potassium Citrate, Glycolic Acid, EDTA, Citric Acid, Sodium Salicylate, Hexylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carmine (Ci 75470), Mica
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat., niacinamide Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Fragrance ingredient banned in the EU (Lilial): Butylphenyl Methylpropional. The EU banned butylphenyl methylpropional from cosmetics in March 2022 and classifies it as toxic to reproduction: it may impair fertility and is suspected of harming an unborn child. Older formulas and products sold elsewhere may still list it (EU Regulation 2021/1902).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2%), Alcohol Denat, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Amyl Cinnamal, Arginine, Benzoic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Butylparaben, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Citric Acid, Citronellol, Ethylparaben, Fragrance/Parfum, Geraniol, Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Isobutylparaben, Limonene, Linalool, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Propylparaben, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Symphytum Officinale Root Extract, Triethanolamine, Water/Aqua/Eau
Sensitive skin: fragrance, alcohol denat. Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Not for kidsTeens: Use with care
Retinoid (vitamin A derivative): Retinyl Palmitate. Topical retinoids are generally recommended to be avoided in pregnancy; oral retinoids are known to cause birth defects (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Mayo Clinic).
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lactate, Phytic Acid, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Salicylic Acid, Threonine, Glutamic Acid, Serine, Aspartic Acid, Arginine, Alanine, Proline, Valine, Histidine, Glycine, Lysine, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Extract, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Aminobutyric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Leucine, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Limonene, Benzoic Acid, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Isoleucine, Citric Acid, Octyldodecanol, Silica, Sodium Propoxyhydroxypropyl Thiosulfate Silica
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lactate, Ethoxydiglycol, Phytic Acid, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Salicylic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aminobutyric Acid, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Glycine, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Aspartic Acid, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Benzoic Acid, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Proline, Valine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Salicylic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Allantoin, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Bisabolol, Phragmites Communis Extract, Poria Cocos Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil, Sorbitan Laurate, Sodium Glycolate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Citrate, Decyl Glucoside, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbeth-230 Tetraoleate, FD&C Blue No. 1/Ci 42090, Fragrance/Parfum, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water/Aqua/Eau, Gluconolactone, Isopentyldiol, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Lactic Acid, Ethoxydiglycol, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Lecithin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Sulfur (10%), Water/Aqua/Eau, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Bentonite, Kaolin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Fragrance/Parfum, Citric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsSkin quiz · 4 questions
Working on more than one thing?
The skin quiz matches ingredients and products to up to three concerns at once, for the age and skin type.
- 1. Face, body, or hair
- 2. Age
- 3. What to fix
- 4. Skin type