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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).
Isopropyl Alcohol, Aqua (Water, Eau), Zinc Oxide, Calamine, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, Talc, Menthyl Pca, Ethylcellulose, Chlorhexidine Diundecylenate, Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide)
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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Acrylates Copolymer, Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Piper Methysticum Root Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polysorbate 80
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
Aqua (Water, Eau), Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Allantoin, Betaine, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Disodium EDTA, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Sodium Citrate, Ascorbic Acid, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate
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. 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 (Water, Eau), Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Zinc Pca, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Salicylic Acid, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Disodium EDTA, Xylitylglucoside, Xanthan Gum, Anhydroxylitol, Laureth-7, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Sodium Chloride, Xylitol, Glucose, Sodium Hyaluronate
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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Butylene Glycol, Betaine, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Codium Tomentosum Extract, Ecklonia Cava Extract, Gelidium Cartilagineum Extract, Hizikia Fusiforme Extract, Phenoxyethanol
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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Alcohol Denat, Betaine, Glycerin, Inulin, Phenoxyethanol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Salicylic Acid, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Allantoin, Fructose, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid
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).
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf 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: 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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Butylene Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid, Propanediol, Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium EDTA, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Isopropyl Palmitate, Alcohol Denat, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Decyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, PEG-100 Stearate, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Inulin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Allantoin, Betaine, Fructose, Ci 42090 (Blue 1)
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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Alcohol Denat, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Betaine, Inulin, Phenoxyethanol, Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Allantoin, Fructose, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid
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).
Aqua (Water/Eau), Urea, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Myristyl Myristate, PEG-100 Stearate, Niacinamide, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Salicylic Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Squalane, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Polysorbate 60, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Ceramide AP, Phytosphingosine, Carbomer, Ceramide EOP
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
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. 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 (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Polysorbate 20, Hamamelis Virginiana Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Alcohol Denat, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Alcohol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Hydroxycitronellal, Eugenol
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
Aqua (Water, Eau), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Polysorbate 20, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Linalool, Limonene, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Citronellol, Ci 19140 (Yellow 5), Ci 42090 (Blue 1)
Sensitive skin: fragrance, essential oils 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.
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
Aqua, Propanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf 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).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Propanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolic Acid, Malic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Phytic Acid, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Citric Acid
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).
Aqua (Water), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Zinc Pca, Menthyl Pca, Sodium Polyglutamate, Phosphatidylcholine, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Tocopherol, Phytic Acid, Beta-Sitosterol, Squalene, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydroxyacetophenone, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Parfum (Fragrance)
Sensitive skin: fragrance, 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.
- 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. 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: Octinoxate (7%), Octocrylene (1%). 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).
Octinoxate (7%), Octocrylene (1%), Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Talc, Phenyl Trimethicone, Magnesium Sulfate, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Aluminum Dimyristate, Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract, BHT, Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Kaolin, Lactic Acid, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Nylon-12, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sorbitol, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Tocopherol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Salicylic Acid, Fragrance, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides
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: Teen-friendly
Water, Sodium Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Propanediol, Bis-PEG-19 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Silica, Microcrystalline Cellulose, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polysorbate 20, Bentonite, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Charcoal Powder, Fragrance, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Extract, Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Lavender Extract, 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 ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Betaine Salicylate, 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, Sodium Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Methylpropanediol, Charcoal Powder, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Silica, Polysorbate 20, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Lactose, Bentonite, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Cellulose, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Diospyros Kaki (Persimmon) Leaf Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum (Japanese Knotweed) Root Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract, Zanthoxylum Schinifolium Leaf Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Aloe Ferox (Cape Aloe) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Jojoba Esters, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Red 30 (CI 73360), Fragrance
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).
WATER, PEG-8, ALCOHOL, CELLULOSE, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, QUATERNIUM-60, CARBOMER, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, ALLANTOIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCOLIC ACID, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM ROOT EXTRACT, SCUTELLARIA, BAICALENSIS ROOT EXTRACT, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, GLUCONOLACTONE, GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT, EXTRACT, SALICYLIC ACID, SODIUM HYALURONATE, LACTIC ACID, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER EXTRACT, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT, CARICA PAPAYA (PAPAYA) FRUIT EXTRACT, MORINGA OLEIFERA SEED, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, DISODIUM EDTA, FRAGRANCE
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. 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, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine Salicylate, Glycolic Acid, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Alcohol Denat, Potassium Hydroxide, Panthenol, Allantoin, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Salicornia Herbacea Extract, Phragmites Communis Extract, Caffeoyl sh-Octapeptide-4, Oligopeptide-28, Oligopeptide-29, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract
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: 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).
Glycerin, Sucrose, Butylene Glycol, Water, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Polyisobutene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Protease, Caprylyl Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Tropolone, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Honey Extract, Lactobacillus/Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Ferment Filtrate, Glycolipids, Tromethamine, Benzyl Glycol, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Limonene, Linalool
Sensitive skin: fragrance, essential oils 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.
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
Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Niacinamide, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Silica, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Resveratrol, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Castanea Crenata Shell Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran extract, Volcanic Ash Extract, Zinc Oxide, Kaolin, Betaine, Allantoin, Sodium Chloride, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Panthenol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trideceth-9, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance
Sensitive skin: fragrance, 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.
- 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: 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).
Sodium Hyaluronate, Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Xylitol, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Propanediol, Alcohol Denat, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Zinc Sulfate, Retinyl Palmitate, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
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: Gentle for kidsTeens: Teen-friendly
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Xanthan Gum, Allantoin, Cynanchum Atratum Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Adenos ine, Bakuchiol, Dimethicone, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Disodium EDTA, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Viola Tricolor Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Benzyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin
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: Use with care
Kaolin, Sea Silt, Sodium Bicarbonate, Charcoal Powder, Citric Acid, Cyclodextrin, Moroccan Lava Clay, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf 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: 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).
Chemical sunscreen filter with limited pregnancy data: Avobenzone (2.5%), Homosalate (8%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (2.2%). 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).
Avobenzone (2.5%), Homosalate (8%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (2.2%), Beeswax/Cera Alba/Cire D'Abeille, Hydrogenated Avocado Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Acacia Decurrens/Jojoba/ Sunflower Seed Wax Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Dimethicone, Fragrance/Parfum, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Dunaliella Salina Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Tribehenin, Sorbitan Isostearate
Sensitive skin: fragrance, essential oils 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.
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, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactic Acid, Gluconolactone, Glycolic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Phenyl Trimethicone, Propanediol, Bakuchiol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Niacinamide, Saccharomyces Ferment, Glucose, Papain, Arginine, Lauroyl Lysine, Salicylic Acid, Citronellyl Methylcrotonate, Fragrance/Parfum, Cetyl Alcohol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ceteareth-20, Xanthan Gum, Dextrin, Polydextrose, Amylopectin, Tocopherol, Sodium Phytate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Sensitive skin: fragrance, 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.
- 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
Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%), Water, Glycereth-18 Ethylhexanoate, Glycereth-18, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Octenidine Hcl, Fragrance, Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Myristyl Alcohol, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butyl Hydroxycyclohexane Carboxylate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Carbomer, Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate, Sorbitan Oleate, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polysorbate 80, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Pca, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Isohexadecane, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Decylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Propylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Citral, Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Mica, Tin Oxide, Blue 1 (Ci 42090), Red 33 (Ci 17200), Violet 2 (Ci 60725)
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
Benzoyl Peroxide (5%), Water, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Glycerin, Jojoba Esters, Sodium Glycolate, Carbomer, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Laureth-7, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
(10%)Sulfur, Water, Kaolin, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Butylene Glycol, Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Phaeodactylum Tricornutum Extract, Algin, Naringenin, Simethicone, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Crosspolymer, Acrylates Copolymer, Mannitol, Silica, Xanthan Gum, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Panthenyl Triacetate, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Polysorbate 20, Ultramarines (Ci 77007), 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, T-Butyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Barium Sulfate, Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Red 30 (Ci 73360), Ultramarines (Ci 77007)
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
Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%), Water, Ethoxydiglycol, Glycerin, Polyacrylamide, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Allantoin, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Yucca Glauca Root Extract, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, Fragrance (Parfum), Biosaccharide Gum-1, Disodium Cocamido Mipa-Sulfosuccinate, Carbomer, Cholesterol, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Corn Starch Modified, Phytosphingosine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Xanthan Gum, Laureth-7, Aminomethyl Propanol, Disodium Oleamido Mea-Sulfosuccinate, C13-14 Isoparaffin, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool
Sensitive skin: fragrance, 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.
- 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 (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, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Perlite, Lauryl Glucoside, Colloidal Sulfur, Glycerin, Potassium Cocoate, Cetyl Alcohol, Distearyl Phthalic Acid Amide, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Acrylates Copolymer, Propanediol, Myristic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Niacinamide, Coconut Acid, Lauric Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Fragrance (Parfum), Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Dextrin, Polydextrose, Amylopectin, Potassium Hydroxide, Propylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Red 33 (Ci 17200), Violet 2 (Ci 60725)
Sensitive skin: fragrance, 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.
- 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 (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, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Lauryl Glucoside, Colloidal Sulfur, Potassium Cocoate, Cetyl Alcohol, Distearyl Phthalic Acid Amide, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Acrylates Copolymer, Propanediol, Myristic Acid, Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Fragrance/Parfum, Sodium Isethionate, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Coconut Acid, Lauric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Ext. Violet 2 (Ci 60730), Red 33 (Ci 17200)
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).
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Behenate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Polysorbate 20, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Salicylic Acid, Tocopherol, Bee Venom, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Parfum (Fragrance), Jojoba Esters, Dipropylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Sodium Palmitoyl Proline, Aqua/Water/Eau, Nymphaea Alba (Water Lily) Flower Extract, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Acacia Decurrens Flower Extract, Hydroxycitronellal, Polyglycerin-3, Limonene, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Fruit Extract, Eugenol, Phenoxyethanol, 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 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).
Arbutin (releases hydroquinone in skin): Alpha-Arbutin. Can release small amounts of hydroquinone on the skin, and there's no human pregnancy data, so a 2022 review makes no recommendation yet (Putra et al. 2022, SCCS 2023).
Kojic acid: Kojic Acid. There's no human pregnancy data, so a 2022 review doesn't recommend it until more is known. Little is absorbed and animal studies report no harm, and the EU limits it to 1% (Putra et al. 2022, EU Regulation 2024/996).
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil), Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide Lye, D-Glucitol, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Oleate, Sulfur, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Eucalyptus Leaf Oil, Spruce Leaf Oil, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, Retinyl Palmitate, L-Glutathione, Alpha-Arbutin
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 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