Wondering if you should keep that appointment for a facial now that you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant? It's a good question. What to Expect When You're Expecting author Heidi Murkoff has the answer.

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Key Takeaways
  • Yes, you can still get a facial — you just need to be choosy. Most pregnancy-safe facials are totally fine, but anything with retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, electric stimulation, or injectables like Botox is a no-go while you’re pregnant or trying to conceive.
  • Choose gentle options. Hydrating, collagen, oxygen, steam, LED, and fruit-acid facials are generally considered safe. When it comes to lasers or microdermabrasion, check in with your health practitioner first — opinions vary, and you'll want to err on the cautious side.
  • If you’re trying to conceive, acne meds matter. Prescription treatments like Accutane or Retin-A need to be stopped at least a month before you start trying.

"Is it safe to get a facial when you're pregnant or trying to conceive? What about other skin treatments?"

If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive and aren't sure if your beauty and skin regimens are still safe, it's great that you're thinking twice.

Luckily, you don't have to steer clear of treating yourself to facials altogether. Most topical products and treatments are considered safe during pregnancy. That said, there are some indulgences that you'll need to avoid when you're expecting:

Also check with your practitioner before booking a laser treatment or microdermabrasion facial. Some experts say they're off-limits during pregnancy, while others say they're safe in some cases.

"Where I go offers a momma-to-be a specific facial (avoiding certain ingredients), and body pillows are used once you hit 28 weeks so you aren't on your back," says What to Expect Community mom christinabean34.

Safer facial options during pregnancy include:

  • Hydrating facials
  • Collagen facials
  • Oxygen facials
  • Steam facials
  • LED facials
  • Facials that feature fruit acid peels and extractions

"I got facials during pregnancy!" says What to Expect Community mom hazelgirl11. "I just never got any of the fancy stuff, and I did tell her I was pregnant before starting. I just got a basic facial with a lot of masks and extractions."

If you're thinking about getting pregnant and are currently using any acne medications — such as Accutane or Retin-A — you'll need to stop at least a month before you actively try to conceive. Since conception timing isn't always predictable, stopping early helps reduce any potential risk.

"I got one [facial] last week!" says What to Expect Community member dairyQueenlover. "I've struggled with acne this pregnancy and I feel like it helped clear it up a bit!"

Luckily, there are steps you can take to tame breakouts naturally — including drinking plenty of water, keeping your face clean, and using an oil-free moisturizer. Over-drying your skin can actually make acne worse — adult acne usually responds better to a softer approach.

Your diet plays an important role too. Foods high in essential fatty acids, vitamin C, folic acid, iron, niacin, and vitamin A support healthy skin. Just don't take extra vitamins or supplements beyond your prenatal vitamin without the okay of your doctor. Some nutrients, like vitamin A, can be harmful to your baby in high doses.

Treating yourself to a skin treatment is still on the table — just choose options that are safe for you and your baby, and loop in your practitioner if you have any questions.

Get more expert guidance as well as daily tips throughout your pregnancy on our What to Expect app.

Enjoy!


Heidi Murkoff