Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser
Skin Care During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
A patient advice sheet — 9 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.
Last reviewed: July 2026
The advice
- Always tell your dermatologist that you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding before any prescription or procedure.
- Forbidden in pregnancy: Roaccutane (isotretinoin), all retinoid creams, hydroquinone, spironolactone, methotrexate, and tetracycline tablets (doxycycline) — tell us immediately if you conceive while using any of them.
- Generally allowed: azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide on limited areas, prescribed topical antibiotics, niacinamide, vitamin C, and moisturizers — with mineral sunscreen (zinc/titanium) as the best choice.
- Melasma is common in pregnancy: daily tinted mineral sunscreen and a hat; active treatment (lightening, peels, laser) waits until after delivery — much of it improves on its own.
- Elective cosmetic procedures (Botox, filler, laser, medium/deep peels) are postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Stretch marks: moisturize and avoid rapid weight gain; evidence for prevention creams is limited, and effective treatments start after delivery.
- Severe night itching of the palms and soles without a clear rash? Tell your obstetrician promptly (it can be cholestasis of pregnancy, needing a blood test).
- Post-partum hair shedding (2–4 months after delivery) is very normal and recovers by itself within 6–9 months, usually without treatment.
- While breastfeeding: most topical creams are safe except retinoids and hydroquinone; never leave a medicated cream on the nipple before a feed without washing it off.
See also the full treatment page: Melasma treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.
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