AHAs and PHAs in Pregnancy: Glycolic, Lactic, Mandelic, and More #

Exfoliating acids can help with dullness and breakouts, but pregnancy skin can be more sensitive. The MamaSkin ingredient dataset places several AHAs and PHAs in the low-risk band when used at typical cosmetic strengths.

Why this category matters in pregnancy #

Exfoliating acids are common in glow and texture routines, but pregnancy skin often needs a slower pace because barrier changes can make acids sting and trigger redness. Exposure can rise with frequent leave-on use or multiple layers, while short-contact or rinse-off use generally lowers both irritation and absorption. Hormonal shifts can increase breakouts and pigmentation, which is why acids are tempting, yet they can also make skin more reactive. Guidance is generally cautious but often accepts low-strength topical use, while stronger peels are usually avoided, and many people choose extra caution early in pregnancy before reassessing with a clinician.

How these ingredients work and why they are popular #

AHAs and PHAs loosen the bonds between dead skin cells to smooth texture and brighten tone; PHAs tend to be larger molecules and are often gentler. They are popular in non-pregnant routines because they can deliver visible results for dullness and congestion when used consistently.

Where they appear and common misconceptions #

These acids appear in toners, serums, exfoliating pads, masks, and body lotions, so it is easy to use more than intended across a routine. Common misconceptions include assuming fruit-based acids are automatically gentle, that low percentages cannot irritate when used often, and that wash-off products remove all exposure; in practice, frequency, layering, and barrier health still matter.

Acid snapshot from our dataset #

• Glycolic acid (low risk): Low-strength use shows minimal absorption.
• Lactic acid (low risk): Endogenous AHA; irritation is the main concern at higher strengths.
• Mandelic acid (low risk): Larger molecule, slower penetration, often gentler.
• Gluconolactone (low risk): PHA with minimal irritation and low absorption.
• Phytic acid (low risk): Mild exfoliant and antioxidant; irritation is the main concern.

How to use acids during pregnancy #

• Choose lower strengths and use less often.
• Prefer short-contact masks or rinse-off formulas.
• Always follow with moisturiser and daily sunscreen.

When to pause #

• If you see stinging, redness, or barrier damage.
• When using multiple actives in the same routine.
• If you are planning in-office or at-home peels.

Read next #

• Is Glycolic Acid Safe During Pregnancy?
• Is Lactic Acid Safe During Pregnancy?
• Are PHA Exfoliants Safe During Pregnancy?

Build a gentle routine with MamaSkin #

• Scan exfoliants to check ingredient strength and band.
• Avoid combining multiple acids by accident.
• Save your trusted formulas for each trimester.

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