How To Read an Ingredient Label When You're Pregnant #

Ingredient lists can look like another language. During pregnancy it becomes even more important to know what is in your products. Here are a few easy ways to read labels, understand what matters, and avoid overwhelm.

1. Start from the top #

Ingredients are listed in order of concentration. The first five usually make up most of the formula. If an ingredient you are worried about is near the bottom, its concentration is likely low. Keep this rule in mind when comparing two similar products.

2. Learn a handful of key names #

• Retinol, retinal, retinoate: all vitamin A derivatives to avoid for now.
• Salicylic acid: fine in low rinse-off form but avoid high strength leave-ons or peels. Read our deeper dive on retinol safety during pregnancy if you need a refresher on vitamin A.
• Bakuchiol: a popular retinol alternative that supports texture.
• Azelaic acid: pregnancy friendly for breakouts and pigmentation.
• Essential oils: can be irritating; look for fragrance free if you are sensitive.

Write these on a note in your phone so you can spot them quickly while shopping.

3. Watch for marketing distractions #

Words like "clean", "natural" or "organic" do not automatically equal pregnancy safe. Some natural extracts are powerful allergens, while some lab-made ingredients are extremely gentle. Always flip to the INCI list.

4. Check supporting claims #

Look for statements like "dermatologist tested" or "fragrance free" to get a feel for the product. If something sounds vague, scan it with MamaSkin to verify. We will surface regulatory notes and known safety considerations.

5. Use a reliable checker #

MamaSkin exists for this reason. You can photograph an ingredient label, paste a list, or search a product to see if it contains anything with known pregnancy concerns. Mia explains every flag in plain English.

6. Compare batch codes #

Some brands tweak formulas for different regions or retailers. When you scan a label, note the batch code or shade name. If you see a mismatch later, re-scan to ensure nothing changed.

7. Keep perspective #

Most skincare ingredients are gentle and widely used. The goal is clarity, not anxiety. Understanding labels is about confidence, not fear. If you ever feel unsure, bring the product and your MamaSkin scan summary to your healthcare professional for personalised advice.

8. Decode tricky ingredient names #

• Dimethicone: a silicone that locks in moisture, safe and soothing.
• Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES): a gentler surfactant than SLS, often fine in cleansers.
• Parfum / fragrance: an umbrella term. If you are sensitive, choose fragrance free instead.
• Phenoxyethanol: a common preservative. Low levels (below 1 percent) are considered safe during pregnancy.
• Benzoyl peroxide: acceptable in spot treatments at low percentages but avoid all-over use without medical advice.

9. Spot red flags fast #

• Ingredients ending in "retinol", "retinal", "retinoate".
• "Hydroquinone" or "arbutin" in high concentrations.
• "Salicylic acid" or "betaine salicylate" above 2 percent.
• Strong essential oils (such as clove or cinnamon) high on the list.

Label reading checklist #

• Flip the product to find the INCI list.
• Identify the first five ingredients.
• Scan the list with MamaSkin to highlight any watchlist items.
• Note the texture (gel, cream, oil) and how often you plan to use it.
• Patch test the product before adding it fully to your routine.
• Log the product in MamaSkin so you remember when you opened it and when it expires.

Bonus: online shopping hacks #

• Copy ingredient lists from retailer descriptions into MamaSkin before you add to cart.
• Screenshot app listings in case they change after purchase.
• Read reviews looking for mentions of "new formula" or "now includes..." so you can double-check.

Work with your care team #

• Bring a list of products (or your phone with MamaSkin scans) to appointments.
• Ask your midwife or dermatologist which ingredients they would personally avoid; add them to your "watch" list.
• If you receive a prescription, log it in the app so Mia does not suggest conflicting actives.

Need help building the rest of your routine after scanning labels? Jump to our ultimate pregnancy-safe skincare guide or bookmark the safe swap cheat sheet.

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