Is Avobenzone Safe During Pregnancy?
Avobenzone is a chemical UVA filter found in many sunscreens. In our MamaSkin ingredient library it is classified as medium risk due to limited pregnancy data and reported systemic absorption. For pregnancy, we generally recommend mineral sunscreens when possible.
Quick verdict
- Safe-leaning: mineral SPF using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Use with caution: chemical sunscreen blends that include avobenzone.
- Avoid: stacking multiple chemical filters if you are trying to minimise exposure.
Why avobenzone is flagged
Avobenzone is effective for UVA protection, but research on pregnancy exposure is limited. Because systemic absorption has been reported, we mark it as medium risk and suggest mineral options as the safer default.
Pregnancy-safe mineral sunscreen examples from our database
- Suntribe Natural Mineral Zinc Sun Stick SPF 30 (score 100) - zinc oxide stick.
- Suntribe Natural Mineral Face & Sport Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50 (score 100) - mineral sport formula.
- Hello Sunday The Mineral One SPF 50 Hydrating Serum (score 99) - hydrating mineral SPF.
- Garden of Wisdom Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Spray (score 99) - simple mineral spray.
- Functionalab Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (score 99) - tinted mineral option.
Ingredient watchlist from our library
- Avobenzone (medium risk): chemical UVA filter.
- Oxybenzone (medium risk): chemical UV filter with stronger warnings.
- Zinc oxide (no known risks): mineral filter preferred in pregnancy.
FAQs
- Can I use my current sunscreen if it has avobenzone? Use with caution, and consider switching to mineral.
- Is mineral SPF enough for daily use? Yes, mineral SPF provides broad protection when applied properly.
- What if a product has a mix of filters? Use the app to scan the full ingredient list and decide.
Read next
- Is Oxybenzone (BP-3) Safe During Pregnancy?
- Is Zinc Oxide Safe During Pregnancy?
- Is Vichy Safe During Pregnancy?
References
- FDA sunscreen overview: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
- ACOG on skin changes in pregnancy: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy
- DermNet NZ on skin changes in pregnancy: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/skin-changes-in-pregnancy
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FAQs
Is avobenzone safe during pregnancy?
Avobenzone is medium risk in our ingredient library. Mineral sunscreens are preferred.
Should I stop using sunscreen while pregnant?
No. Sun protection is important, but you can choose mineral filters instead.
What is a safer alternative to avobenzone?
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the most common low risk mineral filters.