Pregnancy & Skincare.
Finding out you are pregnant shouldn't require throwing out your entire bathroom shelf. We explain which ingredients are commonly advised against, which are commonly permitted, and what alternatives to use.
Mandatory Physician Deferral Notice
Miko provides cosmetic formulation information, not medical clearance. Every pregnancy is unique. Always confirm anything medical with your doctor or OB-GYN.
Ingredients Commonly Advised Against
Topical actives usually paused during gestation and lactation
Retinoids & Topical Vitamin A
Commonly PausedAll prescription and over-the-counter vitamin A derivatives are commonly advised against throughout pregnancy and lactation.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Concentration DependentHigh-strength clinical chemical peels (>2%) and body-wide applications should be avoided. Rinse-off facial cleansers under 2% carry very low systemic absorption.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Consult ObstetricianTopical preparations under 5% are frequently cleared by OB-GYNs for severe inflammatory acne, though cautious localized spot usage is favored.
Hydroquinone
Commonly PausedA potent skin lightener that carries unusually high systemic absorption (up to 45%) through the cutaneous barrier.
Dermatologist-Favored Alternatives
Gentle, non-systemic actives effective for gestational breakouts and hydration
Azelaic Acid
Permitted & Recommended AlternativeThe gold-standard active commonly recommended by dermatologists for managing pregnancy breakouts, rosacea, and melasma.
Hyaluronic Acid & Polyols
Permitted & EndogenousAn endogenous humectant sugar molecule essential for maintaining skin hydration without systemic absorption.
How Miko's Pregnancy Mode Works
Activate Pregnancy Mode in settings. The app immediately scans all formulations on your shelf.
Retinoids and high-potency BHAs grey out with a lock icon, preventing accidental morning or evening application.
Your weekly schedule rebuilds strictly around what remains. Zero affiliate product pushes.