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Permitted in OTC Strengths (<10%)
Can you use Glycolic Acid (AHA) during pregnancy?
⚠️Medical Deferral Notice
Permitted in standard OTC strengths under 10%. Defer high-concentration clinical peels. Cosmetic classifications are formulation flags to discuss with your healthcare provider, not medical clearance.
Clinical Summary
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid. Safe for facial application in standard OTC serums and cleansers under 10%.
Pharmacological Mechanism & Teratogenic Context
Glycolic acid functions by weakening calcium-dependent desmosomal adhesion between superficial stratum corneum cells. Systemic absorption is under 1% when applied to intact facial skin, and glycolic acid is a normal endogenous metabolite of human carbohydrate biochemistry. Professional deep chemical peels (>30%) should be deferred.
Common INCI Names on Packaging
Glycolic AcidHydroxyacetic Acid
Permitted Alternatives During Pregnancy
- ✓Lactic Acid (even gentler with humectant properties)
- ✓Azelaic Acid (cellular turnover plus redness relief)