Elara guides

Which beauty treatments are safe now

What's safe to keep, what to time differently, and what to skip.

Feeling good in your body matters in pregnancy, and most beauty routines can carry on with small tweaks. A few ingredients and treatments are worth pausing — usually out of caution rather than proven harm. Here's a clear sorting of keep, adjust and skip.

Generally fine

• Manicures and pedicures — well-ventilated salons are best for the fumes.
• Facials and most gentle skincare — cleansers, moisturisers, hyaluronic acid.
• Massage — after the first trimester, with a therapist trained in prenatal work.
• Hair removal — waxing, shaving, threading (skin can be more sensitive, so patch-test).

Time it differently

Hair colour and chemical treatments are considered low-risk because very little is absorbed, but many people wait until after the first trimester and choose highlights or ammonia-free formulas to limit scalp contact and fumes. Self-tan lotions are fine; spray tans are best skipped because of what you might inhale.

Best paused

• Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin) and high-dose salicylic acid — switch to pregnancy-safe alternatives like vitamin C, azelaic acid and gentle glycolic.
• Botox and fillers — not studied in pregnancy, so usually deferred.
• Saunas, hot tubs and very hot baths — overheating, especially early, isn't ideal.
• Teeth whitening — limited safety data, easy to postpone.

Your skin in pregnancy

Hormones can bring glow — or breakouts, melasma (dark patches) and extra sensitivity. Daily SPF genuinely helps with melasma. Keep routines simple, patch-test new products, and remember most changes settle after birth.

Ingredient advice evolves and varies by country. If you use prescription skincare or are unsure about a product, check the label with your provider or pharmacist.