Is It Safe to Use Body Scrub, Wash and Lotion During Pregnancy?

Your skin is extra-sensitive now that you’re pregnant, are we right? Body scrubs and exfoliants can actually cause micro-tears on your skin, which isn’t just irritating, it can also make it easier for chemicals to be absorbed into it. You’re better off using a loofah or soft washcloth to scrub away dead skin cells.

And there are ingredients in soaps and body washes to avoid: triclosan, parabens, fragrance and rosemary. Triclosan creates a carcinogen as a by-product. Parabens can affect hormone levels. Fragrance and rosemary could irritate your skin.

You should also try to stay away from lotion with aloe vera. In studies, it’s been linked to birth defects when taken orally. You’re not drinking the stuff, but remember, your skin does absorb what you put on it, so we think it’s not worth it.