Best Pregnancy Safe Toner (Updated 2026 Guide)
Updated April 13, 2026
The Answer
Most toners require caution during pregnancy. Of 65 products analyzed, only 2 received an A grade. Look for simple formulas without phenoxyethanol, salicylic acid, or synthetic fragrance, and consider witch hazel based options.
Facial toners often contain preservatives and active ingredients that warrant caution during pregnancy. Many popular toners include phenoxyethanol, which has FDA warnings related to central nervous system effects, and salicylic acid, which is safe at low concentrations but concerning at higher levels. Choosing fragrance free formulas with minimal active ingredients helps reduce unnecessary exposure.
Pregnancy Safe is 100% independent and research driven. No companies pay to promote or sponsor products.
✓ What's Safe
- • Witch hazel based formulas with minimal additives
- • Fragrance free and parfum free products
- • Simple ingredient lists with recognizable components
- • Alcohol free formulas to avoid skin irritation
- • Hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid
- • Products labeled for sensitive skin
✗ What to Avoid
- • Phenoxyethanol - a preservative with FDA warnings for nursing products due to central nervous system effects
- • Salicylic acid above 2% - high concentrations can cause aspirin like effects in late pregnancy
- • Fragrance/Parfum - may contain phthalates linked to preterm birth and neurodevelopmental effects
- • Sodium benzoate - has shown birth defects in animal studies at high doses
- • Methylparaben - associated with preterm birth and altered thyroid hormones in some studies
- • Panax ginseng root extract - may affect embryonic development and has anticoagulant effects
Most Common Ingredients in Toner Products
We analyzed 65 toner products. Here are the most common ingredients, ranked by how often they appear:
Ingredients to Watch Out For in Toner
These are the most common flagged ingredients across 65 toner products we analyzed.
phenoxyethanol
CAUTION
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products. Has FDA warnings for nursing products due to central nervous system effects. A common preservative that has FDA warnings specifically for nursing products due to potential central nervous system effects. Found in the majority of toners, making it difficult to avoid without careful label reading.
Found in 43 of 65 products (66%)
sodium benzoate
CAUTION
Sodium benzoate is a food preservative in beverages and processed foods. Has shown birth defects in animal studies at high doses and may form benzene when combined with vitamin C. A preservative that has shown birth defects in animal studies at high doses. May form benzene when combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), though cosmetic exposure levels are typically low.
Found in 22 of 65 products (34%)
salicylic acid
CAUTION
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid for acne treatment. Is safe at 2% or less but high concentrations can cause aspirin like effects in late pregnancy. A beta hydroxy acid used for acne treatment. Safe at concentrations of 2% or less in topical products, but high doses can cause aspirin like effects in late pregnancy. Check concentration levels on product labels.
Found in 17 of 65 products (26%)
fragrance
CAUTION
Fragrance is a mixture of aromatic chemicals in scented products. Contains phthalates linked to preterm birth and neurodevelopmental effects in children. An umbrella term that can hide dozens of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates. Phthalates have been linked to preterm birth and neurodevelopmental effects in children. Choose fragrance free products when possible.
Found in 11 of 65 products (17%)
fructose
CAUTION
Fructose is a simple sugar found naturally in fruits and added to many processed foods and beverages as high fructose corn syrup. May program offspring for metabolic dysfunction when consumed in excess during pregnancy, with animal studies showing effects on insulin resistance, blood pressure, and neurodevelopment. A sugar sometimes used in skincare formulations. While topical exposure is minimal concern, excessive dietary fructose during pregnancy may affect offspring metabolic health according to animal studies.
Found in 7 of 65 products (11%)
benzoic acid
CAUTION
Benzoic acid is a food preservative in beverages and processed foods. Has shown birth defects in animal studies at high doses and may form benzene when combined with vitamin C. Related to sodium benzoate with similar concerns. Has shown birth defects in animal studies at high doses and may form benzene when combined with vitamin C.
Found in 6 of 65 products (9%)
methylparaben
CAUTION
Methylparaben is a synthetic preservative with estrogenic activity. Is associated with preterm birth and altered thyroid hormones in some studies. A synthetic preservative with weak estrogenic activity. Some studies associate it with preterm birth and altered thyroid hormones, though evidence is not conclusive. Many brands now offer paraben free alternatives.
Found in 6 of 65 products (9%)
parfum
CAUTION
Parfum is a mixture of aromatic chemicals in scented products. Contains phthalates linked to preterm birth and neurodevelopmental effects in children. The French term for fragrance, with identical concerns. May contain undisclosed phthalates linked to preterm birth and neurodevelopmental effects. Treat parfum and fragrance as equivalent when reading labels.
Found in 6 of 65 products (9%)
How Do Toner Products Stack Up?
We graded 65 toner products for pregnancy safety. 2 received an A grade.
Best Pregnancy Safe Toner
We found 2 pregnancy safe options. Here are some top picks.
| Grade | Product | Brand |
|---|---|---|
| A | Dickinson'S Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner 16 Fl Oz | Dickinson'S |
| A | Glycolic Acid (Aha) Toner | My In.Gredients |
Toner to Avoid During Pregnancy
These popular products received low grades due to flagged ingredients.
| Grade | Product | Brand |
|---|---|---|
| D+ | Thayers Hydrating Milky Toner 8.5 Oz | Thayers |
| F | Squalane + 2% Bha Pore Minimizing Toner | Biossance |
| D+ | Alcohol Free Toner | Neutrogena |
| F | Andalou Naturals Clear Skin Pure Pore Toner - 6 Fl Oz | Andalou Naturals |
| D+ | Thayers Natural Remedies 2% Aha Exfoliating Toner - 12 Fl Oz | Thayers Natural Remedies |
Your Questions Answered
Is toner safe during pregnancy?
Toner can be safe during pregnancy if you choose products with pregnancy friendly ingredients. The key is avoiding certain active ingredients and preservatives that may pose risks. Look for simple, fragrance free formulas based on witch hazel or gentle hydrating ingredients. Of 65 toners we analyzed, only 2 received an A grade for pregnancy safety, so ingredient checking is essential.
What ingredients should I avoid in toner?
The main ingredients to avoid in toners during pregnancy include phenoxyethanol (a preservative with FDA warnings), high concentration salicylic acid (above 2%), synthetic fragrance or parfum (which may contain phthalates), sodium benzoate, methylparaben, and panax ginseng extract. These ingredients have varying levels of concern, from potential hormone disruption to effects on fetal development. Always check the full ingredient list before purchasing.
Which facial toner ingredients are risky during pregnancy?
Several common toner ingredients carry pregnancy risks. Phenoxyethanol, found in 43 of 65 toners we analyzed, has FDA warnings related to central nervous system effects. Salicylic acid is safe at 2% or less but concerning at higher concentrations. Synthetic fragrance may contain undisclosed phthalates linked to preterm birth. Parabens like methylparaben have been associated with altered thyroid hormones. Checking ingredient lists is crucial since many popular brands contain these compounds.
What are safe facial toners to use during pregnancy?
Safe facial toners during pregnancy typically feature simple, minimal ingredient lists. Witch hazel based toners like Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner received an A grade in our analysis. Look for products that are fragrance free, paraben free, and avoid high concentrations of active acids. Hydrating toners with glycerin and hyaluronic acid are generally well tolerated. When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider about specific products.
Is glycolic acid toner safe during pregnancy?
Glycolic acid toners are generally considered safe during pregnancy when used in low concentrations typical of over the counter products. Unlike salicylic acid, glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is not systemically absorbed in significant amounts. However, pregnancy can make skin more sensitive, so starting with lower concentrations and less frequent use is advisable. If you have concerns, discuss with your dermatologist or OB GYN.
Can I use salicylic acid toner while pregnant?
Low concentration salicylic acid (2% or less) in toners is generally considered safe during pregnancy according to most dermatologists. The concern arises with high dose oral salicylates, which are chemically related to aspirin and can cause complications in late pregnancy. Topical application of low percentage salicylic acid results in minimal systemic absorption. However, if you want to be extra cautious, switch to glycolic acid or lactic acid alternatives during pregnancy.
How Do We Score Products for Pregnancy Safety?
We analyze each product's ingredients and category to flag known risks and provide cautionary notices for general category safety concerns.
A - Safe
Excellent choice! All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy.
What to do: Use with confidence.
B - Likely Safe
Pretty much safe with very minimal risk. Some ingredients may have limited pregnancy studies, but no significant safety concerns have been identified.
What to do: Use with confidence.
C - Limit
Contains ingredients with some pregnancy considerations. Research shows these ingredients may have limited safety data, potential for minor hormonal effects, or require caution based on animal studies.
What to do: Use sparingly and consider safer alternatives when available.
D - Caution
Similar to C grade but contains multiple cautionary ingredients. The combination increases overall concern.
What to do: Try to avoid if that makes you feel better. If you've already used it, no need to panic.
F - Avoid
Contains ingredients with established risks during pregnancy. Research shows these can cause birth defects, developmental harm, or serious maternal complications.
What to do: Do not use during pregnancy. If you've already used it, don't worry - contact your OBGYN if concerned.
References
- https://www.babymamabrand.com/blogs/good to know/phenoxyethanol safety guide for moms and kids
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3556838/
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jmwh.13428
- https://blissoma.com/phenoxyethanol dangers phenoxyethanol safe what is phenoxyethanol in skincare
- https://motherfigure.com/safe skincare/phenoxyethanol/
- https://millionmarker.com/pages/pregnancy fertility chemical phenoxyethanol
- https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/83-112/default.html
- https://www.mustelausa.com/blogs/mustela mag/is phenoxyethanol safe for you and your newborn
- https://health.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-08/sccs_o_195_0.pdf
- https://nayaglow.com/blogs/news/avoid phenoxyethanol clean skincare
- https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/1206103
- https://www.zalinaswissorganic.com/blogs/clean beauty selfcare/the truth about phenoxyethanol a-hidden hazard in skincare
- https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health news/fda warns mothers about nipple cream flna1c9463497
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6985251/
- http://sfda.gov.sa/en/warnings/1156
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12598991/
- https://www.lorealdermatologicalbeauty.com/-/media/project/loreal/brand sites/acdpro/master/dmi/skinalliance/articles/phenoxyethanol/phenoxyethanol_execsummary.pdf?rev=a531ca2bc4b44982b6db701c83284d55
- https://terrellhogan.com/fda warns consumers against using mommys bliss nipple cream/
- https://series.publisso.de/sites/default/files/documents/series/mak/dam/Vol2019/Iss1/Alt006/mb12299kske6319_w.pdf
- https://vetmed.agriculturejournals.cz/pdfs/vet/2012/05/05.pdf
