Is Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash Safe During Pregnancy? (Updated 2026 Guide)
Updated March 12, 2026
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
Dove Beauty
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash receives a C grade for pregnancy safety. While it contains many gentle, pregnancy safe cleansers like cocamidopropyl betaine and sodium lauroyl isethionate, it includes fragrance and sodium benzoate which warrant caution during pregnancy.
You can use this, but maybe don't make it your everyday go to. Not the end of the world if you've used it. Consult your OBGYN or midwife if you have concerns.
Pregnancy Safe is 100% independent and research driven. No companies pay to promote or sponsor products.
What Ingredients Are in Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash?
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash has 28 ingredients. We flagged 2 ingredients to use with caution.
fragrance parfim rycerin
CAUTION
Fragrance parfim rycerin is a mixture of aromatic chemicals in scented products. Undisclosed fragrance blend that may contain phthalates; use with caution during pregnancy.
sodium benzoate
CAUTION
Sodium benzoate is a food preservative in beverages and processed foods. Generally safe in small amounts, but minimize exposure during pregnancy as it may form benzene when combined with vitamin C.
palmitic acid
LIKELY SAFE
Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid found in palm oil, meat, dairy, and some cosmetics. A common fatty acid; elevated maternal blood levels have been associated with pregnancy complications, but topical exposure in cosmetics is not a concern.
sodium hydroxypropyl starch phosphate hiohogenated soybean oil
LIKELY SAFE
Sodium hydroxypropyl starch phosphate hiohogenated soybean oil is mineral compounds used as food additives for preservation and texture in processed foods and beverages. A plant derived emollient and texture agent; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
alpha isomethyl ionone
SAFE
Alpha isomethyl ionone is a synthetic fragrance compound commonly used for its floral, violet like scent in perfumes and cosmetic products. A synthetic fragrance compound with limited pregnancy specific data; considered low risk in typical cosmetic concentrations.
benzyl alcohol
SAFE
Benzyl alcohol is a colorless, aromatic alcohol commonly used as a preservative and solvent in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Generally considered safe in small amounts as an inactive ingredient in medications during pregnancy.
capryloyl
SAFE
A fatty acid derivative used as a gentle cleanser; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
citric acid
SAFE
Citric acid is a natural organic acid commonly used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in food and beverages. A natural preservative found in citrus fruits; safe during pregnancy.
citronellol
SAFE
Citronellol is a naturally occurring floral and citrus scented alcohol commonly used in perfumes and fragrances. A naturally occurring fragrance alcohol found in rose and citronella oils; considered safe in cosmetic concentrations during pregnancy.
cocamidopropyl betaine
SAFE
Cocamidopropyl betaine is a gentle, amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil, commonly used in personal care products for its foaming and cleansing properties. A gentle coconut derived surfactant widely used in baby products; safe for pregnancy use.
coumarin
SAFE
Coumarin is a naturally occurring aromatic compound known for its sweet, vanilla like scent and often used in flavorings and fragrances. A naturally occurring fragrance compound; safe in cosmetic concentrations though high oral doses should be avoided during pregnancy.
glycerine
SAFE
Glycerine is a clear, viscous liquid commonly used as a humectant and Moisturizer in skincare and cosmetic products. A hydrating humectant that draws moisture to skin; completely safe during pregnancy.
glyceryl stearate
SAFE
Glyceryl stearate is a moisturizing and emulsifying agent derived from glycerin and stearic acid, commonly used in skincare products to help blend oil and water based ingredients. A plant derived emulsifier that helps blend ingredients; safe for pregnancy skincare.
glycine soja oil
SAFE
Glycine soja oil is a nourishing, antioxidant rich oil derived from wild soybeans, commonly used in skincare for its moisturizing and skin soothing properties. Wild soybean oil is safe for external use during pregnancy and provides gentle skin nourishment.
guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride
SAFE
Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride is a conditioning agent derived from guar gum that helps improve hair manageability and smoothness. A plant derived conditioning agent; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
hexyl cinnamal
SAFE
Hexyl cinnamal is a synthetic aromatic compound commonly used as a fragrance ingredient to impart a sweet, floral, and jasmine like scent. A synthetic fragrance compound; limited pregnancy data but low concern in rinse off products at typical concentrations.
hydrogenated vegetable glycerides
SAFE
Hydrogenated vegetable glycerides are processed fats derived from vegetable oils, used as emulsifiers and stabilizers in food products. Plant derived emollients that soften skin; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
hydroxystearic acid
SAFE
Hydroxystearic acid is a naturally occurring or synthetic fatty acid derivative used in cosmetics and skincare products for its emollient and conditioning properties. A fatty acid derivative used as an emollient; no known pregnancy concerns for topical application.
lauric acid
SAFE
Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, known for its antimicrobial and skin conditioning properties. A coconut derived fatty acid with antimicrobial properties; safe for pregnancy skincare.
limonene
SAFE
Limonene is a naturally occurring citrus scented compound commonly used for its aromatic properties and potential health benefits. A citrus derived fragrance compound; safe in typical cosmetic concentrations during pregnancy.
linalool
SAFE
Linalool is a naturally occurring aromatic alcohol found in many flowers and spices, known for its floral, lavender like scent and calming properties. A naturally occurring floral fragrance compound considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
sodium chloride
SAFE
Sodium chloride is a common mineral known as table salt, used to enhance the flavor of food and as a preservative. Common salt used as a thickener; completely safe for topical use during pregnancy.
sodium gluconate
SAFE
Sodium gluconate is a water soluble, biodegradable compound used as a chelating agent, corrosion inhibitor, and food additive. A chelating agent that stabilizes formulas; safe for topical pregnancy use.
sodium lauroyl isethionate
SAFE
Sodium lauroyl isethionate is a gentle, sulfate free surfactant commonly used in cleansers and body washes to create a rich, foaming lather. A mild, coconut derived surfactant often used in baby products; safe during pregnancy.
sodium methyl lauroyl taurate
SAFE
Sodium methyl lauroyl taurate is a gentle surfactant and cleansing agent derived from amino acids and fatty acids, commonly used in skincare and personal care products. An amino acid based gentle cleanser; safe for use during pregnancy.
stearic acid
SAFE
Stearic acid is a naturally occurring saturated fatty acid commonly used as an emulsifier and thickening agent in cosmetics and skincare products. A fatty acid emulsifier that is safe for topical pregnancy use.
undecylenoyl glycine
SAFE
Undecylenoyl glycine is a skin conditioning agent known for its antimicrobial and anti inflammatory properties, often used to help reduce acne and regulate sebum production. An amino acid based antimicrobial that helps control odor; safe during pregnancy.
water
SAFE
Water is a clear, tasteless, and essential liquid that sustains all known forms of life. Essential for amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, and overall pregnancy health.
Answering Your Questions
How much Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash is safe during pregnancy?
Use a small amount (about a quarter sized dollop) per shower. The gentle surfactants create adequate lather without needing excessive product.
Can you use Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash daily while pregnant?
Safe for daily use as a body wash. Since it's a rinse off product, ingredient exposure is minimal, but those seeking extra caution may limit use to every other day.
Is Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash is generally safe while breastfeeding. The ingredients of concern (fragrance and sodium benzoate) are in a rinse off product with minimal skin absorption, posing negligible risk to nursing infants.
What are pregnancy safe alternatives to Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash?
For a higher rated alternative, look for fragrance free body washes with an A or B grade. Options include unscented castile soaps, fragrance free Cetaphil body wash, or pregnancy specific formulas like Luxe Mama Pregnancy Body Wash.
Why does Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash get a C grade?
The C grade reflects the presence of fragrance (which may contain undisclosed phthalates) and sodium benzoate (a preservative that can form benzene when combined with vitamin C). The majority of ingredients are safe, but these caution level ingredients prevent a higher rating.
Which body wash is safe during pregnancy?
Body washes rated A or B on pregnancy safety scales are ideal. Look for fragrance free, paraben free formulas with gentle surfactants. Pregnancy specific brands and unscented options from trusted brands like Cetaphil or Vanicream are good choices.
What ingredients should I avoid in body wash when pregnant?
Avoid retinoids, salicylic acid in high concentrations, chemical sunscreens, formaldehyde releasing preservatives, and undisclosed fragrance blends. Also be cautious of parabens and products with long lists of synthetic chemicals.
Is Dove body wash sulfate free and paraben free?
Yes, Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash is sulfate free and paraben free. It uses gentler surfactants like sodium lauroyl isethionate instead of harsh sulfates, making it suitable for sensitive and dry skin.
What Are Pregnancy Safe Alternatives to Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash?
Here are some solid alternatives. Everything below has an A or B grade, meaning no flagged ingredients in our database.
| Grade | Product | Brand | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Dermasil Labs /Moisturizing Body Wash | — | body wash |
| A | Aloe Scented Body Wash, Mild & Gentle - Super C | Super C | body wash |
| A | Manuka Honey & Oatmeal Smooth & Exfoliating Body Wash | Sheamoisture | body wash |
| A | Dove Invigorate Body Wash - Aloe & Eucalyptus Oil 24Hr Lotion-Soft Skin - 20 Fl Oz | Dove Beauty | body wash |
Are Other Dove Beauty Products Safe During Pregnancy?
We looked at 12 other Dove Beauty products. 1 are pregnancy safe (A or B grade), while 11 need a closer look.
| Grade | Product | Type |
|---|---|---|
| A | Dove Beauty Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Fragrance-Free Beauty Bar Soap | soap |
| D+ | Dove Beauty Antibacterial Body Wash Pump 24Hr Lotion-Soft Skin | body wash |
| C | Dove Beauty 0% Aluminum Cucumber & Green Tea Deodorant Stick - 2.6Oz | — |
| C- | Dove Beauty Advanced Care Hand Wash - Deep Moisture - Scented - 12 Fl Oz | hand wash |
How Does Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash Compare to Other Body Washes?
We graded 557 Body Washes for pregnancy safety. Here's how they stack up:
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash earns a C grade, placing it among the majority of Body Washes. Only 1% of products in this category get an A grade, so it pays to choose carefully.
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.
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References
- https://sensoriam.com/blogs/blog/can you wear perfume while pregnant
- https://www.thebump.com/a/perfume safe during pregnancy
- https://www.babymed.com/perfume during pregnancy
- https://www.matcanaturals.com/blogs/news/fragrances and pregnancy what you need to know
- https://bastilleparfums.com/en us/blogs/news/parfum et grossesse un danger pour les femmes enceintes
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9163252/
- https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy pregnancy/is it safe/perfume and pregnancy/
- https://oneseedperfumes.com/blogs/news/perfume and pregnancy why exposure to scent is critial to consider
- https://eshaivf.com/blogs/are your perfumes hurting your fertility/%20%20
- https://www.cleanconsciousbeauty.com/best pregnancy safe perfumes perfume for pregnant mother/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39079634/
- https://echochildren.org/research summaries/study finds link between phthalate exposure during pregnancy and development of multiple health outcomes in children/
- https://midatlanticwomenscare.com/ingredients in beauty products you should avoid during pregnancy/
- https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/phthalates exposure pregnancy loss gestational diabetes/
- https://www.marchofdimes.org/find support/blog/personal care products and cosmetic use during pregnancy
- https://tangieco.com/blog/dangers of synthetic fragrance and-6-studies to back it up/
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2794076
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40720074/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40327367/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40057226/
