Is undefined Safe During Pregnancy? (Updated 2026 Guide)
Updated March 12, 2026
The Ordinary
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 ?
has 45 ingredients. We flagged 3 ingredients to use with caution.
fructose
CAUTION
Fructose is a simple sugar found naturally in fruits and added to many processed foods and beverages as high fructose corn syrup.
phenoxyethanol
CAUTION
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products.
triethanolamine
CAUTION
Triethanolamine is a pH adjuster and emulsifier in cosmetics.
histidine
LIKELY SAFE
Histidine is an essential amino acid found in protein rich foods and available as a dietary supplement.
propanediol
LIKELY SAFE
Propanediol is a solvent and preservative in foods and cosmetics.
tocopherol
LIKELY SAFE
Tocopherol is a fat soluble antioxidant vitamin commonly found in prenatal supplements and vegetable oils. Vitamin E is safe in skincare during pregnancy; only high oral doses raise concerns.
alanine
SAFE
Alanine is a non essential amino acid that plays a key role in energy production and muscle metabolism.
allantoin
SAFE
Allantoin is a soothing compound known for its skin calming, moisturizing, and healing properties.
aqua
SAFE
Aqua is the scientific term for water, commonly used as a solvent and base ingredient in various cosmetic and skincare products.
arginine
SAFE
Arginine is a semi essential amino acid that plays a key role in nitric oxide production, supporting blood flow and immune function.
aspartic acid
SAFE
Aspartic acid is a non essential amino acid that plays a key role in protein synthesis and the functioning of the nervous system.
caprylic capric triglyceride
SAFE
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight, skin conditioning oil derived from coconut oil and glycerin that helps moisturize and improve the texture of the skin.
carbomer
SAFE
Carbomer is a synthetic, water soluble polymer used as a thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying agent in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.
cetyl alcohol
SAFE
Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol commonly used as an emollient, thickener, and emulsifier in skincare and cosmetic products.
chlorphenesin
SAFE
Chlorphenesin is a synthetic preservative and muscle relaxant commonly used in cosmetics and topical products to inhibit microbial growth.
citric acid
SAFE
Citric acid is a natural organic acid commonly used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in food and beverages.
glucose
SAFE
Glucose is a simple sugar that serves as a primary source of energy for the body's cells.
glycerin
SAFE
Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, and sweet tasting humectant commonly used in skincare products to attract and retain moisture in the skin.
glycine
SAFE
Glycine is a simple, non essential amino acid that plays a key role in protein synthesis and acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
isoceteth 20
SAFE
isoleucine
SAFE
Isoleucine is an essential amino acid that plays a key role in muscle repair, energy production, and immune function.
lecithin
SAFE
Lecithin is a natural phospholipid commonly used as an emulsifier to blend fats and liquids in food and pharmaceutical products.
linoleic acid
SAFE
Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 fatty acid commonly found in vegetable oils that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy cell membranes and skin health.
maltose
SAFE
Maltose is a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules, commonly used as a sweetener in brewing and confectionery.
oleic acid
SAFE
Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid commonly found in olive oil, known for its beneficial effects on heart health and skin nourishment.
palmitic acid stearic acid
SAFE
Palmitic acid and stearic acid are saturated fatty acids commonly found in animal fats and plant oils, used in cosmetics, soaps, and as emollients.
pca
SAFE
PCA (Principal Component Analysis) is a skincare ingredient known for its ability to regulate oil production, improve skin clarity, and reduce the appearance of pores.
pentylene glycol
SAFE
Pentylene glycol is a versatile, water soluble humectant and solvent commonly used in skincare and cosmetic formulations to hydrate the skin and enhance product stability.
phenylalanine
SAFE
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that serves as a building block for proteins and a precursor for neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.
phytosteryl canola glycerides
SAFE
Phytosteryl canola glycerides are plant derived compounds that help reduce cholesterol absorption and support heart health.
polysorbate 60
SAFE
Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier and surfactant commonly used in cosmetics and food products to help blend oil and water based ingredients.
proline
SAFE
Proline is a non essential amino acid characterized by its unique cyclic structure, playing a key role in protein stability and collagen synthesis.
serine
SAFE
Serine is a non essential amino acid involved in protein synthesis and metabolic processes, playing a key role in cell function and neurotransmitter production.
sodium chloride
SAFE
Sodium chloride is a common mineral known as table salt, used to enhance the flavor of food and as a preservative.
sodium hyaluronate
SAFE
Sodium hyaluronate is a powerful hydrating agent that helps retain moisture in the skin, promoting plumpness and elasticity.
sodium hydroxide
SAFE
Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic, white, solid compound commonly used as a strong base in cleaning, manufacturing, and chemical processes.
sodium lactate
SAFE
Sodium lactate is a salt derived from lactic acid that acts as a humectant, preservative, and pH stabilizer in various cosmetic and food products.
sodium pca
SAFE
Sodium PCA is a natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and supple.
stearyl alcohol
SAFE
Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol commonly used as an emollient, thickener, and stabilizer in skincare and cosmetic formulations.
threonine
SAFE
Threonine is an essential amino acid vital for protein synthesis, immune function, and maintaining proper gut health.
trehalose
SAFE
Trehalose is a natural disaccharide sugar known for its ability to protect cells and stabilize proteins by preventing dehydration and oxidative damage.
triolein
SAFE
Triolein is a triglyceride composed of three oleic acid molecules, commonly found in olive oil and other plant based fats.
trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate
SAFE
Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate is a chelating agent used in skincare and cosmetic products to bind and neutralize metal ions, enhancing stability and efficacy.
urea
SAFE
Urea is a nitrogen rich compound commonly used in fertilizers, skincare products, and industrial applications.
valine
SAFE
Valine is an essential branched chain amino acid that plays a key role in muscle metabolism, tissue repair, and energy production.
Are Other The Ordinary Products Safe During Pregnancy?
We looked at 2 other The Ordinary products. 0 are pregnancy safe (A or B grade), while 2 need a closer look.
| Grade | Product | Type |
|---|---|---|
| C+ | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum With Ceramides | serum |
| C+ | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | serum |
How Does Compare to Other Moisturizers?
We graded 232 Moisturizers for pregnancy safety. Here's how they stack up:
earns a C- grade, placing it among the majority of Moisturizers. Only 3% 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.
