Is Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser Safe During Pregnancy? (Updated 2026 Guide)
Updated March 12, 2026
Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser
Tula
Tula Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser receives an F grade for pregnancy safety. This cleanser contains butylphenyl methylpropional (Lilial), a synthetic fragrance ingredient now banned in many countries due to concerns about reproductive harm, along with phenoxyethanol and undisclosed fragrance compounds that warrant caution during pregnancy.
Do not use during pregnancy. If you've already used it, don't worry - we're all learning. If it was heavy usage or large doses, please contact your OBGYN or midwife.
Pregnancy Safe is 100% independent and research driven. No companies pay to promote or sponsor products.
What Ingredients Are in Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser?
Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser has 37 ingredients. We flagged 1 to avoid and 2 to use with caution.
butylphenyl methylpropional
AVOID
Butylphenyl methylpropional is a synthetic fragrance ingredient now banned in many countries. AVOID during pregnancy. This synthetic fragrance (Lilial) is banned in the EU for reproductive toxicity and is classified as suspected of damaging fertility and harming the unborn child.
fragrance
CAUTION
Fragrance is a mixture of aromatic chemicals in scented products. Synthetic fragrance blends may contain phthalates linked to developmental concerns; consider fragrance free alternatives during pregnancy.
phenoxyethanol
CAUTION
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products. A preservative with FDA warnings for nursing products; use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
ascorbyl palmitate
LIKELY SAFE
Ascorbyl palmitate is a saturated fatty acid found in palm oil, meat, dairy, and some cosmetics. A fat soluble form of vitamin C used as an antioxidant; safe during pregnancy at supplement levels.
curcuma longa root extract
LIKELY SAFE
Curcuma longa root extract is a polyphenolic compound from turmeric used as an anti inflammatory and antioxidant supplement. Turmeric extract with anti inflammatory properties; safe topically but high oral doses may affect implantation.
tocopheryl acetate
LIKELY SAFE
Tocopheryl acetate is a fat soluble antioxidant vitamin commonly found in prenatal supplements and vegetable oils. Vitamin E derivative that is safe for topical use during pregnancy in normal cosmetic amounts.
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.
aqua water eau
SAFE
Aqua, water, or eau is a clear, tasteless, and odorless liquid essential for life and commonly used as a solvent in various applications. Purified water is completely safe during pregnancy and serves as the base for this gentle cleansing formula.
bifida ferment lysate
SAFE
Bifida Ferment Lysate is a probiotic derived ingredient that helps strengthen the skin's barrier, improve hydration, and promote a healthy, balanced complexion. A probiotic derived skincare ingredient that strengthens skin barrier; considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
bulnesia sarmientoi wood oil
SAFE
Bulnesia sarmientoi wood oil is a fragrant, resinous essential oil derived from the aromatic wood of the Bulnesia sarmientoi tree, often used for its calming and aromatic properties. An aromatic wood essential oil; limited pregnancy data but generally considered safe in small cosmetic concentrations.
butylene glycol
SAFE
Butylene glycol is a versatile, colorless, and odorless solvent and humectant commonly used in skincare and cosmetic formulations to help retain moisture and improve product texture. A humectant and solvent that helps products absorb into skin; considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
camelina sativa seed oil
SAFE
Camelina sativa seed oil is a nutrient rich, plant based oil known for its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant properties. A plant oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids; safe and nourishing for topical use during pregnancy.
cananga odorata flower oil
SAFE
Cananga odorata flower oil is a fragrant essential oil derived from the ylang ylang flower, known for its sweet, floral aroma and calming properties. Ylang ylang essential oil; use sparingly during pregnancy as some essential oils may cause sensitivity.
caprylyl glycol
SAFE
Caprylyl glycol is a versatile moisturizing agent and skin Conditioner commonly used in skincare products for its humectant and antimicrobial properties. This moisturizing agent is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
carthamus tinctorius seed oil
SAFE
Carthamus tinctorius seed oil, also known as safflower seed oil, is a lightweight, nourishing oil rich in unsaturated fats used in skincare and cooking. Safflower seed oil is a nourishing plant oil that is safe for topical use throughout 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.
citrus aurantium dulcis oil
SAFE
Citrus aurantium dulcis oil is an essential oil extracted from sweet orange peels, known for its refreshing citrus aroma and skin brightening properties. Sweet orange essential oil; generally safe in cosmetic amounts but may increase sun sensitivity.
citrus limon fruit oil
SAFE
Citrus limon fruit oil is a vibrant, refreshing essential oil extracted from lemon peel, known for its uplifting aroma and cleansing properties. Lemon essential oil; safe in small cosmetic concentrations but may cause photosensitivity.
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.
disodium laureth sulfosuccinate
SAFE
Disodium laureth sulfosuccinate is a gentle, sulfate free surfactant commonly used in cleansers and shampoos to create a rich lather and effectively remove dirt and oils. A mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, considered safe during pregnancy for cleansing products.
disteareth 75 ipdi
SAFE
A synthetic emulsifier used to stabilize formulas; limited data but considered low risk in rinse off products.
ethylhexylglycerin
SAFE
Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin conditioning agent and preservative booster commonly used in cosmetics to enhance product stability and provide mild antimicrobial benefits. A skin conditioning agent and preservative booster; considered safe during pregnancy.
glycerin
SAFE
Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, and sweet tasting humectant commonly used in skincare products to attract and retain moisture in the skin. A gentle humectant that is safe and commonly used during pregnancy.
hydrolyzed rice protein
SAFE
Hydrolyzed rice protein is a water soluble extract derived from rice that helps strengthen and condition hair or skin by providing nourishing amino acids. A plant derived protein that conditions skin; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
inulin
SAFE
Inulin is a natural dietary fiber found in plants like chicory root and Jerusalem artichokes, known for promoting digestive health and acting as a prebiotic. A prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health; safe during pregnancy though may cause gas in sensitive individuals.
juniperus mexicana oil
SAFE
Juniperus mexicana oil is a fragrant essential oil derived from the leaves and berries of the Mexican juniper tree, known for its aromatic, purifying, and invigorating properties. Mexican juniper essential oil; limited pregnancy data, use with caution as some juniper oils are not recommended during pregnancy.
lactis proteinum milk protein proteine du lait
SAFE
Milk derived protein for skin conditioning; safe for topical use unless you have a dairy allergy.
lauryl glucoside
SAFE
Lauryl glucoside is a gentle, plant derived surfactant commonly used in skincare and haircare products for its cleansing and foaming properties. A gentle, biodegradable surfactant derived from coconut and corn sugar; safe and well tolerated 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.
olus oil vegetable oil huile vegetale
SAFE
A blend of vegetable oils; safe and moisturizing for topical use during pregnancy.
panthenol
SAFE
Panthenol is a moisturizing and soothing ingredient commonly used in skincare and haircare products to improve hydration and promote healthy skin and hair. Vitamin B5 that moisturizes and soothes skin; safe and often recommended during pregnancy.
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. A humectant and solvent that hydrates skin; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
phenethyl alcohol
SAFE
Phenethyl alcohol is a colorless, aromatic compound commonly used as a fragrance ingredient with a floral, rose like scent. A naturally occurring aromatic compound with rose like scent; considered safe in typical cosmetic concentrations.
polyquaternium 10
SAFE
A conditioning polymer commonly used in cleansers; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
sodium lauryl sulfoacetate
SAFE
Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is a gentle, biodegradable surfactant commonly used in personal care and cleansing products to create lather and remove dirt and oils. A gentle, coconut derived surfactant; safe and well tolerated during pregnancy.
sorbic acid
SAFE
Sorbic acid is a natural or synthetic preservative commonly used to inhibit mold, yeast, and bacterial growth in food and cosmetic products. Sorbic acid is a gentle preservative that prevents microbial growth; safe for topical use during pregnancy.
yogurt powder
SAFE
Yogurt powder is a dehydrated form of yogurt that offers a concentrated source of probiotics, flavor, and creaminess, often used in baking, smoothies, and dairy products. Dehydrated yogurt providing probiotics and lactic acid; safe for topical skincare use during pregnancy.
Answering Your Questions
How much Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser is safe during pregnancy?
Due to the F grade, we recommend avoiding this cleanser during pregnancy. If you choose to use it, limit to a small pea sized amount and rinse thoroughly to minimize skin contact time.
Can you use Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser daily while pregnant?
We advise pregnant women to seek safer alternatives. If transitioning away from this product, consider switching to an A or B graded face cleanser for daily use.
Is Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser safe while breastfeeding?
This cleanser is not recommended while breastfeeding. It contains phenoxyethanol, which has FDA warnings specifically for nursing products due to potential central nervous system effects, as well as butylphenyl methylpropional which is classified as suspected of harming reproductive development.
What are pregnancy safe alternatives to Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser?
Look for face cleansers with an A or B pregnancy safety grade that are fragrance free and avoid synthetic preservatives. Many gentle, probiotic based cleansers exist without the concerning ingredients found in this formula. Check our database for top rated pregnancy safe face cleansers.
Why does Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser get an F grade?
The F grade is primarily due to butylphenyl methylpropional (Lilial), a synthetic fragrance now banned in the EU because it damages the developing male reproductive system and is classified as suspected of harming the unborn child. The product also contains phenoxyethanol with FDA nursing warnings and undisclosed fragrance compounds that may contain phthalates.
What face cleansers should you avoid while pregnant?
Avoid face cleansers containing retinoids, high concentration salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and synthetic fragrances with undisclosed ingredients. Also watch for butylphenyl methylpropional (Lilial), which is found in this Tula cleanser and is banned in many countries for reproductive toxicity concerns.
What are the ingredients in Tula Cult Classic Purifying Cleanser?
Key ingredients include bifida ferment lysate (probiotic), turmeric root extract, hydrolyzed rice protein, and various plant oils. However, it also contains concerning ingredients like butylphenyl methylpropional, phenoxyethanol, and synthetic fragrance that contribute to its F pregnancy safety grade.
Is Tula skincare safe during pregnancy?
Tula offers some pregnancy safe products, but not all are suitable. The Cult Classic Face Cleanser specifically receives an F grade due to butylphenyl methylpropional and other concerning ingredients. Always check individual product grades rather than assuming an entire brand is safe.
What Are Pregnancy Safe Alternatives to Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser?
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 | Nourish Organic Moisturizing Face Cleanser - Watercress & Cucumber - Unscented - 6 Fl Oz | Nourish Organic | face cleanser |
| A | La Roche Posay Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream Face Cleanser - 4.2Oz | La Roche Posay | face cleanser |
Are Other Tula Products Safe During Pregnancy?
We looked at 3 other Tula products. 0 are pregnancy safe (A or B grade), while 3 need a closer look.
| Grade | Product | Type |
|---|---|---|
| F | 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day &Amp; Night Cream | face cream |
| F | The Cult Classic Face Cleanser | face cleanser |
| F | The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser | face cleanser |
How Does Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser Compare to Other Face Cleansers?
We graded 52 Face Cleansers for pregnancy safety. Here's how they stack up:
Tula Cult Classic Face Cleanser earns a F grade, placing it among the top of Face Cleansers. Only 4% 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
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