Why low-tox skincare matters 

Trying to conceive, navigating IVF, pregnant or breastfeeding? This is often the point where you begin to look more closely at what you’re putting on your skin every day. And rightly so. Your skin is your largest organ, and while not everything applied topically is absorbed systemically, daily exposure contributes to your overall toxic load. A low-tox approach during this time is less about restriction, and more about educating yourself about skin changes and ingredients to be mindful of.

As you move through pregnancy and into breastfeeding, this awareness often deepens. Some substances applied to the skin can enter the bloodstream, and emerging research suggests certain environmental compounds may cross the placenta. While skincare is just one piece of the puzzle, many choose to simplify their routines as a way to feel more confident and considered in their choices.

 

Ingredients to be mindful of

Rather than long lists, it can be helpful to focus on a few key categories many choose to limit or avoid during pregnancy:

• Vitamin A derivatives (retinol and related forms) have been linked to developmental concerns.
• Strong exfoliating acids used at high concentrations as skin becomes more sensitive.
• Synthetic fragrance (parfum) can contain multiple undisclosed compounds, some of which have been associated with hormone disruption and skin irritation.
• Certain essential oils in higher amounts due to potential effects on hormones or uterine activity (Clary Sage, Rosemary, Basil, Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano).
• Some chemical sunscreen filters (like oxybenzone) have raised concerns due to potential hormone-disrupting activity. Opt for mineral alternatives like zinc oxide during pregnancy.

 

Why low-tox skincare matters during this phase

Hormonal shifts during IVF, pregnancy and postpartum can lead to

• Increased skin sensitivity
• Pigmentation (melasma)
• Dryness or dehydration
• Breakouts

At the same time, your tolerance for harsh actives often drops.

 

A simple, low-tox routine (Trying to conceive to breastfeeding)

Step 1: Gentle cleanser

Use a nourishing, non-stripping cleanser that removes buildup while preserving the skin barrier.

Try Sensitive Suds Moisturising Cleanser  

 

Step 2: Barrier repair and hydration

Skin barrier repair and hydration are essential during pregnancy because hormonal changes increase sensitivity and dryness, making skin more vulnerable to irritation, inflammation, and moisture loss.

Try Deep Moisture Repair Duo

Step 3: Daily mineral protection

A zinc-based sunscreen that protects against UV exposure; essential during pregnancy when pigmentation (like melasma) is more common, while remaining gentle on reactive skin.

Try SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

 

Low-tox skincare during this time is about reducing unnecessary exposure, supporting your skin through hormonal change, and choosing formulas you feel confident using daily. It is not about doing more, but about doing less, better.

 

We formulate without FUCA’s Dirty Dozen. 12 ingredients known to irritate sensitive skin or may be linked to hormone disruption. Fragrances, synthetic dyes, phenoxyethanol, essential oils, parabens, sulphates (SLS/SLES), alcohol, silicones, phthalates, Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs), Oxybenzone and mineral oils. To read more about Fuca's Dirty Dozen click here.

 

References

National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Environmental chemical exposure and pregnancy

Environmental Health Perspectives – Studies on placental transfer of environmental compounds

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – Guidance on topical retinoid use during pregnancy