Gynecologists’ and dermatologists have warned pregnant women to be careful with the skincare products they use. They explained that substances applied on the skin can enter the bloodstream and may harm the unborn baby.
The experts noted that while beauty and self-care are important, they should never come at the expense of a child’s safety.
They advised expectant mothers to always put their babies’ health first and to consult their doctors whenever they are unsure about a product.
A consultant gynecologists’, Dr. Akinsola Akinde, said many cosmetic and skincare products in the market contain heavy metals and chemicals that are unsafe during pregnancy.
Akinde, a former Chairman of the Society of Genecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria, explained that these substances can pass through the skin and into the body system, a process known as transdermal absorption.
He noted that chemicals like mercury, lead, and bleaching agents such as hydroxyquinolines could cause serious problems if used during pregnancy.
According to him, the risk is highest in the early stages of pregnancy when the baby’s organs are being formed.
Exposure to such harmful substances, he said, could cause birth defects or even miscarriage in severe cases.
“Pregnant women need to know that skincare has consequences. If toxic substances enter the body, they can reach the baby and affect its development,” he warned.
Dr. Akinde advised women to completely avoid skincare products that contain heavy metals or bleaching agents.
Instead, he recommended natural options like petroleum jelly, olive oil, or coconut oil, which are safe for both mother and child.
He added that most skin changes during pregnancy, such as acne and hyperpigmentation, are temporary and usually disappear after childbirth.
“Pregnancy is a season of change. Some changes will fade on their own after delivery. That is a small sacrifice for the gift of bringing life into the world,” he said.
Similarly, a dermatologist, Dr. Abiola Oduyemi, said many women underestimate the dangers of everyday skincare products during pregnancy.
She explained that because of hormonal changes, pregnant women’s bodies react differently and may be more sensitive to harmful chemicals.
Oduyemi warned that products marketed for skin-lightening, anti-ageing, or acne treatment may contain strong chemicals such as retinoids, salicylic acid, and steroids that can harm a baby’s growth.
“Anything applied on the skin can enter the bloodstream. And during pregnancy, whatever the mother absorbs, the baby also absorbs,” she explained.
She added that using several products at the same time without checking ingredients or consulting a doctor increases the risk of chemical exposure.
Oduyemi also raised concern about poor regulation in the cosmetics market, noting that many products sold openly or online do not meet safety standards.
She called on NAFDAC to step up its monitoring and ensure stricter safety controls to protect pregnant women.
The dermatologist advised expectant mothers to keep skincare simple — using only moisturizers, mild soaps, and natural oils — and to wait until after childbirth before resuming complex routines.
