Is Vitamin C safe during pregnancy?
Dermatologist-suggested option for pregnancy dark spots (melasma). Fine while breastfeeding.
PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceLimited
What the sources say
AAD suggests using vitamin C in the morning (and glycolic acid at night) to help prevent and treat pregnancy-related color changes such as melasma, alongside daily sunscreen. LactMed notes vitamin C is a normal component of breast milk and even high oral doses are not a health concern for the breastfed infant.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
ascorbic acid, calcium ascorbate, l-aa, l-ascorbic acid, pure vitamin c, sodium ascorbate
Sources
- AAD: Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
- NIH LactMed: Vitamin C - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.