Is Benzoyl Peroxide safe during pregnancy?
OK for acne in pregnancy per ACOG; AAD says limited amounts. While breastfeeding, keep it off the breast and away from baby's skin.
What the sources say
ACOG lists topical benzoyl peroxide among OTC acne ingredients that can be used in pregnancy; AAD says experts consider it safe in limited amounts (treat acne areas, not large body areas) and suggests checking with your provider. Only about 5% is absorbed. LactMed rates it low risk while breastfeeding; avoid infant contact with treated skin, and use only water-based creams or gels on the breast. Note: some combination products also contain retinoids (e.g., adapalene).
Common alternatives
Also listed as
benzoyl, benzoylperoxide, bpo, dibenzoyl peroxide, panoxyl
Sources
- ACOG: Skin Conditions During Pregnancy
- AAD: Is any acne treatment safe to use during pregnancy?
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Treatment of Acne in Pregnancy (J Am Board Fam Med, 2016)
- NIH LactMed: Benzoyl Peroxide - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.