Is Potassium Thioglycolate safe during pregnancy?
Active in some hair removal creams. Depilatories are among the hair removal options reviews suggest in pregnancy.
PregnancyUse with care
BreastfeedingUse with care
EvidenceLimited
What the sources say
A review of cosmetic procedures in pregnancy recommends waxing, shaving and depilatory creams rather than laser or electrolysis, which lack safety data. Depilatories mainly cause skin irritation or chemical burns if left on too long. Limit: patch test, follow label timing, avoid broken or irritated skin. While breastfeeding, avoid the breast area.
Sources
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): A review of the safety of cosmetic procedures during pregnancy and lactation (Int J Womens Dermatol, 2017)
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Safety of skin care products during pregnancy (Can Fam Physician, 2011)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.