Pregnancy brings about many life changes - and questions. The surge in hormones can lead to skin changes, such as hormonal acne, hyperpigmentation, spider and varicose veins, and stretch marks. Aside from sleepless nights and new daily routines, extra consideration should go into the skin and body products used. Many skin care ingredients are safe and harmless, but there are a few that have potential risks and should be avoided.

To protect the baby, it's important to select pregnancy-safe skin care ingredients and products. We spoke to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Trent, MD, FAAD about the ingredients expecting (or nursing) moms should avoid and what to use instead.

Two types of sunscreens provide UV protection: chemical and mineral. Both protect the skin from UV radiation emitted by the sun, but they do it differently based on their ingredients.

Glycolic Acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate dead skin cells that cause the skin to appear dull and dry while giving it a smoother, more glowing complexion. It increases collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and corrects dark spots on the skin, which can worsen during pregnancy. Any skincare product with a concentration of Glycolic Acid safe for pregnancy (> 10%) can be used daily if the skin tolerates it.

Glycolic Acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy in strengths less than 10%. Mild Cream or Gel Cleanser is a pregnancy-safe Glycolic Acid face wash that can be used daily. As with any product, always check with a gynecologist or obstetrician before using it during pregnancy.

Because it doesn't penetrate as deeply, Lactic Acid is less irritating than Glycolic Acid. It helps exfoliate and minimize the appearance of dark spots. Lactic Acid Superficial Retexturizing Serum is safe for daily use by all skin types. It exfoliates dead skin cells that make the skin appear dark, rough, and dull. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate the skin and Rosemary and Tea Tree Oil to soothe skin.