Written by Lauren Lund, APRN-CNP & Kylie Clendenin, Licensed Esthetician

Last Updated on 07/21/2025

Pregnancy brings many changes—some beautiful, some unexpected (hello, pregnancy acne!). Navigating skincare during this time can be confusing, especially when trying to manage hormonal breakouts or maintain a healthy glow without compromising safety. If you’re looking into what products to use while pregnant, you’re in the right place.

Pregnant skin needs special attention. During pregnancy, hormone fluctuations can lead to: increased oil production, breakouts or cystic acne, dry patches or sensitivity, melasma and pigmentation changes. Many traditional acne-fighting ingredients—like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid—are either restricted or not recommended during pregnancy, making product selection even more important.

Are Face Reality Products Safe During Pregnancy?

Face Reality offers a pregnancy-safe protocol and many of their products are specially formulated to be effective and gentle. Their approach focuses on ingredient-conscious formulations that avoid harsh or contraindicated actives for expecting mothers.

❗❗❗ Always check with your OB or dermatologist before starting any new product during pregnancy.

 
Step 1: Cleanse

The first step to every skincare routine is cleansing. We often recommend a double cleanse to ensure all makeup and dead, dull skin cells are removed for the face. Cleansing the skin can also feel very refreshing. Options for a Face Reality Cleanser while pregnant include:

Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser

• Face Reality Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser is a sulfate-free gel cleanser that has been formulated to provide antioxidant support, which can be beneficial to acne-prone skin. Key antioxidant ingredients include Green Tea Extract, Licorice Root Extract, and Mushroom extract.
• Appropriate for all skin types including sensitive skin, dry skin or mature skin.
• Safe use on skin prone to all types of acne and can also be used on skin that is not prone to acne.
• FEATURES: Alcohol Free, Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Oil Free, Non-comedogenic, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan

Barrier Balance Cleanser

•  A gentle but powerful cleanser developed specifically for the needs of acne- prone skin. This creamy cleanser calms, soothes, and hydrates the skin while supporting a healthy microbiome—one of the keys to getting clear skin. An empowering new way to cleanse when your skin needs a super hydrating boost.
• FEATURES: Alcohol Free, Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Non-comedogenic, Oil Free, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan

Step 2: Tone

Calming Facial Toner

• Face Reality Calming Facial Toner is a gentle toner containing ingredients with soothing, hydrating and moisturizing properties.
• Appropriate for dry or normal skin.
• Safe on skin prone to all types of acne and can also be used on skin that is not prone to acne.
• FEATURES: Alcohol Free, Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Non-comedogenic, Oil Free, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan

Moisture Balance Toner

• A fragrance-free toner that provides intense, soothing hydration and helps the skin maintain moisture.
• Perfect toner for those who are exposed to harsh weather and chronically dry skin.
• FEATURES: Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Non-comedogenic, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan

TONER TIP:

We recommend discontinuing the use of salicylic acid toners during pregnancy.

Step 3: Corrective Serums

HydraBalance Gel

• HydraBalance Gel is a water-based hydrating gel that contains antioxidant properties and can help reduce the appearance of oily shine. HydraBalance Gel helps to reduce inflammation and reduce acne by increasing skin hydration.
• This hydrating gel can be used under Clearderma, Cran-Peptide Cream, or a sunscreen during the day.  Because it is water-based, HydraBalance Gel can be safely used under Acne Med.  It can also be used before and after a serum to provide extra hydration for dehydrated skin.
• FEATURES: Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Non-comedogenic, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan

Step 4: Moisturize 

Face Reality ClearDerma Moisturizer

• Lightweight yet deeply moisturizing, clearDerma offers potent antioxidant support and contains soothing properties.
• Appropriate for normal to oily skin types.
• FEATURES: Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan, Non-comedogenic

Face Reality Cran-Peptide Cream

• An ultra-soothing moisturizer containing a powerful blend of antioxidants and peptides that offer anti-aging benefits.
• Appropriate for all skin types, especially aging, dry and dehydrated skin.
• FEATURES: Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Oil Free, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan, Non-comedogenic

Step 5: Protect

Mineral-based sunscreens are generally considered safe and are often recommended for pregnant women. Mineral Based Sunscreens contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin to block UV rays. Mineral Sunscreens have a reduced risk of absorption and minimal irritant properties, compared to chemical sunscreens (1). SPF should be applied before makeup and only needs to be applied during the day. You should apply SPF daily, even if you are not going outside. Mineral Sunscreen from Face Reality:

Mineral Matte SPF 28

• A broad-spectrum physical sunscreen that protects against UVA & UVB rays, all while providing a matifying finish.
• Appropriate for everyone, especially sensitive skin.

Conclusion 

You don’t have to put your skincare goals on hold during pregnancy. With Face Reality’s pregnancy-safe options, you can manage acne or maintain glowing skin with confidence. Always work with a licensed provider who can review ingredients, guide your treatment plan, and help you avoid triggers during this delicate time.

MOBO Med Spa has 3 locations that proudly are Face Reality Acne Certified: MOBO Central Ohio, MOBO Muskingum Valley, and MOBO Mid Ohio Valley.

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The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content shared here is based on general wellness principles and is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen or making changes to your current health plan. This blog does not establish a patient-provider relationship, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the author. Please seek the guidance of your physician or another qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns you may have.