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The facts: Hyaluronic Acid is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Hyaluronic Acid on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure HA Serum.
TL;DR: Hyaluronic Acid is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure HA Serum, RoC Retinol Correxion Hyaluronic Acid Serum |
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide (glycosaminoglycan) found abundantly in human skin, connective tissue, and eyes. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. In cosmetics, HA is typically produced via bacterial fermentation of Streptococcus equi.
Used as a powerful humectant that draws water from the environment and dermis to plump and hydrate the skin surface. Multi-molecular weight HA targets different skin layers. It also has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
Hyaluronic acid is among the safest cosmetic active ingredients available. As an endogenous molecule in the human body, it is exceptionally biocompatible and essentially non-allergenic in topical form. The CIR has confirmed its cosmetic safety. No carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, or significant adverse effects are documented. Rare reports of pore congestion exist with certain high-MW HA in oily skin, but these are minimal.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Hyaluronic Acid with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Hyaluronic Acid is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure HA Serum, RoC Retinol Correxion Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Hyaluronic Acid.
Sodium PCA, glycerin, or beta-glucan as alternative humectants; marine-derived alternatives like carrageenan or algae extracts. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Hyaluronic Acid or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Hyaluronic Acid.
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