why our serums are SAFE during pregnancy
One of the first ingredients many women remove from their skincare routine during pregnancy is retinol.
Retinol and other vitamin A derivatives are not recommended during pregnancy because oral forms of vitamin A have been associated with fetal risk. While topical retinol is absorbed differently, most medical professionals advise discontinuing it out of caution. As a result, many women are left wondering how to continue supporting their skin safely.
At skinbyKDU, our serums are formulated differently from the start.
The core ingredient in our renewal-focused formulations is bakuchiol — a plant-derived compound often referred to as a natural alternative to retinol.
What Makes Bakuchiol Different?
Bakuchiol is extracted from the Psoralea corylifolia plant and has been studied for its ability to:
• support collagen production
• improve the appearance of fine lines
• encourage smoother texture
• promote even-looking tone
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol does not belong to the vitamin A family. It does not carry the same pregnancy restrictions, and it does not create the same irritation profile commonly associated with traditional retinoids.
Clinical research has shown bakuchiol to deliver similar visible improvements in skin firmness and texture as retinol — without the redness, peeling, and barrier disruption.
During pregnancy, when skin often becomes more sensitive and reactive, this difference matters.
Safety Through Simplicity
Pregnancy-safe skincare is not just about avoiding one ingredient. It’s about minimizing unnecessary exposure overall.
Our serums are formulated with seven ingredients or fewer.
They are:
• plant-based
• free from synthetic preservatives
• free from vitamin A derivatives
• intentionally minimal
This simplicity reduces the likelihood of irritation and supports the skin’s natural function rather than overstimulating it.
Long ingredient lists increase the chances of sensitivity — especially when hormones are already altering the skin’s behavior.
Minimal formulations provide clarity and confidence.
Supporting Renewal Without Risk
Retinol accelerates cell turnover by binding to retinoic acid receptors in the skin. That mechanism is powerful — but it is also why caution is advised during pregnancy.
Bakuchiol works differently.
Instead of forcing rapid cellular turnover, it supports gene expression related to collagen and skin structure without activating vitamin A pathways. The result is gradual improvement in firmness and texture without the inflammatory cascade often triggered by retinoids.
In other words: renewal without aggression.
Why This Matters During Pregnancy
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can make skin more:
• reactive
• dry
• prone to breakouts
• susceptible to barrier disruption
This is not the time to push the skin harder. It is the time to stabilize it.
Plant-based, minimal formulations centered around bakuchiol allow for continued support of skin structure and appearance without compromising safety.
Pregnancy-safe skincare should not feel like settling for less.
It should feel intentional.
At skinbyKDU, our approach is simple: support the skin’s natural processes using thoughtfully selected plant-based ingredients — so that even during pregnancy, your routine remains effective, balanced, and safe.
Karen x