My Go-To Medical-Grade Skincare Lineup (That are also safe in pregnancy!)
- Reagan O'Connor
- Jan 12
- 4 min read
Before diving in, I want to share something important: every product in this routine is safe to use during pregnancy.
I want to also say though- that before you use
or take anything, you should always speak with your specific doctor/provider. So, while largely these are safe in pregnancy - always get your approval before doing anything or taking anything during pregnancy or breastfeeding!
As a family nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetic medicine, pregnancy safety is always top of mind when I’m choosing skincare - both for myself and for those I recommend products to. These are medical-grade options that are clinically backed, effective, and appropriate for use during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.
This lineup includes products I personally use and trust because they support skin health without relying on ingredients that are contraindicated in pregnancy. If you’re looking to care for your skin while pregnant and nursing - without sacrificing results - these are my go-to favorites.
This is one of my non-negotiables for hydration and skin barrier support.
Why I love it:
Boosts collagen
Plumps and smooths the skin
Creates a dewy, healthy glow
Fortifies the skin barrier
Provides long-term hydration (up to 48 hours)
Offers antioxidant protection
In clinical studies, research subjects reported looking three years younger after 12 weeks. I especially love this product for dry, dull, or post-procedure skin that needs extra support.
SkinMedica - TNS Advanced+ Serum (AKA Botox in a bottle)
If I had to choose one product for overall skin rejuvenation, this would be it. This is the holy grail of skin care. And I’ll be honest with you, it has a high price point. For absolute best results I would recommend using it day and night consistently. I would say this is the strongest over-the-counter medical grade skin care item that will give you the most effective results. If the price point is not where you’re able to use this product twice a day, use it at night as that’s when skin turns over.
What it does:
Repairs and remodels the skin
Improves skin efficiency at a cellular level
Supports collagen and elastin production
Promotes visible rejuvenation
Clinical studies showed subjects looked up to six years younger after 12 weeks. As a provider, this is one of the most comprehensive anti-aging serums I recommend.
My two favorite brands for over the counter Azelaic Acid are:
Dermatica
The Ordinary - https://amzn.to/4sw9Dbj
This is one of my favorite multitasking ingredients, especially for patients with sensitive or reactive skin.
Benefits include:
Helps treat acne
Improves rosacea
Reduces hyperpigmentation
Provides gentle exfoliation
Offers antioxidant protection
Evens overall skin tone
Azelaic acid is incredibly effective while still being well tolerated. I personally love using as a lay acid in my routine, especially for difficult pregnancy/hormonal acne. With pregnancy number four I had terrible hormonal acne, and azelaic cid was the only thing that took care of it for me!!
Gentle exfoliation is key to healthy skin, and this cleanser strikes the right balance. With some cleansers, I don’t feel like my face feels truly clean, this one does the job every time!!
One bottle lasts 2-3 months.
Why it works:
Gently exfoliates without stripping
Promotes healthy skin cell turnover
Provides antioxidant benefits
Leaves skin smooth and refreshed
This is a great daily cleanser for improving texture and brightness.
This system focuses on defense during the day and repair at night.
LumiVive Day:
11 antioxidants for environmental protection
LumiVive Night:
6 antioxidants for overnight restoration
Together, they help protect against daily stressors while supporting skin recovery.
This is one of my favorite all-in-one products, both personally and professionally. I love using this as a primer and a tinted moisturizer, and I have never met anyone who has tried this product and disliked it. I have so many of my friends and personal clients in my clinic who absolutely love this product! Bonus is one tube several months!
Why it stands out:
5-in-1 formula: corrects, protects, conceals, brightens, and hydrates
Broad-spectrum SPF 45
Helps improve fine lines and wrinkles
Brightens and evens skin tone
It’s ideal for anyone who wants skincare, coverage, and sun protection in one step.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need an overly complicated routine to see results — you need the right products, used consistently. As a family nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetic medicine, these are the products I trust for maintaining healthy, resilient skin.
If you had to ask me if there was ONE PRODUCT for you to use out of this group- I would 100% say TNS Advance Serum. If you use nothing else on your skin, this will give you the most bang for your buck!
If you’re unsure where to start or want help building a routine tailored to your skin goals, I’m always happy to help guide you.
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