Is benzoyl peroxide safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide acne products may be used during pregnancy if needed, according to MotherToBaby. Little is absorbed and it is broken down quickly, so pregnancy references do not consider it a concern. LactMed rates topical use as low risk while breastfeeding, since only about 5% is absorbed through the skin.
Also listed on labels as: benzoyl peroxide, BPO, BP.
Benzoyl peroxide by stage
Trying to conceive
No concern found while trying to conceivePregnancy guidance allows OTC benzoyl peroxide if needed, so there is no reason to stop while trying to conceive. [1]
Pregnant
No concern found during pregnancyMotherToBaby says OTC benzoyl peroxide may be used during pregnancy if needed. Systemic absorption is minimal and it is rapidly metabolised, so use during pregnancy would not be expected to be a concern. [1][2][3]
Breastfeeding
No concern found while breastfeedingOnly about 5% is absorbed after topical use, so LactMed considers it low risk to a nursing baby. Keep your baby's skin away from treated areas, and use only water-based creams or gels near the breast. [4]
Postpartum
No concern found postpartumThe pregnancy and breastfeeding guidance already finds no concern with topical use, and nothing changes after birth. [1]
What it is
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial acne treatment found in washes, gels and spot treatments, typically at 2.5–10%. It can bleach fabric, so towels and pillowcases are a common giveaway.
Why it is treated as low concern
Very little benzoyl peroxide gets through the skin, and what does is quickly broken down. That is the main reason pregnancy and breastfeeding references are relaxed about everyday OTC products.
Practical tips
- Everyday OTC washes and gels are what the guidance covers.
- While breastfeeding, keep treated skin away from your baby, and near the breast use water-based creams or gels rather than ointments.
Benzoyl peroxide: common questions
Can I use benzoyl peroxide while pregnant?
MotherToBaby says OTC benzoyl peroxide products may be used during pregnancy if needed, because very little is absorbed. Check with your doctor or midwife if you are unsure.
Can I use benzoyl peroxide while breastfeeding?
LactMed rates topical benzoyl peroxide as low risk while breastfeeding because only about 5% is absorbed. Keep it off skin your baby touches.
Sources
- MotherToBaby. Topical Acne Treatments (fact sheet). February 2026.
- Canadian Family Physician. Bozzo P, Chua-Gocheco A, Einarson A. Safety of skin care products during pregnancy. June 2011.
- InfantRisk Center. An Overview of the Safety of Skin Care Products During Pregnancy. April 2020.
- LactMed (NIH). Benzoyl Peroxide — Drugs and Lactation Database. Current entry.
Momclear provides educational information based on recognised ingredients. It does not diagnose, treat, or replace advice from a doctor, midwife, or pharmacist. A "no concern" result is not a guarantee of safety — always check with a healthcare professional if you are unsure.