Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: Is L'Occitane Safe During Pregnancy?

Question
Hi Cheryl,

I'm 24 weeks pregnant right now. I've been using the Immortelle line from L'Occitane En Provence, and am concerned if the products are safe for my baby. They contain benzyl salicylate. Is it a derivative of salicylic acid and not safe?

Overall, I'm very worried about the safety issue. Should I discontinue using them?

Thanks.

Answer
The product information does state that some of their products are not suitable for use during pregnancy. As a rule of thumb, salicylic acid is avoided during pregnancy because it is easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Given some of the ingredients in the skin products, I would personally avoid using it during pregnancy. Given that this is a product I am not familiar with, I would advise you to refrain from using it until you check with your OB/GYN.

Sincerely,
Cheryl Hetherington