Is zinc oxide sunscreen safe for pregnant women?
Yes. Zinc oxide sits on top of skin rather than absorbing, so it's the best sunscreen option for pregnancy.
What's actually in it
Zinc oxide is a mineral. It sits on the surface of the skin and scatters UV light. Very little absorbs through. Chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone cross skin easily and have been detected in blood, breast milk, and placenta.
During pregnancy, the goal is to limit anything that crosses the placenta, especially endocrine disruptors.
What the research says
A 2025 screening study in Environ Sci Technol mapped UV filters across personal care products, with oxybenzone and octinoxate showing up widely. Both are linked to hormone disruption in animal studies.
Look for non-nano zinc oxide sunscreens. The "non-nano" part means the particles are too big to penetrate skin. Apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours in direct sun.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical signatures for categories of household consumer products. | Environ Sci Technol | 2025 |
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Home