Why pregnancy and breastfeeding change the picture
Pregnancy brings many skin changes, including melasma, acne, dryness and sensitivity, so it is natural to want help. At the same time, most cosmetic treatments have not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding people, because such research is rarely carried out for ethical reasons. Without good safety data, doctors generally take a cautious approach and postpone elective cosmetic procedures until after pregnancy and, for many treatments, after breastfeeding.
This article gives general information only. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, discuss any treatment with your own doctor or obstetrician and tell the clinic before anything is planned.
Treatments usually postponed during pregnancy
Doctors commonly advise delaying these treatments while pregnant:
- Botox and other toxins.
Wrinkle, jaw and body Botox are generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because safety has not been established.
- Dermal fillers.
Lip, nose, under-eye and facial fillers are usually postponed. Pregnancy can also cause swelling that makes results harder to judge.
- Skin booster and collagen injections.
Rejuran, Exosome, Water Glow, Juvelook and Sculptra are typically deferred.
- Fat-dissolving injections.
Generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Thread lifting.
Usually postponed, as it is an invasive procedure and the face may change during pregnancy.
- Energy-based lifting.
Ultherapy, Thermage, Sofwave, Titanium and similar devices are commonly avoided in pregnancy.
- Stronger lasers and RF microneedling.
Fractional lasers and Potenza are generally postponed, partly because pregnancy hormones can increase the risk of pigmentation changes.
- Certain topical products.
Retinoids and some other active ingredients are commonly avoided. Ask your doctor about your skincare.
What about breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is a grey area for many treatments. Some doctors consider certain non-injectable treatments acceptable during breastfeeding, while others prefer to wait until after weaning. For injectables such as Botox and fillers, many doctors advise waiting because evidence is limited. The decision depends on the treatment, your health and your doctor's judgement.
Numbing creams, medicines given after treatment and any prescribed products should also be checked with a doctor while breastfeeding.
If you are trying to conceive
If you are planning a pregnancy or undergoing fertility treatment, mention this at consultation too. Some doctors prefer to avoid injectables and stronger procedures during this period, and the timing of treatment relative to your plans is something to agree with your doctor. Being open about it helps the clinic give advice that fits your situation, and there is no need to feel awkward raising it.
Gentler options sometimes considered
Some people ask about very gentle, non-invasive skin care while pregnant or breastfeeding. Depending on your situation, a doctor may discuss options such as:
- Gentle cleansing treatments.
Hydrating facials or cleansing treatments without strong active ingredients.
- Skincare guidance.
Advice on pregnancy-friendly cleansers, moisturisers and sunscreen.
- Sun protection.
Sunscreen and shade are important for limiting pregnancy-related pigmentation.
Even for gentle treatments, the clinic should know you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and some clinics prefer not to perform any elective cosmetic procedures during pregnancy. This is a reasonable, safety-first policy.
Planning treatment after pregnancy
- Give your skin time.
Melasma, acne and dryness can change after delivery and again after breastfeeding ends.
- Book a consultation first.
A doctor can assess which concerns remain and suggest an order of treatment.
- Bring your history.
Mention any pregnancy-related conditions, medication and how long since you stopped breastfeeding.
- Start gently.
Postpartum skin can be more reactive, so conservative settings may be suggested at first.
When you are ready, Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon lists first-visit prices for treatments such as Pico Light Black Toning at 29,000 KRW and Aquapeel steps 1 and 2 at 9,900 KRW, in KRW with VAT excluded (10% VAT added at payment), checked October 2026. You can learn more on the melasma treatment page
and see the full price list.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Botox while pregnant?
Botox is generally avoided during pregnancy because safety has not been established. Discuss timing with your doctor.
I had Botox before I knew I was pregnant. What should I do?
Contact your obstetrician or doctor and let them know what was used and when. They can advise you personally.
Can I have laser hair removal while pregnant?
Many clinics postpone laser hair removal during pregnancy as a precaution. Ask a doctor about your situation.
When can I restart treatments after giving birth?
It depends on the treatment and whether you are breastfeeding. A doctor will advise at consultation.
Planning treatment after pregnancy or breastfeeding? Book a consultation
or message us on WhatsApp, and let us know your situation so the doctor can advise safely.
