Safe Psoriasis Treatments for Pregnancy: What’s OK and What to Avoid

The Pregnancy Flare That Changed Her Routine

Monica had her psoriasis under control. A combination of prescription creams and lifestyle tweaks kept her flares mild. But when she found out she was pregnant, her dermatologist said she had to stop her usual treatments. Within weeks, the itch returned. The red, scaly patches spread to her arms and scalp.

"What can I even use now?" she asked in frustration.

If you're pregnant and dealing with psoriasis, you’re not alone. Many women find that their go-to treatments are no longer recommended. But there are safe options. This guide walks you through what’s OK, what to avoid, and how to take care of your skin and your baby.

Why Psoriasis Treatment Needs to Change During Pregnancy

Pregnancy changes everything—including how your body reacts to medications and skin products. What was once helpful might now carry risks for your developing baby.

Some medications can cross the placenta or cause birth defects. Others just haven’t been studied enough during pregnancy to prove they’re safe. That’s why working closely with both your OB-GYN and dermatologist is key.

And remember, hormonal shifts during pregnancy can sometimes improve psoriasis symptoms—but they can also cause unexpected flares, especially if you suddenly stop treatment.

Safe Topical Treatments for Mild Psoriasis

For many pregnant women, mild psoriasis can be managed without heavy-duty meds.

✅ Moisturizers & Emollients

• Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers are your best friends.

• Look for thick creams or ointments that lock in moisture (like petroleum jelly or ceramide creams).

• Apply twice daily, especially after bathing.

✅ Low-Potency Corticosteroids

• Hydrocortisone (over-the-counter or prescription strength) can be used sparingly.

• Avoid prolonged use or covering large areas.

• Always apply under medical supervision.

✅ Oatmeal Baths

• Natural and safe for itchy, inflamed skin.

• Soothes irritation without chemicals.

Tip: Keep showers short and use lukewarm water—hot water dries and irritates skin.

Phototherapy: A Safe, Drug-Free Option

If your symptoms are more than mild, Narrowband UVB phototherapy is considered one of the safest and most effective treatments for pregnant women.

Why It Works:

• UVB light helps slow skin cell turnover and reduce inflammation.

• No medications involved = no risk to baby.

What to Avoid:

• Tanning beds and UVA therapy with psoralens (PUVA) should be avoided due to potential harm.

Always make sure your treatment center knows you're pregnant so they can protect sensitive areas.

Ingredients to Use with Caution

Some common psoriasis ingredients can be used in limited ways during pregnancy—but only under supervision.

⚠️ Salicylic Acid

• Often found in shampoos and topical creams.

• Avoid large-area use; small spot treatments may be OK.

⚠️ Vitamin D Analogues (like Calcipotriol)

• Might be safe in small amounts, but not enough research confirms long-term safety.

⚠️ Coal Tar

• Found in some psoriasis shampoos and creams.

• Classified as pregnancy category C (animal studies show risk, no human studies).

• Use only if your doctor recommends it, and avoid UV exposure afterward.

Treatments to Avoid Entirely

Some medications are not safe during pregnancy and should be avoided:

❌ Methotrexate

• Known to cause birth defects and miscarriage.

• Should be stopped well before conception.

❌ Acitretin (and other oral retinoids)

• Extremely high risk of fetal abnormalities.

• Women are advised to avoid pregnancy for up to 3 years after stopping use.

❌ Systemic Corticosteroids

• May be used in rare cases but carry risks like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

❌ Biologic Medications

• Some biologics (like adalimumab or etanercept) have limited safety data.

• May be continued if benefits outweigh risks, but only with your doctor’s guidance.

What About Nopsor?

Nopsor Shampoo and Pomade are designed for psoriasis management using coal tar, salicylic acid, and herbal ingredients.

While these ingredients may offer relief, they fall under the category of "use only with medical approval during pregnancy."

Important Notes:

• Coal tar and salicylic acid are not recommended for large area use during pregnancy.

• Nopsor is not tested specifically for pregnant women.

• Always bring the product to your OB or dermatologist for review before use.

When to Focus on Skin Care, Not Medication

If your psoriasis is mild, consider taking a break from medicated treatments and lean into skin care:

• Moisturize daily with thick, soothing creams

• Avoid triggers like stress, heat, and scented products

• Get plenty of sleep and manage stress with prenatal yoga or breathing exercises

Once you give birth, you and your doctor can reevaluate and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Final Thoughts: You Have Safe Options

Monica, like many women, found that stepping back from aggressive treatments didn’t mean suffering through pregnancy. With the right skin care, phototherapy, and support, she managed her psoriasis safely.

Always consult with your dermatologist before applying any treatment during pregnancy. This guide is to help you have a good conversation with them.

If you're pregnant, know this: you don’t have to choose between your health and your baby’s safety. There are solutions that work for both.

Need safe, natural options to manage your psoriasis? Visit www.nopsor-usa.com to explore our herbal-based products and learn more about your choices.

References

• American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).
  Psoriasis: Tips for managing during pregnancy
  ➤ Can a woman treat psoriasis while pregnant or breastfeeding?
• National Psoriasis Foundation.
  
  • Treatment and Pregnancy
  • ➤ How To Treat Psoriasis when Pregnant
• U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
  Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling (Drugs)
  ➤ https://www.fda.gov/drugs/labeling-information-drug-products/pregnancy-and-lactation-labeling-drugs-final-rule