Can You Get Cosmetic Injections While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

By Alex Donald, Registered Nurse | 15 August 2026

This is one of the most important safety questions in appearance medicine, and the answer is clear: anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers should not be administered during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Why Anti-Wrinkle Injections Are Not Recommended

Anti-wrinkle injections contain botulinum toxin, which is a prescription medicine. While the amount used cosmetically is very small and localised, there is insufficient research on its effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The ethical and medical consensus is that the potential risk — however small — is not worth taking.

Manufacturers of both Dysport and Relfydess state that these products should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This is a clear contraindication, not a "maybe" or "ask your doctor."

Why Dermal Fillers Are Not Recommended

While dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid (which occurs naturally in the body), the same principle applies: there is insufficient safety data for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The cautious and medically responsible approach is to postpone treatment.

When Can You Resume Treatment?

After pregnancy, you can resume cosmetic injectable treatments once you've finished breastfeeding. I recommend waiting at least 4 weeks after weaning before scheduling your appointment, to ensure hormonal levels have stabilised (which can affect how your skin and muscles respond to treatment).

Pregnancy-Safe Alternatives

While injectables are off the table during pregnancy, there are safe alternatives to support your skin:

Skincare

Many skincare ingredients are safe during pregnancy, including:

• Vitamin C — safe and excellent for pigmentation (a common pregnancy skin concern)
• Hyaluronic acid — for hydration
• Niacinamide — for skin barrier and tone
• Glycerin — for moisture

Avoid: Retinoids (vitamin A), salicylic acid (in high concentrations), and hydroquinone. Always check with your lead maternity carer before starting any new skincare during pregnancy.

Skin Treatments

Non-invasive treatments like LED light therapy are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, always consult your lead maternity carer first. Microneedling, chemical peels, and other active treatments should be postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Post-Pregnancy Skin Changes

Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes that affect your skin:

• Melasma (pregnancy mask) — pigmentation on the face. Can be treated post-pregnancy with MeLine peels
• Increased sensitivity — skin may be more reactive
• Dryness or oiliness — hormonal fluctuations can change your skin type
• Volume loss — after pregnancy and breastfeeding, some clients notice facial volume loss, which can be addressed with dermal fillers or Profhilo

Once you've finished breastfeeding, I can help you develop a treatment plan to address these changes safely.

The Bottom Line

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the health of you and your baby comes first. Cosmetic injectables can wait. Focus on pregnancy-safe skincare and enjoy the journey — your treatments will be here when you're ready.

Read more: Anti-wrinkle treatment | Dermal fillers | Side effects guide