VeriMomTransparent,
science-backed scoring
Reviewed by VeriMom Editorial Team · Last reviewed
We believe in full transparency. Here's exactly how we determine if an ingredient is safe during pregnancy — from data sources to final score.
Scoring Pipeline
Every ingredient goes through a rigorous 5-step analysis pipeline before receiving a safety score.
Step 1
CosIng Import
We start with the EU's official cosmetic ingredient database — over 28,000 ingredients as our comprehensive base layer.
Step 2
ECHA Hazard Matching
Cross-reference with ECHA/REACH regulatory hazard classifications, specifically targeting reproductive toxicity flags (H360, H361, H362).
Step 3
PubChem Enrichment
Pull GHS hazard data and toxicological information from NIH's PubChem database for chemical-level safety insights.
Step 4
PubMed Evidence
Search peer-reviewed medical literature for pregnancy-specific safety studies, teratogenicity data, and reproductive toxicity evidence.
Step 5
Score Computation
Combine all evidence into a single safety score. The riskiest ingredient sets the product's risk band; within that band, the score reflects how high in the INCI list the hazardous ingredient appears — closer to position 1 means higher concentration and a more severe score.
Four clear safety levels
We use four clear safety levels to communicate risk. No confusing numbers — just actionable guidance so you always know where you stand.
Safe
Score: 90–100
No reproductive toxicity flags found in any data source. Considered safe for use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and on baby skin.
Examples: Glycerin, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid
Low Concern
Score: 70–89
Minor flags or limited evidence of concern. Generally considered safe, but worth being aware of.
Examples: Some essential oils, Salicylic Acid (low concentration)
Use with Caution
Score: 40–69
Some evidence of potential concern or insufficient safety data. Review with your healthcare provider before use.
Examples: Some UV filters, certain preservatives
Avoid
Score: 0–39
Strong evidence or regulatory classification of reproductive toxicity (H360). Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Examples: Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, certain Phthalates
Built on real data
Every score is backed by data from leading regulatory bodies and scientific institutions.
EU CosIng
RegulatoryThe European Commission's database of cosmetic ingredients. Our base of 28,000+ ingredients.
ECHA / REACH
RegulatoryEuropean Chemicals Agency hazard classifications, including reproductive toxicity statements (H360, H361, H362).
PubChem
ScientificNIH chemical database with GHS hazard classifications and toxicological data.
PubMed
ScientificPeer-reviewed medical literature on pregnancy safety, teratogenicity, and reproductive toxicity.
Clinical guardrails
Our scoring system is designed with built-in safeguards to protect you and your baby.
- ✓
Regulatory hazard classifications (H360, H361) cannot be overridden by the scoring algorithm — they set a minimum risk floor.
- ✓
Product scores follow band-first logic: the single riskiest ingredient determines the product's safety band. Filler ingredients can never dilute a serious flag.
- ✓
Within a band, scores spread by INCI position — a hazardous ingredient near the top of the list (higher concentration) drives a more severe score than a trace amount near the bottom.
- ✓
We err on the side of caution. Insufficient data defaults to flagging rather than clearing.
- ✓
This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about specific products.