Our methodology
Transparent, science-backed scoring
We believe in full transparency. Here's exactly how we determine if an ingredient is safe during pregnancy - from data sources to final score.
Reviewed by VeriMom Editorial Team · Last reviewed
5-step process
Scoring Pipeline
Every ingredient goes through a rigorous 5-step analysis pipeline before receiving a safety score.
- 1
CosIng Import
We start with the EU's official cosmetic ingredient database - over 28,000 ingredients as our comprehensive base layer.
- 2
ECHA Hazard Matching
Cross-reference with ECHA/REACH regulatory hazard classifications, specifically targeting reproductive toxicity flags (H360, H361, H362).
- 3
PubChem Enrichment
Pull GHS hazard data and toxicological information from NIH's PubChem database for chemical-level safety insights.
- 4
PubMed Evidence
Search peer-reviewed medical literature for pregnancy-specific safety studies, teratogenicity data, and reproductive toxicity evidence.
- 5
Score Computation
Score hazard, mechanism, and exposure at 60% / 20% / 20%, then keep each product inside the risk band set by its lowest-scoring ingredient.
Easy to understand
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
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
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
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
0–39
Strong evidence or regulatory classification of reproductive toxicity (H360). Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Examples: Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, certain Phthalates
Trusted sources
Built on real data
Every score is backed by data from leading regulatory bodies and scientific institutions.
Regulatory
EU CosIng
The European Commission's database of cosmetic ingredients. Our base of 28,000+ ingredients.
Regulatory
ECHA / REACH
European Chemicals Agency hazard classifications, including reproductive toxicity statements (H360, H361, H362).
Scientific
PubChem
NIH chemical database with GHS hazard classifications and toxicological data.
Scientific
PubMed
Peer-reviewed medical literature on pregnancy safety, teratogenicity, and reproductive toxicity.
Safety first
Clinical guardrails
Our scoring system is designed with built-in safeguards to protect you and your baby.
- A hazard score of 3 always caps an ingredient in the High Risk band.
- Product risk is band-first; INCI position adjusts the number only within the lowest-scoring ingredient's band.
- 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.