Agent	Method of Action	Teratogenicity
Kojic Acid	Inhibits tyrosinase, anti-oxidant	No known harm to fetus, low absorption
Aloe vera gel leaf extract	Inhibits tyrosinase	No known harm to fetus
Nicotinamide	Suppresses transfer of melanosomes	Can concentrate in fetal blood. Topically safe
Turmeric	Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory	No known harm to fetus
Topical Vitamin C	Anti-oxidant, wound healing, increases immunity, neurotransmitter, catecholamine, bile acid synthesis, tyrosine degradation, iron absorption	No known harm to fetus, deficiencies associated with impairments in neurological development
Licorice root/glabridin	Anti-oxidant, inhibits tyrosinase, anti-inflammatory	Harmful neurocognitive effects on fetus
Azelaic Acid	Disrupts DNA synthesis, anti-oxidant, inhibits tyrosinase	Animal studies have revealed no known evidence of harm to the fetus; however, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Preferred to use only on small surfaces and preferably not in first trimester
Green Tea extract	Protects DNA from UV radiation	Harmful effects to fetus in rat studies