VMVeriMom
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.

5-step process

Scoring Pipeline

Every ingredient goes through a rigorous 5-step analysis pipeline before receiving a safety score.

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1

Step 1

CosIng Import

We start with the EU's official cosmetic ingredient database — over 28,000 ingredients as our comprehensive base layer.

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2

Step 2

ECHA Hazard Matching

Cross-reference with ECHA/REACH regulatory hazard classifications, specifically targeting reproductive toxicity flags (H360, H361, H362).

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3

Step 3

PubChem Enrichment

Pull GHS hazard data and toxicological information from NIH's PubChem database for chemical-level safety insights.

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4

Step 4

PubMed Evidence

Search peer-reviewed medical literature for pregnancy-specific safety studies, teratogenicity data, and reproductive toxicity evidence.

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5

Step 5

Score Computation

Combine all evidence into a single safety score using our severity-blending algorithm: 70% peak severity + 30% average severity.

Easy to understand

Four clear risk bands

We use four risk bands to communicate safety clearly. No confusing numbers — just clear levels so you always know where you stand.

90

No Known Risks

Score: 90–100

No reproductive toxicity flags found in any data source. Considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Examples: Glycerin, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid

70

Low Risk

Score: 70–89

Minor flags or limited evidence of concern. Generally considered safe, but some caution may be warranted.

Examples: Some essential oils, Salicylic Acid (low concentration)

40

Medium Risk

Score: 40–69

Moderate evidence of potential reproductive effects. Regulatory flags like H361 present. Consult your healthcare provider.

Examples: Some UV filters, certain preservatives

0

High Risk

Score: 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.

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EU CosIng

Regulatory

The European Commission's database of cosmetic ingredients. Our base of 28,000+ ingredients.

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ECHA / REACH

Regulatory

European Chemicals Agency hazard classifications, including reproductive toxicity statements (H360, H361, H362).

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PubChem

Scientific

NIH chemical database with GHS hazard classifications and toxicological data.

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PubMed

Scientific

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.

  • Regulatory hazard classifications (H360, H361) cannot be overridden by the scoring algorithm — they set a minimum risk floor.

  • Product-level scores use severity blending: 70% peak ingredient severity + 30% average severity.

  • 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.