Would 1% salicylic medication applied to the face be ok during pregnancy?

Yes: High doses of salicylic acid in its oral form have been shown in studies to cause birth defects and various pregnancy complications. To be cautious, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid the topical use of salicylic acid but small amounts applied to the skin — such as a 1% salicylic acid-containing toner used once or twice a day — are considered safe.