Navigating Skincare During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy is a time filled with both joy and uncertainty, especially when it comes to health and wellness. With a plethora of advice from doctors, friends, family, and social media, it can feel overwhelming. Among the myriad of topics to consider, skincare ingredients—particularly retinoids—are often surrounded by confusion. This article aims to clarify the use of retinoids and offer practical skincare advice for expectant mothers.
Understanding Retinoids
Retinoids are compounds derived from Vitamin A, widely used to address various skin concerns, including acne, wrinkles, and pigmentation. According to chemist Michelle Wong, retinoids are considered the “gold standard” in skincare due to their versatility and effectiveness.
Retinoids exist in multiple forms, ranging from prescription medications like isotretinoin, which treats severe acne, to over-the-counter options like retinol and retinal, commonly found in skincare creams.
Isotretinoin and its packaging.
(Supplied: Sam Yarwood)
Safety Documentation
It’s important to note that oral retinoids are not recommended for pregnant women due to potential risks of birth defects, a warning clearly stated on their packaging. The safety of topical retinoid products, however, is less straightforward.
Conflicting Guidance for Pregnant Women
According to NSW Health’s Mothersafe service, over-the-counter topical retinoids are deemed safe for pregnant women because they are applied externally and in weaker concentrations. Wong concurs, suggesting that standard retinol products should be safe as long as they are used correctly.
Retinoids are often used to treat acne.
(Pixabay: Sharon McCutcheon/ABC Life: Daniel Mee)
However, many healthcare professionals advise against using any type of retinoid during pregnancy. Dr. Laura Gerhady emphasizes the lack of substantial research regarding topical retinoids, pointing out that pregnant individuals often use them for non-urgent skin conditions, like acne.
Types of Retinoids
Prescription-Only Options:
- Isotretinoin: Strong oral retinoid for acne.
- Tretinoin: Topical retinoid for treating acne and signs of aging.
- Tazarotene: Used for acne and psoriasis.
- Trifarotene: A topical cream for acne.
Non-Prescription Options:
- Adapalene: A topical retinoid available directly from pharmacies.
- Retinol: A milder retinoid found in over-the-counter skincare.
- Retinal: Stronger than retinol but still weaker than prescription retinoids.
There are no universal regulations for labeling cosmetic products containing retinoids. Only products containing adapalene, which recently shifted from prescription to pharmacy-only status, require specific warnings.
Dr. Gerhady highlights the challenge in labeling, noting that the available data doesn’t provide clear safety guidelines for topical retinoids during pregnancy.
Using Topical Retinoids Accidentally
If you unintentionally used a topical retinoid while pregnant, Dr. Wong urges not to panic. She reassures that the amount of product absorbed through the skin is minimal and generally not a cause for concern.
Recent studies, including one from Nordic researchers, suggest that using topical retinoids does not significantly increase the risk of birth defects, although more research is necessary for definitive conclusions.
Other Skincare Ingredients to Consider
While retinoids remain a topic of discussion, it’s essential to be cautious with other skincare products during pregnancy. Professor Deshan Sebaratnam advises avoiding:
- Minoxidil: Used for hair growth.
- Hydroquinone: Treats dark spots.
Dr. Wong warns about unregulated products and high doses of salicylic acid, suggesting that expectant mothers should verify their safety with healthcare providers.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety and Simplicity
For pregnant women, the best approach to skincare involves simplicity and caution. It’s advisable to use well-regulated products, avoid high-risk ingredients, and consult with healthcare practitioners about any skincare concerns.
By taking these steps and staying informed, you can navigate your skincare journey during pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind. Remember, prioritizing the health of both you and your baby is the most crucial aspect of this exciting journey.
