SKINIPEDIA - Skinipedia TV: Skin Care & Retinoids Vitamin A

Skinipedia TV, Episode #01
Should you use skin care products containing RETINOIDS while Pregnant/Nursing?

When you are pregnant or nursing, everything you eat, apply, or come into contact with may affect not only you but also your baby. Because some topical ingredients get absorbed into the bloodstream, there are some you want to avoid. One of those ingredients is Retinoids.

Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that speed up cell division (quickening your skin's renewal) and prevent your skin collagen from breaking down. As we age, retinoids are considered one of the top anti-aging superstars and naturally, we want to incorporate this powerful ingredient into our skin care routine.

However, retinoids are one of the skin-care ingredients that experts recommend that expectant and breast feeding moms stay away from. Some studies have shown that high doses of vitamin A during pregnancy can be harmful to an unborn child. Oral retinoids, such as isotretinoin (more commonly known as Accutane, an acne treatment), are known to cause birth defects. Do not worry if you are pregnant or nursing and have been using a skin care product that does contain a retinoid. To date there is no data to show that retinoid ingredients are harmful when topically applied to the skin. But, because retinoids applied to the skin can be absorbed, we still run the risk of reaching a harmful dose of Vitamin A.

When choosing a skin care product, (especially during pregnancy and breast feeding) it is always best to familiarize yourself with the ingredients. There are many ways retinoids can appear in your ingredient list, so look for the following names in your skin care products:

Differin (adapelene)

Retin-A, Renova (tretinoin)

Retinoic acid

Retinol

Retinyl linoleate

Retinyl palmitate

Tazorac and avage (Tazarotene)

We want to stress that it is always best to consult your doctor on issues such as this because he or she is the one who is most aware of your personal health and because it's his or her specific field of study. The following information is only our viewpoint, and although it is based on research, it is still essential that you review it with your physician.

Our bottom line for retinoid use during pregnancy and breast feeding is that it is best to avoid. But don’t feel like your missing out by not using this anti-aging superstar. Your body will be producing its own natural anti-aging super star (hyluranic acid) giving you that natural glow during your pregnancy.

 

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