SKINIPEDIA - Skinipedia TV: Salicylic Acid during Pregnancy

Skinipedia TV, Episode #03:
Salicylic Acid use during Pregnancy and Nursing?

Salicylic acid is a mild acid used to treat certain skin conditions, including acne. You can find it in a number of skin products, such as cleansers and toners. This ingredient does a great job of penetrating facial oils to get deep into pores and clean out dead skin cells. Since salicylic acid is in the aspirin family, it can also help reduce inflammation and redness. Another form of salicylic acid is BHA, or beta hydroxy acid. Salicylic acid in this form is commonly used in some topical exfoliants to reverse the signs of aging.

But salicylic acid is another no-no for pregnant women. High doses of the acid in its oral form have been shown in studies to cause birth defects and various pregnancy complications. Because of this research, doctors are also being cautious by recommending that pregnant women avoid the topical use of salicylic acid on the face and body as well. Remember that the more product used equals more absorption into the bloodstream- so a product for the body could be more harmful.

The biggest concern tends to be face and body peels containing salicylic acid. This kind of 'soaking' in the ingredient is similar to taking one or more aspirin when pregnant (which doctors highly advise against). Always check with your doctor before having a peel treatment with your esthetician and be sure to tell your esthetician if you are pregnant or nursing before any treatments are performed.

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

Salicylic acid

Beta hydroxy acid

BHA

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 salicylic acid use during pregnancy and breast feeding is that it is best to avoid. There are other effective ingredients that can help treat acne and aging without the risks to your baby. Look for products containing Alpha hydroxy acids, sometimes listed as AHAs, glycolic acid, or lactic acid. Research points to these products as safe to use during pregnancy and nursing.

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