Retinol is one of the most recognized ingredients in the skincare market, for treating fine lines, uneven texture, and acne. This powerful ingredient is highly recommended by dermatologists because of its well-documented anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating properties. 1
Many hormonal changes occur during pregnancy. It can affect the skin by causing acne, pigmentation and dullness. It might be tempting to reach for your multipurpose retinol serum, but experts recommend avoiding retinol while pregnant. 2
Keep reading this article to learn what retinol is, if it's safe for use during pregnancy, the possible risks, pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients, and when you can safely start using it again postpartum.
Key Takeaways
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What Is Retinol?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is part of a group of compounds known as retinoids. This ingredient is a less potent form of a prescription retinoid, but provides visible results with continued use. When applied, it is converted to retinoic acid, which promotes cell turnover and boosts collagen production. It is a common active ingredient in over-the-counter skin care products that treat:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne and acne scars
- Uneven skin tone
- Hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage
- Enlarged pores 1
Is Retinol Safe to Use During Pregnancy?
The simple answer is no. Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy by dermatologists and obstetricians. Topical form is not safe for a developing baby, though the extent of the absorption through the skin is less compared to prescription oral retinoids. You should stop using retinol if you are:
- Pregnant
- Trying to conceive
- Suspecting you may be pregnant
- Undergoing fertility treatment
For every product you use, make sure to read the ingredient list carefully. Retinol may also appear under names such as retinal, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinyl propionate, adapalene, tretinoin, or other retinoid derivatives. 1
What Are the Risks of Using Retinol During Pregnancy?
Potential Risk of Birth Defects
Exposure to high doses of vitamin A derivatives disrupts fetal development. It has been associated with birth defects of the brain, heart, face, eyes and central nervous system.
Limited Safety Evidence
There are no large clinical trials confirming retinol is entirely safe while pregnant. Due to the insufficient research, doctors recommend against unnecessary exposure of retinol in pregnant patients. 4
Increased Vitamin A Exposure
Using multiple skincare products containing retinol or excess vitamin A supplements could raise your total vitamin A levels. Excess vitamin A could be harmful to a developing baby in pregnancy. 2
Skin Irritation and Increased Sensitivity
Pregnancy could make your skin extra sensitive. The skin changes during pregnancy, such as dryness, redness, peeling, irritation, and sun sensitivity can be aggravated by retinols. 1
What Are the Safe Alternatives to Retinol to Use During Pregnancy?
You can still care for your skin during pregnancy. There are safer ingredients to treat acne, pigmentation, and anti-aging concerns during pregnancy.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is one of the safest ingredients in pregnancy. It helps improve acne, post-inflammatory marks, rosacea and uneven skin tone. 5
Vitamin C
This vitamin C is an antioxidant that brightens the skin, stimulates collagen in the body and protects against environmental stress. It is safe to add to your skincare routine in pregnancy. 5
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 or Niacinamide is known to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce redness, improve pigmentation and reduce excess oil production. Most skin types tolerate this ingredient well during pregnancy. 6
Glycolic Acid (in low concentrations)
Low-strength glycolic acid products could be used in pregnancy after consulting your healthcare provider. It gently exfoliates the skin, leading to an improvement in texture. 4
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid targets pigmentation and is one of the safest skincare ingredients that is tolerated by sensitive pregnancy skin. 6
Ceramides
Ceramides moisturize the skin gently and support the skin barrier. It helps in keeping skin healthy during pregnancy. 7
Sunscreen
Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50 is one of the best ways to prevent pigmentation, premature skin aging and sun damage in pregnancy. 7
When Is It Safe to Start Using Retinol Again?
Retinol can be reintroduced after pregnancy once your doctor approves. But, breastfeeding requires additional consideration. While the evidence is limited, many doctors advise to avoid it until breastfeeding has ended. If your doctor approves retinol while breastfeeding:
- Do not apply it near the chest or nipple area.
- Wash your hands well when you finish applying the product.
- Use it only as directed.
- Start on a low-strength retinol to lessen aggravation. 8
Bottom Line
Retinol is a beneficial skincare ingredient, but it is not safe during pregnancy. While topical form is absorbed in smaller amounts, there is insufficient evidence to state that it is safe for the developing fetus. Discontinue retinol if you are trying to conceive or learnt that you are pregnant. Instead, use safer skincare ingredients such as azelaic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. If you have used retinol during your pregnancy unintentionally, please discontinue and speak with your doctor for personalized advice.
Frequently Ask Questions
1. Can I still use retinol on my face while pregnant?
No. Most healthcare professionals advise against using retinol during pregnancy because vitamin A derivatives may pose potential risks to the developing baby.
2. What skincare should I avoid when pregnant?
During pregnancy, it is generally recommended to avoid products containing retinol, prescription retinoids, high doses of vitamin A derivatives, hydroquinone, and high-concentration chemical peels unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider.
3. What should I do if I accidentally used retinol while pregnant?
Stop using the retinol product as soon as you realise you are pregnant and consult your obstetrician or dermatologist. Accidental short-term use does not necessarily mean harm to your baby, but your healthcare provider can offer personalised advice and reassurance.
4. When should I stop retinol before pregnancy?
It is recommended to stop using retinol when you begin trying to conceive or as advised by your doctor. Discontinuing retinol before pregnancy helps minimise any potential risks during the earliest stages of fetal development.
5. Does retinol affect female fertility?
There is currently no evidence that topical retinol affects female fertility. However, many healthcare professionals recommend stopping retinol while trying to conceive because pregnancy can occur before it is recognised.
6. What alternatives to retinol are safe during pregnancy?
Pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients include azelaic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, low-strength glycolic acid, kojic acid, and daily broad-spectrum sunscreen. These ingredients can help address common skin concerns while being generally considered safe during pregnancy.
