Skincare Contains Retinol Is Not Allowed For Pregnant Women, Recognize Skin Care Ingredients That Are Safe

Retinol illustration is not allowed for pregnant women (Freepik/coconie_studio)

YOGYAKARTA There are many things that need to be changed during pregnancy. Including skincare ingredients that were originally used, it must be adjusted for the safety of the fetus in the womb. Skincare products that contain retinol should be avoided when pregnant.

Retinol is formulated in skincare for many functions. Starting from anti-aging to overcoming skin problems, namely acne. But for pregnant women, it is necessary to avoid skincare that contains retinol.

Retinol is included in a chemical group known as a retinoid. Retinoids and retinols are chemicals that come from vitamin A, explained certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD. Usually some serums, gels, and skin care creams use these chemicals. Skincare with retinol or retinoids, can cause dry skin, redness, and peeling. Skin must adapt at the first time using it. Wearing skincare with retinol, also days with sunscreen. Because retinol makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

While there is no evidence to suggest that a topical derivation of vitamin A such as retinol causes birth defects, we are very careful with this topical and suggest avoiding it during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We know that ingredients applied to the skin have the potential to be absorbed into the bloodstream and forwarded to the baby through the placenta, "explained Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist reported by Parents, Tuesday, September 10.

Research confirms that retinol can transfer from parent to baby via placenta, and 60 times more during breastfeeding. The American Academy of Dermatology Association specifically mentions retinoids in the list of unsafe ingredients during pregnancy and must be stopped immediately. The reason is, the risk is too large. The possibility of retinol during pregnancy triggers conditions called retinoid syndrome, which are physical and mental defect patterns related to retinol. Types of abnormalities and severity vary, but tend to affect prenatal and postnatal growth, along with some systems in the fetus.

"It is estimated that there is a risk of 18% to 28% of developmental defects in embryos or fetuses. The most common disorder [which occurs] is cryophative malformation, heart, central nervous system, and timus," said Dr. Murphy-Rose.

Some babies show abnormalities in the facial structure when skincare contains retinoids used during pregnancy. Including small and low ears, no ears, inner ear shape disorders, wide eyes, lack of progress in the middle part of the face, cleft sky or lips, facial nerve paralysis, and heart shape disorders. The use of retinoids while pregnant, also makes babies at risk of cardiovascular disorders.

Because skincare contains retinol is not allowed for pregnant women, alternatively, they can use skincare with cojic acid, azelaic acid, and glycolic acid, explained doctor Nazarian. Skincare contains vitamin C can also be used, although it does not prevent acne such as retinol. Murphy-Rose advises, look for products that contain high quality L-ascorbic acid for the best results.

"Niacinamide is also allowed, because it comes from vitamin B3 which helps repair acne, calms the skin, and protects damage caused by sunlight. In addition, skincare with hyaluronic acid and ceramide can be used during pregnancy, said Nazarian.