How does retinol affect baby?

Understanding Retinol and Its Effects on Babies
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is widely celebrated in the skincare industry for its ability to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and combat acne. However, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding raises significant concerns regarding the health of the baby.
Risks During Pregnancy
The consensus among healthcare professionals is clear: retinol products are not recommended during pregnancy. This caution stems from the potential risks associated with vitamin A derivatives, which can lead to congenital disabilities if ingested in high doses. While topical retinol is less potent than oral retinoids, there are still concerns about its absorption through the skin and subsequent effects on fetal development. Reports have indicated that even topical applications could pose risks, as some babies have been born with congenital conditions linked to maternal use of retinoids.
Breastfeeding Considerations
The debate continues for breastfeeding mothers. Although there is no definitive evidence that topical retinol harms infants during breastfeeding, experts advise against its use as a precautionary measure. The rationale is that while the absorption of retinol through the skin is lower than that of oral retinoids, the potential for any amount to enter the bloodstream and affect the baby remains a concern. Thus, many healthcare providers recommend that breastfeeding mothers avoid retinol to err on the side of caution.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For those seeking to maintain their skincare routines during pregnancy and breastfeeding, dermatologists suggest exploring safer alternatives. Products that are free from retinoids and other potentially harmful ingredients can help manage skin concerns without posing risks to the baby.
In summary, while retinol is a powerful skincare ingredient, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is fraught with potential risks. The prevailing advice is to avoid retinol altogether during these critical periods to ensure the health and safety of the baby.

Does topical retinol get into the bloodstream?

Some studies suggest that when applied to the skin, less of the medication is absorbed and enters your bloodstream. But there are reports of babies born with congenital conditions after topical retinoid use by their birth parent.

What age is too early for retinol?

While there’s no right or wrong age to begin using retinol, most dermatologists recommend fitting it into your skin care routine during your 20s. The reason? “The production of collagen fibers starts to decline in our 20s,” explains Dr. Allison Arthur, MD, FAAD, at Sand Lake Dermatology Center.

When to stop retinol when trying to conceive?

When to stop using retinol in pregnancy – and whether to continue when breastfeeding. “When counselling patients in clinic who plan to conceive, my advice is to stop using retinoids (oral or topical) once they cease using contraception and start trying for a baby,” Dr. Bunting tells me.

What happens if you use retinol in first trimester?

Taking isotretinoin or other oral retinoids during pregnancy can cause serious problems for your baby. These medicines are so dangerous for a baby that users have to agree to use birth control while they’re on the medicine so they don’t get pregnant.

What happens if a child uses retinol?

Why is retinol cream harmful for children? One of the main problems of using retinol cream as a child or teen is that this can disrupt the natural balance of the skin. Typically, children and young teens have skin that is still resilient and is developing and adapting to the environment.

Can I use retinol if my wife is pregnant?

To be completely safe, you should avoid topical retinoid products during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Over-the-counter retinol-based skin products are likely safer during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They come in a cream or lotion that’s applied to your skin.

Does retinol affect babies?

Babies exposed to retinoids during pregnancy may have a wide variety of symptoms. Some may have no symptoms at all, others may have only intellectual and learning problems, while others will have very severe symptoms.

What happens if you use retinol while breastfeeding?

Retinol is not safe for use by breastfeeding moms because it can be absorbed into your bloodstream through your skin – and if Retinol does pass into your bloodstream, from there it can also pass into your breast milk. This means that your baby could potentially ingest Retinol through your breast milk.

What skincare should kids not use?

Which skincare products should children stay away from? Products with retinol, high-strength AHAs, other acids and “active ingredients” are not meant for young, developing skin. Parents, it’s time to put the parental controls on skincare just as you would for any gaming or social media platform.

What happens if you accidentally use retinol while pregnant?

The topical use of retinol and retinoids may contribute to high levels of vitamin A in the body. During pregnancy, this may cause serious harm to a fetus. Oral use of retinoids significantly increases this risk. Fetal retinoid syndrome (FRS) is a condition caused by taking retinoids during pregnancy.