MDacne
Which acne products are safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding? We're here to answer that question for you!
The biggest no-no is Accutane – it's NOT okay for pregnant women to take Accutane (The same goes for most oral antibiotics). Read on if you're wondering about the safety of azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and more.
Can I use Topical retinoids during pregnancy?
Examples of topical retinoids used in acne treatment are Adapalene (DifferinTM 0.1% gel, ProactivMDTM) and Retinoic acid (Tretinoin). The amount of topical retinoid absorbed into the skin is relatively low. Still, four published case reports of birth defects are associated with topical Tretinoin use (Which are consistent with retinoid embryopathy). The role of the topical retinoid in these cases remains controversial, as two prospective studies that examined use during the first trimester of pregnancy (With 96 and 106 women) didn't find an increased risk of major malformations or evidence of retinoid embryopathy. However, most dermatologists believe that until more data is collected, women should NOT use topical retinoids during pregnancy.
So how about Differin 0.1% gel (The over-the-counter version)? In studies, no teratogenic effects were seen in rats at oral doses of adapalene 0.15 to 5.0 mg/kg/day, up to 120 times the maximal daily human topical dose. However, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies on pregnant women, so the FDA states: Adapalene should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Regarding nursing mothers, the FDA says that it's not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Differin gel is administered to a nursing woman."
Can I use azelaic acid during pregnancy?
The FDA states that there are no adequate and well-controlled studies of topically administered azelaic acid in pregnant women. The experience with azelaic Gel, 15%, when used by pregnant women, is too limited to permit assessment of the safety of its use during pregnancy. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. For nursing moms, the FDA says: Since less than 4% of a topically applied dose of azelaic acid cream, 20%, is systemically absorbed, the uptake of azelaic acid into maternal milk is not expected to cause a significant change from baseline azelaic acid levels in the milk. However, caution should be exercised when Azelaic Gel, 15%, is administered to a nursing mother.
Can I use benzoyl peroxide during pregnancy?
When benzoyl peroxide is applied topically, only 5% is absorbed through the skin, and then it is completely metabolized to benzoic acid within the skin and excreted unchanged in the urine. No studies on using this preparation in pregnant patients have been published — however, systemic effects on a pregnant woman and her child would not be expected. Therefore the use of this product during pregnancy would not be of concern.
Can I use salicylic acid during pregnancy?
Here's what we know about salicylic acid: It's an FDA-cleared anti-acne ingredient in concentrations of 0.5%-2%. Several studies have been published in which researchers examined the outcomes of women who had taken low-dose acetylsalicylic acid during pregnancy. There was no increase in the baseline risk of adverse events (Such as major malformations, preterm birth, or low birth weight). No studies have been conducted in pregnancy on topical use. Still, as such a relatively small proportion is absorbed through the skin, it is unlikely to pose any risk to a developing baby.
Conclusions:
Retinol and other retinoids should not be used when pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid into the bloodstream are negligible and are usually allowed for use during the 2 and 3 rd trimesters and when breastfeeding. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive should consult with their local physician before using any acne medications - oral or topical.
Shop:
- Product E Beauty Blue LED + Acne Light Therapy
- Hydraskincare 3 Light Therapy
- Solawave Blue & Red Light Home use Device
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