Best Face Forward: Safe Beauty Products for Pregnancy and Nursing

Acne Treatment & Wrinkle Creams

Acne, a common complaint for many expecting women, is an unfortunate and common side effect of the hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy.

Small amounts of toners or creams containing beta hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid, applied to the skin once or twice a day are considered safe. Steer clear of products that cover more surface area or sit on the skin for longer time periods—they are more likely to be absorbed into your skin. Products such as peels or masks containing salicylic acid are best avoided altogether.

Dr. Leslie Baumann, PhD, the author of The Skin Type Solution and a professor of dermatology at the University of Miami, says a facial cleanser for acne that has two percent or less salicylic acid is safe for use. Products containing alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, are also safe.

Are you fighting both acne and wrinkles? Many wrinkle-reducing creams have something called retinoids on their list of ingredients. Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that protects collagen from breaking down. Most experts agree that pregnant and nursing women should avoid products containing retinoids. When used in large quantities (according to research on the use of vitamin A), retinoids can cause dangerous levels of Vitamin A for the baby.

Oral retinoids, such as Accutane (used for treatment of acne), are known to cause birth defects and should not be taken under any circumstance. There is no research to show that topical use (skin) poses a danger to your baby, but doctors prefer to err on the side of caution and advise women to avoid them.

See a dermatologist for unusual changes in your skin or with questions for safe ways to deal with skin-related issues.