You like the results you’ve gotten and you’re happy with your treatment.
Then, a little pink line appears on a stick.
And you start to wonder.
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Is it OK to use Retin-A while you’re pregnant?
Can it cause any problems for a developing fetus?
That said, the absorption of Retin-A into the body is very minimal.
So, if you used tretinoin, realized you were pregnant, and then stopped, don’t worry.
It’s very unlikely that the small amount absorbed would do anything to a developing fetus.
Topical tretinoin is very different fromoral tretinoin and oral isotretinoin, however.
There is evidence that tretinoin taken by mouth can cause harm to a developing fetus.
Isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects, and should absolutely never be taken during pregnancy.
Retin-A and other topicaltretinoinmedications likeRetin-A Micro, Renova, and Avita are drugs derived from vitamin A.
High amounts of oral vitamin A have been shown to cause birth defects.
Some people find that their skin looks better during pregnancy.
For others, being pregnant makes acne all that much worse.
Your dermatologist can revise your treatment plan and may recommend some non-drug options for you to try.
Your healthcare provider will have plenty of pregnancy-safe suggestions for treating your acne.
If you find yourself pregnant while using Retin-A, stop the treatment and let your healthcare provider know.
Know that your skin will change postpartum too.
