One of the most common questions we get at the Pregnancy and Newborn Health Education
Center is about skin care during pregnancy. More specifically, about
products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These
over-the-counter cleansers and lotions are used to treat topical acne. Many of
us use them every day, without even thinking about it. But during pregnancy,
you may wonder if you should continue to use these products in your skin care
routine.
According to MotherToBaby,
a service of the non-profit Organization of Teratology Information Specialists,
“Over-the-counter skin treatments have not been associated with an increased
risk when used during pregnancy. Studies have shown that in most cases only 5%
to 10% of the active ingredients are absorbed through the skin into your
system. Since so little of the medication passes into the body, the amount that
gets to the developing baby, if any, is unlikely to be high enough to cause
birth defects.”
However, you should be careful and make sure you do not
apply them to broken or irritated skin. That would allow more of the
ingredients to be absorbed. Also, it is very important to make the distinction
between these products and topical retinoids. Topical retinoids are used to
treat acne and sun-damaged skin. Small amounts of these drugs may be absorbed
through the skin into the bloodstream, so it is best to avoid them. You should
never take oral retinoids during your pregnancy or if you are trying to
conceive.
Keep in mind that there are many over-the-counter topical
treatments available for acne. So you should make sure you talk to your health
care provider if you have any questions and concerns. And always talk to your
doctor before you take any oral medication during pregnancy, for acne or any other
condition.