Pregnant women are advised to avoid using skincare products that contain retinol or other forms of vitamin A, such as retinoids, retinoic acid, and tretinoin. This is because high doses of vitamin A have been linked to birth defects and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Retinol is a powerful antioxidant and a derivative of vitamin A that is commonly used in skincare products to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. However, when taken in large doses or used topically in high concentrations, retinol can cross the placenta and accumulate in the developing fetus, which may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy.
While the risk of birth defects associated with topical use of retinol in skincare products is not fully understood, it is generally recommended that pregnant women avoid using products containing retinol or other forms of vitamin A to reduce any potential risk to the developing fetus. If you are pregnant and concerned about the safety of any skincare product, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before use.