Is retinol safe when trying to conceive?

A patient asked me a great question, which seemed fitting to share here. She has issues with hyperpigmentation, so she was using retinol each evening. Her question was:

Is it ok to use retinol when trying to conceive?

Great question! Here’s what we know:

+ What is retinol?

Retinol is an over-the-counter topical in the Vitamin A family. It is used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce the appearance of sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin texture. 

+ Any side effects?

Retinol can irritate the skin, leading to dryness, redness, itching, and peeling skin. It can also exacerbate eczema and acne in some. 

+ Safe in pregnancy?

No. Retinol is similar to isotretinoin, a drug form of Vitamin A that may cause severe birth defects. While retinol is applied on the skin and not taken internally, the dose is likely much lower. However, we don’t know precisely the amount that is safe to avoid birth defects, so it is commonly recommended to be avoided.

+ What can I use instead?

Consider an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) in a concentration less than 10%, though 7% may be the sweet spot for when you are trying to conceive or currently pregnant. AHAs are exfoliants, making your skin more sensitive to sunlight and UV light exposure. Using an excellent mineral-based sunblock rated at 30SPF or more is vital. 

Have a question? Submit it here.

Image by Humphrey Muleba.