Acne Medications, Retinols, and Salicylic Acid

Products such as Accutane, Retin-A and tetracycline are all prescription antiacne meds that should absolutely be avoided when pregnant. Because they are taken at such high doses to fight off acne-causing bacteria, they can also cause serious birth defects. Additionally, over-the-counter products containing low doses of retinoids or salicylic acid (often found in antiaging lotions and spot treatments) are also unsafe. Although there is no proof that they cause birth defects, they do contain Vitamin A, which can be harmful to a fetus in high doses. As an extra precaution, it's advisable to avoid them if possible. If you suffer from acne, it is best to be treated after your baby is born and you are through nursing.

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