Navigating Beauty Product Safety During Pregnancy
By Chris Stallman, Certified Genetic Counselor at MotherToBaby Arizona and host of The MotherToBaby Podcast
As a teratogen information specialist, I frequently receive questions about whether certain products might be harmful during pregnancy. With June’s National Safety Month highlighting the importance of reducing unintentional injuries, it’s the perfect time to explore this topic. The answer to the question, “Can this product be harmful to me or my pregnancy?” is often yes, depending on the product and its use. However, before making drastic lifestyle changes, let’s delve into the details.
The Importance of Dosage
Any substance can be toxic if consumed or absorbed in excessive amounts, even something as innocuous as water. The key is understanding the dose. For example, while 8-10 glasses of water a day is safe, consuming 8-10 gallons can lead to toxicity. The same principle applies to beauty products during pregnancy.
Common Beauty Products and Pregnancy
Retinoids
Retinoids, including vitamin A derivatives like retinoic acid and isotretinoin, are common in acne treatments. While oral isotretinoin (Accutane®) is known to cause birth defects, the risk with topical retinoids is less clear due to lower absorption levels. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with healthcare providers before use.
Salicylic Acid
Related to aspirin, salicylic acid is found in many skincare products. Low doses of oral aspirin are generally considered safe during pregnancy, and the topical use of salicylic acid is unlikely to pose a risk when used as directed. However, overuse can lead to serious health issues.
Hair Dye
When used correctly, hair dye absorption through the scalp is minimal and not expected to harm a pregnancy. However, beware of products made outside the US, which may contain harmful substances. Always use gloves, and avoid using dyes on eyebrows or eyelashes to prevent serious eye irritation.
In summary, beauty products can be used during pregnancy, with caution regarding specific ingredients and usage frequency. When uncertain, consult a professional.
Resources for Concerns
If you suspect toxic exposure, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. For questions about everyday exposures during pregnancy or breastfeeding, reach out to MotherToBaby at 1-866-626-6847.
Chris Stallman, a certified genetic counselor based in Tucson, Arizona, is the host of The MotherToBaby Podcast, providing evidence-based answers about pregnancy exposures. Listen to episodes on iTunes, Google Play Music, or Spotify. Chris works for The University of Arizona as a Teratogen Information Specialist at MotherToBaby Arizona.
About MotherToBaby
MotherToBaby is a service of the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS) and a recommended resource by agencies like the CDC. Contact MotherToBaby for pregnancy exposure questions at 866-626-6847 or text (855) 999-3525. Visit MotherToBaby.org for a library of fact sheets or download the MotherToBaby app. Subscribe to The MotherToBaby Podcast on iTunes, Google Play Music, Spotify, and more.
