If you're pregnant or planning to have a baby, you've probably come across a long list of things to avoid. From certain foods to medications, some things that are safe for others can be dangerous during pregnancy. Among these, one alarming beauty product that many doctors warn about is retinol, a popular ingredient in many anti-ageing and acne products.
Recently, Dr Laraib Shahid, PharmD, reacted to a TikTok video explaining why pregnant women are advised to stop using retinol. The video shows heartbreaking images of children born with birth defects, such as cleft palate syndrome and underdeveloped skulls, possibly linked to retinol use during pregnancy. But why is retinol considered dangerous for expectant mothers? What is retinol? Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is widely used in skincare products.
It’s commonly found in anti-ageing creams, serums, and acne treatments. Retinol works by speeding up cell turnover, which helps to reduce wrinkles, acne, and dark spots. While it’s highly effective for skincare, its strength is what makes it risky for pregnant women.
Why retinol is dangerous during pregnancy According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), Foetal Retinoid Syndrome is a condition where mental and physical birth defects can occur if a mother takes retinoids during pregnancy. Retinoids, like isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane), are used to treat severe acne but are known to cause developmental issues in a foetus. The risk of birth defe.