Retinol is a form of vitamin A, and it can be harmful to pregnant women. High doses of vitamin A, including retinol, can cause birth defects in the fetus. It can also increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. In addition, retinol can interfere with the placenta and cause problems with the baby’s growth. For these reasons, it is important for pregnant women to avoid taking products with high levels of retinol, and to consult with their doctor before taking any vitamin A supplements.

Can topical retinol cause birth defects?

Topical retinoids, such as retinol, have not been found to cause birth defects when used during pregnancy. However, it is recommended to avoid using retinol-containing products during pregnancy as it may increase the risk of certain birth defects. Additionally, retinol should not be used on broken skin and should be used with caution in pregnant women.

Why do retinoids cause birth defects?

Retinoids are a class of medications that are derived from vitamin A and are used to treat a variety of medical conditions. The use of retinoids during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of birth defects in babies born to mothers who used retinoids during pregnancy. This increased risk is due to the fact that retinoids are teratogenic, meaning they can interfere with the normal development of a fetus. Retinoids can cause changes in the developing embryo, including changes to the structure of the heart, eyes, and other organs. For this reason, pregnant women are strongly advised to avoid taking retinoids during pregnancy.