Can I use my acne treatment if I’m pregnant or planning to become pregnant?

Hi Zeina,
Your question is really important.
Well it depends on whether the retinoid is taken by mouth or applied to the skin, but neither should be used casually during pregnancy.

💊 Oral isotretinoin: This medication is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy because exposure can cause severe birth defects, pregnancy loss, and premature birth. Pregnancy must be excluded before treatment, and appropriate pregnancy-prevention measures are required during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose.

🧴 Topical retinoids: They are absorbed through the skin in much smaller amounts than oral isotretinoin, so systemic exposure is considerably lower. However, because pregnancy safety has not been established and retinoids are associated with potential fetal risk, topical retinoids are generally avoided during pregnancy as a precaution.

If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or discover that you are pregnant while using a retinoid, stop the treatment and speak with your doctor or pharmacist promptly. For oral isotretinoin exposure during pregnancy, immediate discontinuation and specialist medical evaluation are recommended.