Can You Use Retinol While Pregnant? Here's the Truth

The short answer: No. 

The longer answer: retinol is a form of vitamin A. In high doses, vitamin A has been linked to birth defects. That's why dermatologists and OB-GYNs agree that retinol, retinoids, and prescription-strength tretinoin are off the table during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

But here's where it gets frustrating.

Pregnancy is often when hyperpigmentation shows up for the first time. Melasma, the "mask of pregnancy" affects 50-70% of pregnant women. Hormones trigger melanin production, and suddenly you're dealing with dark patches you've never had before.

And postpartum? Your skin doesn't magically reset. Many women find their melasma sticks around for months or even years. But if you're breastfeeding, retinol is still not recommended. The waiting game continues.

So what can you actually use?

That's why we formulated with Chontaduro. It is a natural alternative to retinol from Latin America, It delivers similar benefits to retinol supporting cell turnover, helping to fade dark spots without the restrictions. When Carolina was developing the Clear Confidence Moisturizer and Hydrating Dew Moisturizer, she kept hearing from pregnant women who felt like the skincare industry didn't provide a solution for them. Their concerns shaped everything about how we formulate. 

You shouldn't have to pause taking care of your skin for two years just because you're growing your family. You can take care of your skin and your family too!