Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

I was at my friends in NYC last night and I was telling her how I use Proactiv and we were discussing what you can and cannot use during pregnancy.

I told her I use Proactiv b/c it does not have salicylic acid and my Dr. said it was ok.

Well, I had ordered this special night clarifying cream awhile ago that is part of the Proactiv brand and she picked it up off the sink and goes, "but this has salicylic acid in it"...my mouth dropped open...I didn't even realize it and I have been using it almost every night my entire pregnancy. How bad is this?? I am stopping immediately but I feel SO AWFUL.

Re: Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

I use the face wash, toner and night lotion and none of them contain salycic acid. I didn't realize any of the Proactiv products contained it. My dr. said anything was fine as long as it did not contain accutane. I wouldnt worry about it too much. Everyone has a difference of opinion. some people won't even use products containing benzoyl peroxide. Dont worry too much!

Re: Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

my doctor was 100% fine with salicylic acid - I use the Clinique line.

I believe there is a very good article on babycenter.com that talks about salicylic acid - let me see if I can find it.



ETA: from babycenter.com (taking salicylic orally is a big no-no, but topically seems to be okay).

Salicylic acid
This mild acid is used to treat certain skin disorders, including acne, and you can find it in a number of skin products, such as cleansers and toners. It can penetrate facial oils to get deep into pores and clean out dead skin cells. Salicylic acid is in the aspirin family, so it can also help reduce inflammation or redness. BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is a form of salicylic acid and is used in some topical exfoliants to reverse signs of aging.

But salicylic acid is another no-no for pregnant women. High doses of the acid in its oral form have been shown in studies to cause birth defects and various pregnancy complications.

Again, doctors are being cautious by recommending that pregnant women avoid the topical use of salicylic acid. Small amounts applied to the skin — such as a salicylic acid-containing toner used once or twice a day — are considered safe, says Johnson.

But the concern is stronger about face and body peels containing salicylic acid. "This kind of 'soaking' in the ingredient is similar to taking one or more aspirin when pregnant," she explains.

"More product used equals more absorption into the bloodstream," adds Baumann. Always check with your doctor before having a peel treatment. Better yet, she advises, if you must have a peel, have it done professionally at your dermatologist's office. A dermatologist will know how to do it safely during pregnancy.

Message edited 11/19/2006 9:26:40 PM.

Re: Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

My doctor said it was totally fine as well. Don't worry

Re: Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

Thanks ladies. I was panicking a bit and imagining that I did some real damage. I just need to relax...I think once I reach the 2nd trimester I will feel better.

Re: Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

I use a shampoo with Salicyclic Acid and my doctor said it was no problem.

I also use proactiv on and off (can't use it everyday with my face) and my doctor also okayed it as well. I only use the face wash and the liquid. I also haven't really needed it since my face has cleared up since getting pregnant.

Re: Someone please make me feel better re: Salicyclic Acid

Posted by johnsae

Thanks ladies. I was panicking a bit and imagining that I did some real damage. I just need to relax...I think once I reach the 2nd trimester I will feel better.