Alia Bhatt loves skincare. Her YouTube channel is proof. In a new video with her sister Shaheen Bhatt, Alia revealed her current skincare routine. But there was no mention of a star ingredient, retinol.
I’m almost certain that she has boycotted Retinol. I know the claim is presumptuous. But hear me out. Most of us have put the ingredient on a pedestal, but studies suggest that Retinol is dangerous for moms during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
I’ve even reached out to Dr Madhuri Agarwal, Founder & Medical Director of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic, for more clarity on the subject.
Retinol Can Terminate Pregnancies
Retinol is a type of retinoid. Retinoids are a class of compounds derived from Vitamin A. Retinoids, when ingested, have been proven to cause abnormalities like congenital and spinal cord defects in babies. Even miscarriages have been linked to them. This is along with the risk of premature/pre-term births as per Dr Agarwal.
One such example of a retinoid is isotretinoin (or Accutane). This acne-treating medication has proven to cause defects in a foetus’ heart, face, mouth, and glands.
While studies haven’t blatantly suggested that the topical application of retinoids can impact a woman’s pregnancy, doctors strongly suggest against risking it. Because just like caffeine and alcohol, Retinol is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. This means that there’s always a risk.
Can Hurt A Developing Baby While Breastfeeding
There’s reason to believe that Alia’s not using Retinol even now — provided she’s breastfeeding Raha, who is just 3 months old. No one knows how much of the ingredient is passed on to a child through their mother’s milk.
All that’s known is that the absorption is 60 times more while breastfeeding. Considering retinoids have been linked to side effects like mental and physical deformities in babies during pregnancy, it’s best to steer clear of the ingredient during this period.
Start Retinol Only After You’re Done Breastfeeding
According to Dr Madhuri, if you’re not breastfeeding, you can work Retinol back into your routine again. But if you are, start only after you’re done with your entire period of breastfeeding.
Consider Using Anti-Ageing Alternatives
To build a safe pregnancy skincare routine, consider other ingredients. Bakuchiol is a plant-based anti-ageing ingredient that works just like Retinol. Apart from being pregnancy-friendly, it’s gentle on the skin.
No breakouts or redness. No inflammation. Peptides and resveratrol are some other anti-ageing alternatives to consider too. And you also have Vitamin C to rely on.
You can use the Dr. Sheth’s Bakuchiol & Peptide Serum since it contains both peptides and Bakuchiol. And the Goji Berry Face Serum with Vitamin C is perfect for brightening, anti-ageing, and reducing pigmentation.
Beware Of These Skincare Ingredients
It’s recommended to avoid Vitamin A derivates in general. Other ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, oxybenzone (sunscreen), Hydroquinone, Arbutin, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, and essential oils are best avoided too.
From Rihanna to Alia to Blake, I’m certain that these mothers are assessing their beauty routines thoroughly. You should too!
Featured Image: Instagram