Is Adapalene safe during pregnancy?
Retinoid sold over the counter (Differin). Most experts advise stopping it during pregnancy.
PregnancyNot recommended
BreastfeedingUse with care
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
AAD says most experts recommend stopping adapalene during pregnancy and lists it among retinoid products not to use; ACOG advises avoiding topical retinoids. Combination gels (e.g., with benzoyl peroxide) contain adapalene too. LactMed: not studied in breastfeeding; blood levels stay very low, so it is probably low risk. Use the smallest area, avoid the nipple area, and keep treated skin away from the baby.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
adapalene gel, differin, differin gel, epiduo
Sources
- AAD: Is any acne treatment safe to use during pregnancy?
- ACOG: Skin Conditions During Pregnancy
- NIH LactMed: Adapalene - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.