Franca speaks frankly: I’ve heard that you should avoid putting certain ingredients on your skin when you’re pregnant. Are salicylic acid, self-tanners, and sunscreens safe to use whey you’re expecting? Are there any other ingredients or skincare products pregnant women should avoid?

The Right Brain gestates this reply:

Experts agree that you should limit unnecessary drug exposure when you’re pregnant. Here’s what we found out from two expert sources: the American Pregnancy Association and American Academy of Dermatologists.

1. Retin–A (Isotretinoin)

This prescribed acne medication can cause cardiac problems in a fetus.

2. Minoxidil

Aka Rogaine, the over-the-counter hair loss drug, is also known to contribute to birth defects.

3. Fluconazole

A topical antifungal drug, can also be teratogenic (causes birth defects).

4. Sunscreens and Sunless Tanners

Fortunately, these appear to fine. There have been no reports of babies born with problems related to the mother’s use of sunscreens. In fact, since UV radiation may cause folic acid deficiency, which can lead to neural tube defects like spina bifida, sunscreens could actually help!

5. Salicylic acid facial products

We couldn’t find any mention of risk from these products either. But muscle creams containing a related compound (methyl salicylate) can be dangerous if overused, even if you’re not pregnant.

We hope this info is helpful but please be sure to check with your doctor to make sure you’re doing everything right for your baby’s health.