Hi there,
I am worried sick right now. I am 12 weeks pregnant, and I just found out that the facial moisturizer/sunscreen I've been using for the last 12 weeks has retinol in it. It is Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer with Accelerated Retinol SA (sustained action), and apparently, the company claims that Retinol SA is distinct from Retinol (and deserved a patent) because of its ability to penetrate the skin and continue to work for 12 hours after its application. I use it on my face, about a quarter size, about 4 times/week. I am so worried that this deeper-penetrating retinol has seeped into my skin, into my bloodstream, to harm my baby and cause birth defects.
Every website I look at says to avoid topical retinol during pregnancy for fear of birth defects. I am sick with worry, and would appreciate the response of a doctor that can tell me if I've caused risk/harm to my growing baby, or not.
Thank you,
~Worried Sick~