Expert: Norman Solberg - 1/31/2010

Question
My husband and I have recently started trying to get pregnant.  I know the big things such as no smoking or alcohol while pregnant - neither of which are an issue for me.  Over the last month, I've tried to eliminate anything that you are not supposed to use when pregnant.  

I'm in my 30s and have always had minor outbreaks on my face that have been fairly easily controlled with a facial wash containing salicylic acid and topical benzoyl peroxide.  From the internet I've learned that both of those are questionable but not recommended when pregnant.

I have switched to a face wash and toner containing witch hazel. I figured this might be safer since I know a few pregnant women whose doctors recommended Tucks for hemorrhoids when pregnant and those contain witch hazel.

Just wanted to ask what you recommend to women in my position and if you would say that topical witch hazel is safer than salicylic acid/benzoyl peroxide.

Thank you.

Answer
Hello Lisa,
There is no simple answer to your question, because we don't really know anything that's completely safe in early pregnancy.  In general I recommend that women avoid any medication in early pregnancy unless it's necessary.  However, in general, medications put on the skin are fairly safe unless used in excess.  I believe benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are both reasonably safe used on the skin as long as not too much is used.  Witch hazel is considered safe in pregnancy, but whether it's any safer to put on your skin than the other two has never really been studied.  In general I think it's reasonably safe to use all three, just limit the amount.  Best regards.