Popular Nigerian health influencer and medical doctor, Egemba Fidelis, widely known as Aproko Doctor, has urged pregnant women to exercise extreme caution when choosing skincare products, warning that some widely used cosmetic ingredients could harm unborn babies.
In a video shared with his over two million Instagram followers on Monday, Aproko Doctor specifically highlighted retinol and related compounds as the most dangerous skincare components during pregnancy.
Retinoids, he explained, are derivatives of vitamin A and are often marketed as anti-aging or acne treatment ingredients.
However, he cautioned that they can interfere with fetal development, particularly affecting the formation of vital organs.
“Retinoid is what we know as a vitamin A derivative. It can affect the organs of the baby while it’s still developing in your womb,” he explained.
He added that retinoids are not always clearly labeled, appearing under names such as Retin-A, Tretinoin, Isotretinoin, Adapalene, and Retinoformatase.
The health expert warned that pregnant women who unknowingly use products with such ingredients risk exposing their babies to congenital defects.
“If you don’t want your baby to be born with some kind of peg, avoid retinol during your pregnancy,” he stated bluntly.
Beyond retinoids, Aproko Doctor also advised against products containing hydroquinone, a common skin-lightening agent, and certain essential oils that could stimulate uterine contractions.
He emphasized that pregnant women should seek medical advice before using any skincare treatments, especially those advertised for stretch marks or pigmentation.
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His warnings are consistent with guidelines from leading health authorities.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association, for instance, advises expectant mothers to avoid skincare products containing retinoids, hydroquinone, formaldehyde, and phthalates, all of which have been linked to risks during pregnancy.
Instead, AAD recommends gentle, alcohol-free cleansers and mineral-based sunscreens as safer alternatives.
Similarly, Healthline’s medically reviewed guidance notes that prescription retinoids like isotretinoin carry a 20% to 35% risk of severe congenital abnormalities if used during pregnancy.
Though large-scale clinical trials on pregnant women are not ethical or available, existing case studies strongly support avoiding such products.
Dr. Shoshana Marmon, a dermatologist cited in the report, advises women to keep their skincare routine minimal and safe during pregnancy.
She recommends focusing on three essentials: cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting with sunscreens that rely on mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and sulfates, she adds, should also be avoided.
The growing popularity of skincare among Nigerian women, coupled with aggressive marketing of whitening creams and anti-aging solutions, makes this message particularly urgent.
He emphasized that pregnancy is a delicate time that requires vigilance, not just in diet and lifestyle but also in skincare.
Pregnant women, he urged, should always read labels carefully, seek professional guidance, and avoid shortcuts that may compromise the health of their unborn babies.
Ultimately, his message aligns with global health recommendations: when in doubt, choose safer alternatives and consult a doctor.
By making informed choices, pregnant women can protect themselves and their babies, ensuring a healthier start to life.
Punch
