If a client becomes pregnant, what should they avoid using?

When a client becomes pregnant, it is essential to be cautious about the use of certain skincare ingredients and treatments that could potentially harm the developing fetus. The correct answer encompasses all listed treatments: salicylic acid, retinoids containing Vitamin A, and chemical peels.

Salicylic acid, while typically safe in small concentrations, is a beta hydroxy acid that is absorbed into the bloodstream, and high doses should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks. Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A, which is known to cause birth defects when used in high doses during pregnancy. Therefore, any products containing retinoids should be strictly avoided. Chemical peels might involve stronger acids that can be absorbed through the skin, and the risks associated with certain peels during pregnancy have not been fully established, leading many professionals to recommend avoiding them altogether.

Given these concerns, it is crucial for pregnant clients to steer clear of these treatments to prevent any potential risks to their health and the health of their unborn child.