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Can I rub breastmilk on my face?

The Surprising Benefits of Rubbing Breast Milk on Your Face
In recent years, the use of breast milk as a skincare remedy has gained traction, with many parents and beauty enthusiasts alike exploring its potential benefits. While traditionally known for its nutritional value for infants, breast milk is also celebrated for its therapeutic properties, leading to the question: Can I rub breast milk on my face?
A Natural Remedy with Historical Roots
Breast milk has been utilized in various cultures for its healing properties long before modern skincare products became prevalent. It is rich in nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors, which can contribute to skin health. According to a review on the therapeutic uses of human breast milk, it has been employed in traditional medicine for various ailments, showcasing its versatility beyond infant nutrition.
Skin Benefits of Breast Milk
1. Moisturizing Properties: Breast milk contains fats and proteins that can help hydrate the skin. Many users report that applying breast milk leaves their skin feeling soft and supple, akin to the effects of high-quality moisturizers.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The presence of immunoglobulins and other bioactive compounds in breast milk may help reduce inflammation, making it potentially beneficial for conditions like acne or eczema. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that breast milk can effectively treat baby acne, indicating its soothing properties.
3. Antibacterial Qualities: Breast milk is known to have antibacterial properties, which can help combat acne-causing bacteria. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to maintain clearer skin.
4. Gentle Exfoliation: The natural enzymes in breast milk can provide a mild exfoliating effect, helping to remove dead skin cells without the harshness of chemical exfoliants.
How to Use Breast Milk on Your Face
For those interested in trying this unconventional skincare method, there are several ways to incorporate breast milk into your routine. Some suggest using it as a face wash, while others recommend creating DIY facial masks. A simple method involves applying fresh breast milk directly to the skin, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing off.
Considerations and Precautions
While the benefits of breast milk for skin care are promising, it is essential to approach this practice with caution. Individuals with allergies to dairy should avoid using breast milk on their skin, as it could trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, ensuring that the breast milk is fresh and properly stored is crucial to avoid any risk of contamination.
Conclusion
In summary, rubbing breast milk on your face is not only a viable option but also a practice rooted in historical use and supported by anecdotal evidence. With its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, breast milk can serve as a natural remedy for various skin concerns. However, as with any skincare treatment, it is advisable to conduct a patch test and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns. Embracing this “liquid gold” could lead to a softer, healthier complexion, making it a unique addition to your skincare regimen.

What does putting breast milk on your face do?

Antibacterial Properties of Breast Milk
Similarly, immunoglobulins in breast milk actively protect against infections. These components suggest that breast milk could potentially help in managing bacterial skin conditions like acne.

How to use breastmilk on skin?

Soaking cotton wool in breast milk and applying it to the rash can help soothe itching and burning, and encourage the skin to heal faster. Breast milk’s antibacterial properties also potentially reduce the risk of infection.

What can expired breast milk be used for?

Breast Milk Bath: Use unspoiled expired milk for a soothing and moisturizing bath, ideal for sensitive skin. – Soap or Lotion: Make homemade soap or lotion for natural skincare, with breast milk’s nourishing properties. – Breast Milk Jewelry: Transform a sentimental amount of milk into a keepsake, like jewelry.

How to make lotion with breastmilk?

One and a half tablespoons of cosmetic grade beeswax pellets and like four to five drops of vitamin E oil. You’re going to boil the oils and the pellets together and then at the last minute you’re going to pour in your breastmilk and whisk it until it thickens. Pour it into a glass jar.

Is there any side effects of applying milk on face?

Using milk on your face might have side effects. At least 65 percent of the world’s population has a sensitivity to dairy milk. Consuming milk may cause digestive issues and skin side effects, and using it on your face may result in hives, itching, inflammation, and redness. Some people may also be allergic to milk.

Does breast milk clear up acne?

Many families feel that breast milk on the skin helps the baby, but it hasn’t been proven to help get rid of baby acne. It’s generally safe to apply breast milk to a baby’s skin, but if this irritates your baby’s skin, it is best to stop and talk with your baby’s healthcare provider.

Can breast milk clog pores?

Milk drainage
Not fully draining your breasts during feedings can also lead to blocked nipple pores. If you often switch your baby to the second breast before they’ve finished feeding from the first one, you may develop a plug. Skipped feedings and poor latching on by the baby can also cause this problem.

What does breast milk do to the eyes?

Medical Research Concerning Breast Milk
However, breast milk is not effective against all bacterial eye infections. In addition, it typically does not eradicate the infection, but only seems to suppress it. If your infant’s eye infection goes untreated, they could develop long-term eye damage.

Is it safe to put breastmilk in baby’s face?

However, breast milk does have antimicrobial properties. This means it may reduce or destroy some microbes, like bacteria. So if bacteria on your baby’s skin triggers acne, cleansing their skin with breast milk may help kill the bacteria and other impurities that block pores.

What can breast milk be used for in adults?

You can also use breast milk like an antibiotic ointment on superficial scrapes—although you should never apply it to open wounds or deep cuts. Breast milk can also reduce itchiness from bug bites or poison ivy. Some people even gargle with breast milk to help manage sore throat pain!

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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