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Can I use salicylic acid on my face while breastfeeding?

Can I Use Salicylic Acid on My Face While Breastfeeding?
As new mothers navigate the complexities of skincare during breastfeeding, one common question arises: Is it safe to use salicylic acid on the face? The answer, based on current research and expert opinions, leans towards a cautious yes, but with important considerations.
Understanding Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) widely used in skincare for its ability to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and treat acne. Its effectiveness has made it a staple in many beauty regimens, but its safety during breastfeeding is a concern for many mothers.
Safety Profile During Breastfeeding
According to the Lactation Database, there is no substantial evidence indicating that salicylic acid poses a risk when applied topically during breastfeeding. The consensus among experts is that salicylic acid is unlikely to be significantly absorbed into the bloodstream or transferred into breast milk. This suggests that using salicylic acid products, such as cleansers or spot treatments, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Moreover, the amount of salicylic acid that penetrates the skin is minimal, further supporting its safety profile. Studies indicate that even when used in higher concentrations, the systemic absorption remains negligible. This means that mothers can continue to use their favorite acne-fighting products without undue concern for their nursing infants.
Precautions to Consider
While the use of salicylic acid is largely deemed safe, there are some precautions to keep in mind. It is advisable to avoid applying salicylic acid to areas that may come into direct contact with the baby, such as the chest or near the nipples. This is to prevent any potential ingestion or skin contact that could lead to irritation.
Additionally, some experts recommend caution with leave-on products, such as masks or peels, which may have a higher concentration of salicylic acid. These products are more likely to remain on the skin for extended periods, increasing the risk of absorption. Therefore, if you choose to use such products, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they align with your personal health circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, using salicylic acid on your face while breastfeeding is generally considered safe, provided that you take necessary precautions. As always, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new skincare products into your routine. This ensures that both you and your baby remain healthy and safe while you continue to care for your skin.

Can I use salicylic acid while breastfeeding?

Because it is unlikely to be appreciably absorbed or appear in breastmilk, it is considered safe to use during breastfeeding. [1] Avoid application to areas of the body that might come in direct contact with the infant’s skin or where the drug might be ingested by the infant via licking.

Can a breastfeeding mom use salicylic acid?

Salicylic Acid Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
No information is available on the clinical use of salicylic acid on the skin during breastfeeding. Because it is unlikely to be appreciably absorbed or appear in breastmilk, it is considered safe to use during breastfeeding.

What is the best face serum for breastfeeding?

Orimii’s clarifying serum is specially formulated without salicylic acid to fade hormonal acne and clear up your skin during pregnancy or nursing.

What can I use for acne while breastfeeding?

Proactiv is considered compatible with breastfeeding and is a more preferable acne treatment for nursing moms than oral antibiotics. The active ingredient in the Proactiv products is benzoyl peroxide (see the above paragraph).

When should you not use salicylic acid on your face?

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: diabetes, poor circulation, skin problems (such as infection, wounds, atopic dermatitis). During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed.

Is salicylic acid ok while breastfeeding?

Because it is unlikely to be appreciably absorbed or appear in breastmilk, it is considered safe to use during breastfeeding. [1] Avoid application to areas of the body that might come in direct contact with the infant’s skin or where the drug might be ingested by the infant via licking.

Who cannot use salicylic acid?

Also, do not use this medicine if you are a diabetic or if you have poor blood circulation. Do not use this medicine on warts with hair growing from them or on warts on the face, in or on the genital (sex) organs, or inside the nose or mouth. Also do not use on moles or birthmarks. To do so may cause severe irritation.

What not to use while breastfeeding?

Some prescription drugs, like medicine to help you sleep, some painkillers and drugs used to treat cancer or migraine headaches, aren’t safe to take while breastfeeding. Others, like certain kinds of birth control, may affect the amount of breast milk you make.

What face acids are safe while breastfeeding?

Glycolic acid is another skincare ingredient with an excellent safety profile for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Glycolic acid reduces skin breakouts by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells.

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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