Can you do IPL treatment while breastfeeding?

Understanding IPL Treatment While Breastfeeding
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment has gained popularity for various cosmetic procedures, including hair removal and skin rejuvenation. However, many new mothers wonder whether it is safe to undergo such treatments while breastfeeding. The consensus among medical professionals and manufacturers is generally cautious.
Safety Concerns
Most experts advise against using IPL devices during breastfeeding. The primary reason is the lack of comprehensive studies on the effects of IPL on lactating women. As one source notes, no clinical trials have been conducted on pregnant or breastfeeding women, making it ethically and legally questionable to perform these treatments during this time. This caution extends to at-home devices, such as the Philips Lumea, which explicitly states in its manual that it is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.
Hormonal Changes and Skin Sensitivity
Breastfeeding can lead to hormonal fluctuations that may affect skin sensitivity. Many women experience increased sensitivity during this period, which could heighten the risk of adverse reactions to IPL treatments. Some practitioners suggest that even if there is no direct evidence linking IPL to negative outcomes during breastfeeding, the potential for skin irritation and other complications warrants a delay in treatment.
Recommendations for Timing
Experts typically recommend waiting two to three months after stopping breastfeeding before resuming IPL treatments. This waiting period allows the body to stabilize hormonally and reduces the risk of complications. Additionally, some practitioners suggest avoiding treatment on areas like the breasts and areolas during breastfeeding, even if other body parts are treated.
Conclusion
In summary, while there is no definitive evidence that IPL treatments are harmful during breastfeeding, the prevailing advice is to err on the side of caution. Most healthcare providers recommend postponing any IPL procedures until after breastfeeding has concluded. This approach not only prioritizes the safety of the mother but also ensures that any potential skin sensitivities are addressed before undergoing cosmetic treatments.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Can you do microneedling when breastfeeding?

Microneedling is considered theoretically safe while breast-feeding so long as the client (the mom) is in good health. However, every treatment will require a 1:1 consult with one of our Nurse Practitioners for approval at Elite Medical & Aesthetics.

Can you do an IPL laser while breastfeeding?

IPL should also be avoided by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the lidocaine in the optional numbing cream offered by some clinics could cross over into breast milk. It’s also not a good option for people on Accutane and other oral acne medications.

Can I use a nood while breastfeeding?

The adhesive used in NOOD No Show Silicone Nipple Covers is a crucial factor for breastfeeding mothers. The Wacker® German medical-grade adhesive is skin-safe, ensuring that it won’t cause any allergic reactions or irritation.

Is it safe to use IPL while pregnant?

It is best to avoid IPL during pregnancy. Never use IPL to remove hair from moles. Avoid waxing, tweezing, epilating, or threading to remove hair in between the IPL treatments. But you can shave to keep the growth in control.

When should you not do IPL?

A contraindication for IPL therapy is having a tan or sunburn. Although patients should always wear sunscreen, it is especially important for them to do so in between IPL treatments to avoid disrupting or delaying treatments.

Is it safe to do microneedling while breastfeeding?

Microneedling is considered theoretically safe while breast-feeding so long as the client (the mom) is in good health.

Is IPL safe on breasts?

That being said, you should avoid using your IPL on extra-sensitive areas such as the genitals, nipples, or anus, as this could cause inflammation.

Are laser treatments safe while breastfeeding?

(2013) summarized that most cosmetic procedures such as botulinum toxin A, chemical peeling, and lasers are safe to use during lactation since there is low concern for significant systemic absorption of any of the agents used in these procedures.