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Is laser skin treatment safe while breastfeeding?

Is Laser Skin Treatment Safe While Breastfeeding?
As new mothers navigate the challenges of postpartum life, many seek ways to regain their confidence, including exploring cosmetic procedures like laser skin treatments. However, the safety of such treatments during breastfeeding is a common concern.
Understanding the Risks and Recommendations
The consensus among experts is that while laser skin treatments are not outright categorized as unsafe for breastfeeding mothers, caution is advised. One significant factor to consider is the use of numbing agents during these procedures. These medications can enter the bloodstream and subsequently be found in breast milk, leading many professionals to recommend postponing laser treatments until after breastfeeding has concluded.
Moreover, hormonal fluctuations during the breastfeeding period can affect how a mother’s skin responds to treatments. This variability may lead to unpredictable results, prompting some practitioners to suggest waiting until nursing has stopped before undergoing laser procedures.
Specific Areas of Concern
When it comes to specific areas of treatment, some experts advise against performing laser procedures on the breast or areola regions while breastfeeding. This caution stems from the potential for the treatment to affect milk production or transfer substances through breast milk. However, treatments on other body parts, such as the legs or arms, are generally considered safer, as the laser’s penetration is limited to just a few millimeters.
Expert Opinions and Guidelines
Dr. Sarah Boxley, a specialist in cosmetic procedures, notes that many popular treatments, including lasers, are deemed acceptable during lactation. However, she emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider to assess individual circumstances and potential risks. Additionally, the Drugs and Lactation Database indicates that laser therapy is generally acceptable during breastfeeding, although specific precautions may apply depending on the treatment.
Conclusion
In summary, while laser skin treatments are not explicitly unsafe for breastfeeding mothers, it is prudent to approach them with caution. The presence of numbing agents in breast milk, hormonal changes affecting skin response, and the specific areas being treated all play crucial roles in determining the safety of these procedures. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to make an informed decision that prioritizes both the mother’s and the baby’s health.

Who should not get laser resurfacing?

You may not be a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing if you have: Active acne. Very dark skin. Deep wrinkles.

Why can’t you get a hydrafacial while breastfeeding?

Hydrafacial involves the use of low concentration of certain acids which are considered safe both during pregnancy and lactation. However, since a new mother’s skin is relatively more sensitive and may have varying needs, your skin expert can determine the best technique and products depending on your skin’s needs.

Can I take skin treatment while breastfeeding?

Topical therapies: benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and topical retinoids (tretinoin, isotretinoin, adapalene) are probably low risk when breastfeeding however direct contact with the infant’s skin should be avoided. Oral isotretinoin: contraindicated when breastfeeding.

Is laser skin resurfacing safe during pregnancy?

Still, due to a lack of satisfactory safety data, cosmetic lasers should be avoided until after the delivery. Treatment of striae during pregnancy lack evidence-based trials. PDL has shown some promising results, but it is recommended to wait until postpartum period to start any treatment.

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.

How long after birth can you do laser?

It’s generally recommended you wait at least six months after giving birth before undergoing laser hair removal treatment. This waiting period allows your body to recover from the physical changes of pregnancy and childbirth, including hormonal fluctuations that can affect hair growth.

Can you get laser skin treatment while breastfeeding?

Patients who are lactating
(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.

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.

What skin care is not allowed for breastfeeding mom?

Skin care ingredients to avoid while breastfeeding:
Retinoids. BHA or Beta Hydroxy acid. Salicylic acid (or choose products that contain no more than 2%)

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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