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What eczema cream is safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Eczema Creams While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing eczema, a common skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. When it comes to treating eczema during this sensitive period, safety is paramount. Fortunately, there are several options available that are considered safe for use while breastfeeding.
Safe Topical Treatments
Emollients are highly recommended for breastfeeding mothers dealing with eczema. These moisturizers help to hydrate the skin and create a barrier against irritants. They are safe to use on all areas of the body, including the nipples, which can be particularly vulnerable to eczema. Regular application of emollients can not only alleviate symptoms but also help prevent flare-ups.
For more targeted relief, certain topical corticosteroids can be used, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate strength and frequency of use. Generally, low-potency corticosteroids are preferred for breastfeeding mothers, as they pose minimal risk to the infant.
Additionally, creams containing Crotamiton (Eurax®) and topical benzocaine (Lanacane®) can be applied to relieve itching. However, these should be used with caution and avoided on the nipple area to prevent any potential transfer to the baby.
Alternative Treatments
Beyond topical creams, phototherapy has emerged as a safe and effective treatment for eczema in breastfeeding mothers. This method involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light, which can reduce inflammation and itching. Studies suggest that phototherapy may even be more effective than topical creams for some women and can help increase milk production.
Considerations for Maternal Diet
Interestingly, some research indicates that a mother’s diet may influence her baby’s eczema. While the evidence is mixed, certain dietary changes could potentially help manage eczema symptoms in both mother and child. For instance, avoiding common allergens or irritants in the diet may be beneficial, although this should be approached with guidance from a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely manage eczema with a variety of treatments. Emollients are the go-to option for daily care, while specific topical treatments and phototherapy offer additional relief. As always, it’s crucial for mothers to consult with healthcare providers to tailor a treatment plan that ensures both their health and the safety of their breastfeeding infant.

How did I cured my baby’s eczema naturally?

Natural Remedies for Baby Eczema

  1. Moisturising Regularly. Moisturising is crucial in managing baby eczema.
  2. Oatmeal Baths. An oatmeal bath can provide significant relief for itchy and inflamed skin.
  3. Natural Aloe Vera Gel.
  4. Chamomile Tea Compresses.
  5. Probiotics.
  6. Using Natural Fabrics.

What is the best ointment for breast eczema?

Usually start with the lower strength steroids but stronger strength may be necessary. Hydrocortisone can be bought over the counter but stronger steroid will need a prescription. The steroids should be applied as small amount, in a thin layer, at night after the moisturiser has been put on, to the area of concern.

What skin products can I use while breastfeeding?

Moisturizing your skin is essential during pregnancy and breastfeeding to prevent dryness and itchiness. Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers that won’t clog your pores. Some options to consider include Vanicream Moisturizing Cream, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream.

What formula is good for breastfed babies with eczema?

Babies with significant eczema may be placed on a hypoallergenic formula like Nutramigen, Alimentum, Gerber HA or Neocate, and probiotics to support healthy gut flora (like Garden of Life Baby, Jarrow BabyDophilus, mommy’s bliss, Gerber Soothe or Culturelle Grow and Thrive).

What cream can I use for eczema while breastfeeding?

Steroid creams can be applied to areas of eczema on other parts of the body during breastfeeding. Low potency steroids such as hydrocortisone are preferred on the nipple to avoid thinning of the skin.

What is the best eczema cream for pregnancy?

Eucerin Skin Calming Cream
Eucerin is most often recommended by dermatologists, including Dr. Han, for soothing itchy skin during pregnancy.

How do you treat eczema in babies with breast milk?

Simply absorb some breastmilk using a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area. Breastmilk can sometimes clear up your baby’s eczema entirely, but it depends upon the severity.

What is nursing care for eczema?

Discuss the everyday treatments – avoidance of environmental triggers – overheating, rough prickly materials, and ensure regular and ongoing use of moisturisers and eczema baths. Give guidance that daily baths help to clean and remove the bacterial load from the skin, add moisture and decrease inflammation and itch.

Can topical steroids affect milk supply?

No adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants with maternal use of any corticosteroid during breastfeeding. Steroids are also commonly used for pediatric treatment with no side effects when used sparingly and for short periods of time. High doses steroids can cause a transient decrease in milk production.

Can breastfeeding moms use hydrocortisone cream?

Hi, thanks for your post. Yes, it should be safe to use OTC hydrocotrisone on a small area while breastfeeding. Very little topical hydrocortisone passes into the bloodstream and even less into the milk. Be careful to wash your hands before breastfeeding so that you don’t get any residual cream on the baby.

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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