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What skincare products are not safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Skincare Safety While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a time of heightened awareness for new mothers, who often scrutinize everything they consume and apply to their bodies. While many are diligent about their diets, the skincare products they use can sometimes slip under the radar. It’s crucial to recognize that certain ingredients in skincare can potentially affect both the mother and the nursing infant.
Key Ingredients to Avoid
1. Retinoids and Retinol: These popular anti-aging ingredients, derived from Vitamin A, are known for their effectiveness in reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture. However, they are not recommended during breastfeeding. The concern lies in the potential for these compounds to be absorbed into the bloodstream and subsequently passed to the baby through breast milk.
2. Salicylic Acid: Commonly found in acne treatments, salicylic acid can be absorbed into the body in significant amounts. While low concentrations may be considered safe, higher concentrations, especially in peels or intensive treatments, should be avoided during breastfeeding.
3. Hydroquinone: This skin-lightening agent is effective for hyperpigmentation but is also advised against during breastfeeding due to its potential systemic absorption and effects on the infant.
4. Certain Essential Oils: While many essential oils are safe, some can be irritating or harmful to infants. Oils like sage, peppermint, and rosemary should be used with caution, as they can affect milk supply or cause adverse reactions in babies.
5. Petroleum-Based Ingredients: Products containing mineral oil, paraffin oil, or isopropyl alcohol can be problematic. These ingredients may not irritate adult skin but can lead to sensitivity in infants, making them best avoided.
General Precautions
Mothers should also be cautious with products that contain fragrances or dyes, as these can cause allergic reactions or irritations in sensitive baby skin. It’s advisable to opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products whenever possible.
Safe Alternatives
Fortunately, there are many skincare options that are considered safe during breastfeeding. Ingredients like Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and gentle moisturizers are generally well-tolerated and can help maintain skin health without posing risks to the baby.
Conclusion
Navigating skincare while breastfeeding requires a careful approach. By avoiding certain ingredients and opting for safer alternatives, mothers can protect both their skin and their baby’s health. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider or dermatologist can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual needs.

Is hyaluronic acid ok while breastfeeding?

This is because it has the unique ability to attract and retain 1,000 times its weight in water. Hyaluronic acid is not only a safe hydrator for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, but it also has several other perks.

Can a breastfeeding mom use niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a very safe and effective ingredient that can be used by people of all ages, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. In fact, niacinamide is often recommended by any board-certified dermatologist as a gentle and effective way to improve the appearance of the skin.

What products should you not use while breastfeeding?

Be careful with products containing parabens as they could be absorbed through the skin and potentially passed onto your little one through breast milk. Parabens are sneaky and can pretend to be estrogen in the body, which can throw off the hormone balance for both you and the baby.

Is CeraVe safe 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.

Can I use retinol while breastfeeding?

No, you should not use retinol while breastfeeding due to the potential risk of passing it to your child through breast milk, which could cause birth defects.

What is the best skin care for breastfeeding moms?

Products Recommended for Use While Breastfeeding

  • Products with 10% glycolic acid or less (Toning Pads + Toning Pads II)
  • Vitamin C serum (Liquid Gold)
  • Brightening Serum.
  • Overachiever.
  • Moisturizer (Hydrating Lotion)
  • SPF.

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.

Is vitamin C serum safe while breastfeeding?

Can you use a Vitamin C serum while breastfeeding? You sure can! Incorporate some Vitamin C into your skincare regime, such as Aspect Dr Active C serum. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that stabilises free-radicals (unstable molecules that inflame the skin), improving dryness, collagen damage, fine lines and wrinkles.

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.

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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