What sunscreen is best for a breastfeeding mom?

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Breastfeeding Moms
As the sun shines brightly, the importance of sun protection becomes paramount, especially for breastfeeding mothers who are often vigilant about what they apply to their skin. With concerns about the safety of various products, selecting the right sunscreen can be a daunting task. Here’s a comprehensive look at what makes a sunscreen suitable for breastfeeding moms.
Why Sunscreen is Essential
Breastfeeding mothers, like anyone else, are at risk of skin damage from harmful UV rays. Regular use of sunscreen is clinically proven to significantly reduce the risk of skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Therefore, protecting the skin is not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s a crucial health measure.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, experts recommend opting for mineral sunscreens over chemical ones. Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which act as physical barriers against UV rays. These ingredients are generally considered safer for breastfeeding mothers because they are less likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream and subsequently into breast milk.
In contrast, chemical sunscreens often contain compounds that can penetrate the skin and may pose risks during breastfeeding. Many breastfeeding moms are understandably cautious about what they apply to their skin, as everything can potentially affect their breast milk.
Recommended Products
Among the mineral sunscreens, products like Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen have garnered positive feedback from dermatologists. This sunscreen is praised for being free from harsh chemicals and is noted for its smooth application, making it a favorite among nursing mothers. Another popular choice is Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen, which not only provides effective sun protection but also features a cap that changes color in response to UV exposure, serving as a helpful reminder to reapply.
Safety Considerations
While the focus is on sun protection, breastfeeding mothers should also be aware of other ingredients in their skincare products. It’s advisable to avoid sunscreens with fragrances, parabens, and other potentially harmful additives. Always check labels and opt for products that are labeled as safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers should prioritize mineral sunscreens that are free from harsh chemicals to ensure both effective sun protection and safety for their little ones. By making informed choices, moms can enjoy the outdoors while keeping their skin healthy and their babies safe.

What is the safest sunscreen you can use?

Mineral sunscreens (i.e., physical sunscreens) are safer than chemical sunscreens for your health and the planet. They contain the minerals titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, which physically sit on the skin’s surface (rather than penetrating the skin) and reflect or refract UV radiation from the skin.

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.

What sunscreen is safe while breastfeeding?

5 Best Sunscreens For Breastfeeding & Expecting Moms

• Sheer Zinc Continuous Spray Sunscreen.
• SPF 50 Tinted Face Mineral Sunscreen Stick.
• Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion.
• Super Shield Sport Stick Sunscreen.
• Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF50.

Can you suntan while breastfeeding?

Sun tanning outdoors is completely compatible with breastfeeding and will not alter your milk in any way. If you are sun tanning outside, keep your baby out of the sun because an infant’s skin is much more vulnerable to burning than adult skin.

Is it OK to use regular sunscreen on babies?

The Food and Drug Administration and the American Academy of Dermatology recommend not using sunscreen on infants under 6 months old. “That’s mostly because there are no studies on the safety and efficacy in infants that young,” Torres-Zegarra says.

What sunscreen is not pregnancy safe?

Any other ingredients are considered chemical sunscreens and must be avoided during pregnancy. Chemical sunscreens include oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, octinoxate.

What skin care products are safe while breastfeeding?

Look for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t irritate your skin. Some options to consider include Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser, and La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser.

What is the safest and best sunscreen for babies?

Best non-toxic sunscreens for babies and kids

• Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen lotion, SPF 50
• Earth Mama Organics Baby Mineral Sunscreen lotion, SPF 40
• Earth Mama Organics Baby Face Stick sunscreen, SPF 40
• Babybum Sunscreen lotion, SPF 50
• Babybum broad-spectrum sunscreen stick, SPF 50

Does UV light affect breast milk?

UV-C irradiation at 5 cm successfully inactivates cytomegalovirus in breast milk.