Choosing Safe Skincare for Breastfeeding Mothers: Essential Tips You Need to Know

When you enter the breastfeeding phase, your body will experience various changes. Besides needing more energy, many mothers also notice changes in their skin. This makes the topic of skincare for breastfeeding mothers an interesting discussion that deserves deeper understanding.

Choosing skincare for breastfeeding mothers is important because some ingredients in skincare products can be transferred into breast milk. Clearly, this is something you want to avoid since these ingredients may pose health risks to your baby.

This is why it is important for you to understand the tips for choosing skincare that is safe yet still able to provide the best care for your skin to maintain its moisture and health.

Understand First the Ingredients to Avoid While Breastfeeding

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As mentioned earlier, several ingredients are considered potentially harmful and may be transferred into breast milk. Based on Hegen’s research, at least six ingredients pose similar risks. A brief explanation of each can be found below.

Retinoids or Vitamin A

Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A commonly found in skincare products for preventing aging. However, when transferred through breast milk, they may interfere with a baby’s development, cause irritation if they come into direct contact with the skin, and even lead to birth defects if used during pregnancy.

Safer alternatives include bakuchiol, natural vitamin C, azelaic acid, and similar ingredients. You may consult your doctor for recommendations.

High-Dose Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid in skincare products is beneficial for treating acne, dandruff, aging signs, and more. It is widely found in soaps, face cleansers, lotions, and creams.

For mothers, high-dose salicylic acid may cause redness, burning sensations, peeling, irritation, and rashes. If absorbed into breast milk, it may also have negative effects on the baby.

Lactic acid is a safer alternative for breastfeeding mothers.

Hydroquinone

This ingredient is widely known as a skin lightening agent used in some cosmetic and skincare products. Although its circulation is heavily restricted, some products may still contain it.

Hydroquinone has long been prohibited for pregnant women due to its negative effects on the fetus. The same applies to breastfeeding mothers because it may pass into breast milk and enter the baby’s digestive system. Although there are no definitive studies confirming that topical hydroquinone transfers to breast milk, it is strongly advised to avoid products containing this ingredient.

Safer alternatives include products containing zinc and alpha arbutin.

Parabens and Phthalates

These ingredients are commonly found in cosmetics, skincare products, and household cleaners or food preservatives. When they reach your baby’s body, they may increase the risk of obesity, gestational diabetes, infertility, and eczema flare-ups.

Their benefits include helping reduce stretch marks and fine lines after childbirth.

A safer alternative is aloe vera, which is more natural and gentle for your baby.

Artificial Fragrance and Alcohol

Many skincare products on the market contain artificial fragrance and alcohol. Although these ingredients are used to create a pleasant scent, they are not recommended in products used by breastfeeding mothers.

Their effects may include allergies and irritation. They can trigger health issues for both mother and baby, especially if absorbed into the baby’s body.

Safer alternatives include products with natural fragrance, which may not smell as strong but are safer. For hydration, you can also use products with natural moisturizing properties such as aloe vera.

Safe Ingredients for Skincare for Breastfeeding Mothers

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After understanding the ingredients that are not recommended, now you can explore the ingredients that are considered safe. It is always best to consult your doctor so the recommendations match your skin condition during breastfeeding.

Hyaluronic Acid

This ingredient is commonly found in cosmetics and is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Hyaluronic acid helps hydrate the skin to prevent dryness.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also frequently used in cosmetics for its benefits in maintaining skin health. Its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from free radicals and brighten the complexion.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide helps repair damaged skin texture and reduce inflammation that may occur while breastfeeding.

Ceramide

Ceramide is widely used in skincare for strengthening the skin barrier. It also helps maintain moisture so the skin does not easily become dry, cracked, or irritated.

Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide

These two ingredients are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. Their main benefit is physical sun protection to shield the skin from harmful UV exposure.

Other Natural Ingredients

Beyond the ingredients mentioned above, many natural ingredients are safe and nourishing for the skin. These include aloe vera, coconut oil, and jojoba oil, all of which help maintain skin health. Since they are natural, they are generally safe during breastfeeding.

5 Simple Tips for Choosing Skincare for Breastfeeding Mothers

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There are five simple ways you can choose safe skincare for breastfeeding mothers. These methods help you find products that match your needs and are safe for both you and your baby.

1. First, carefully read the ingredient label on your skincare products. Check the ingredients and avoid those listed in the earlier section.
2. Second, choose products specifically formulated for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. These products are the safest option since they undergo strict ingredient selection and testing.
3. Third, perform a patch test before applying the product to your entire face or body to check for any reaction.
4. Fourth, start with basic skincare products such as facial cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen to ensure what you use is safe and does not cause unwanted side effects.
5. Fifth, do not hesitate to consult your doctor to get the right recommendations so you can use products that are truly safe for both you and your baby during the breastfeeding phase.

Basic and Effective Skincare Routine for Breastfeeding Mothers

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After learning the information explained above, you now have better insight regarding skincare that is safe during the breastfeeding phase. To help you get the ideal treatment, this section provides helpful information about recommended routines that can make you feel more comfortable when doing your regular skincare for breastfeeding mothers.

• Clean your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser
• Always use a moisturizer that hydrates and does not clog your pores
• Protect your skin from Sun exposure by using sunscreen with broad spectrum protection (for example SPF 30 or higher)
• Gently exfoliate your skin about 1 to 2 times a week to remove dead skin cells
• Always use natural face masks or products that are safe during breastfeeding, and ask your doctor for recommendations that suit your skin condition

Choosing skincare that is safe for breastfeeding mothers is actually essential so the breastfeeding phase you share with your little one is not disrupted and your baby does not get exposed to harmful substances that may affect development. Doctor recommended products are the best choice because they will be adjusted to your skin condition. In line with the best product recommendations for you and your little one during the breastfeeding phase, Hegen also provides optimal support for this journey. Ensure your baby always gets enough breast milk with the breast pump from Hegen and their high quality baby bottles . Practical, offering a perfect ecosystem across all products that complement one another, and supported by strong research and development, Hegen becomes the perfect partner to accompany every stage of your little one’s growth.

References:

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• KlikDokter. Tips Memilih Skincare yang Aman untuk Ibu Menyusui. https://www.klikdokter.com/ibu-anak/ibu-menyusui/tips-memilih-skincare-yang-aman-untuk-ibu-menyusui.
• RRI. Kenali Perbedaan Retinol dan Retinoid untuk Kulit Awet Muda. https://www.rri.co.id/kesehatan/803367/kenali-perbedaan-retinol-dan-retinoid-untuk-kulit-awet-muda#:~:text=Retinol%20sebenarnya%20adalah%20jenis%20retinoid,bentuk%20lebih%20lemah%20dari%20retinoid..
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