Welcoming a new baby comes with a lot of changes, and your skin is often one of them. Hormonal shifts can cause everything from breakouts to super dry skin to hyperpigmentation. If you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to know what skincare products are safe. You don’t have to give up your skincare routine entirely. With a few adjustments, you can still take care of your skin while making sure the ingredients are safe for your baby.
Skincare Ingredients to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Here are some skincare ingredients to avoid if you’re breastfeeding.
Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives)
Retinoids are Vitamin A derivatives, and are common in anti-aging and acne products. High doses of Vitamin A can cause birth defects, so it’s best to avoid all forms of retinoids including retinol, retinyl palmitate, and tretinoin, until you stop breastfeeding.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) commonly found in acne products and exfoliating toners. High-concentrations of salicylic acid act similarly to aspirin in the body, and since aspirin is not recommended for infants, you should avoid salicylic acid if you’re breastfeeding.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is commonly found in products that target hyperpigmentation, and because the skin quickly absorbs it, any skincare products with this ingredient should be avoided if you’re breastfeeding.
Skincare Products Safe for Breastfeeding
Here’s a list of effective, breastfeeding-safe skincare ingredients to help keep your skin healthy, balanced, and glowing.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a powerful humectant that naturally occurs in the body to help attract and retain moisture in the skin. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water to plump the skin and soften the appearance of fine lines. HA is gentle, non-irritating, and safe for nursing mothers. Shop recommended skincare products with hyaluronic acid:
- Biologique Recherche Silk Plus
- Valmont Hydra3 Booster
- Valmont Hydra3 Regentic Cream
- BIOEFFECT Hydrating Cream
- Vintner's Daughter Active Treatment Essence™
Niacinamide
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps reduce inflammation, regulate oil production, and minimize hyperpigmentation. If you’re dealing with postpartum acne, products containing niacinamide are safe to use and can also help strengthen the skin barrier. Shop recommended skincare products with niacinamide:
- Auteur Definitive Renewal Serum
- Auteur Definitive Enzyme Cleanser
- Biologique Recherche Creme Splendide
- Valmont Lumimask
- Environ CQuence Vita-Peptide Toner
- Environ Botanical Infused Sebu-Spot Blemish Gel
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a safe skincare ingredient if you’re breastfeeding, and helps brighten a dull complexion while protecting skin from free radicals. Shop recommended skincare products with Vitamin C:
Postpartum Skincare: Why Taking Care of Your Skin is Still Important
Pregnancy and postpartum changes can make your skin feel sensitive, dry, or uneven. However, using the right products can help restore your skin’s health and balance. Reserve a personalized consultation at Sarah Akram Skincare to learn which skincare products are safe for breastfeeding and suited to your skin type. We’re located in Old Town Alexandria and also serve clients in D.C. Contact us at (703) 531-9350 or fill out our online form to reserve your appointment today.
FAQs
What does breastfeeding safe skincare mean?
Breastfeeding safe skincare refers to products formulated without ingredients that could harm a nursing baby. These products are gentle, non-toxic, and free from certain retinoids, high-strength acids, and other potentially harmful chemicals.
How do I know which products are safest for my skin type while breastfeeding?
A personalized consultation with a skincare professional at Sarah Akram Skincare will help you find products that are safe for breastfeeding and also work with your skin type.
Can I continue using sunscreen while breastfeeding?
Mineral-based sunscreens are safe for nursing and offering effective UV protection without harsh chemicals.
