Are you a new parent concerned about the effects of some skincare ingredients while breastfeeding? Our comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the confusing world of parent and baby skincare.
As a parent, you want nothing but the best for your little one, but deciphering what is safe for your baby can be overwhelming. With numerous skincare products on the market, it’s essential to know which ingredients to avoid and why.
In this article, we will shed light on some skincare ingredients that you may wish to avoid whilst breastfeeding and provide you with a handy checklist of safe skincare ingredients that you can confidently use without compromising your baby’s well-being.
Understanding the Importance of Skincare Ingredient Safety
When it comes to your baby’s skincare, understanding the ingredients in your skincare products is crucial for providing the best care for your little one.
Skincare products can contain a wide range of ingredients, some of which may have harmful effects on your baby’s health. The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it absorbs what we apply to it. So we recommend keeping the products that you use on your skin while breastfeeding simple.
Skincare Ingredients to Avoid While Breastfeeding
When it comes to skincare ingredients to avoid while breastfeeding (and beyond!), there are several that you should be aware of. These ingredients have been linked to various health concerns so you may want to avoid them.
1. Parabens: These commonly used preservatives can disrupt hormonal balance and have been found in breast milk. Avoid products containing methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.
2. Phthalates: Found in many fragrances and plastics, phthalates have been linked to developmental and reproductive issues. Look out for ingredients such as diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP).
3. Synthetic fragrances: Artificial fragrances often contain numerous undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates. Opt for fragrance-free products or those scented with natural essential oils.
4. Oxybenzone: A chemical sunscreen ingredient, oxybenzone can be absorbed through the skin and has been detected in breast milk. Choose mineral-based sunscreens instead.
5. Retinol: As a precaution, most skincare experts don’t advise using retinol whilst you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. If you can’t live without your retinol, you may want to investigate some natural alternatives to retinol like PromaCare®BKL(bakuchiol) which may offer the same results without skin and sun sensitivity.
By avoiding products that contain these harmful ingredients, you can minimise the potential risks to your baby’s health while breastfeeding.
Post time: May-07-2024