Is it safe to use acne washes when you are nursing?

Sara - posted on 04/14/2009

Here's what I found on baby center...



Salicylic acid

This mild acid is used to treat certain skin disorders, including acne, and you can find it in a number of skin products, such as cleansers and toners. It can penetrate facial oils to get deep into pores and clean out dead skin cells. Salicylic acid is in the aspirin family, so it can also help reduce inflammation or redness. BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is a form of salicylic acid and is used in some topical exfoliants to reverse signs of aging.



But salicylic acid is another no-no for pregnant women. High doses of the acid in its oral form have been shown in studies to cause birth defects and various pregnancy complications.



Again, doctors are being cautious by recommending that pregnant women avoid the topical use of salicylic acid. Small amounts applied to the skin — such as a salicylic acid-containing toner used once or twice a day — are considered safe, says Johnson.



But the concern is stronger about face and body peels containing salicylic acid. "This kind of 'soaking' in the ingredient is similar to taking one or more aspirin when pregnant," she explains.



"More product used equals more absorption into the bloodstream," adds Baumann. Always check with your doctor before having a peel treatment. Better yet, she advises, if you must have a peel, have it done professionally at your dermatologist's office. A dermatologist will know how to do it safely during pregnancy.



On the label:

Salicylic acid

Beta hydroxy acid

BHA



Note: Alpha hydroxy acids, sometimes listed as AHAs, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, are safe.



According to the Dr., you should follow the same guidlines until you are done nusing. Glad you brought this up, I hadn't thought about it.

Ashley - posted on 04/14/2009

Quoting Revel:

I would think so. I dont know why not. Ive never heeard that you couldnt when you are pregnant. Whys that? If your not sure call you OB.

Because of the sal. acid in it.

Amanda - posted on 04/13/2009

I asked my doctor when I was nursing. He told me that it is not known if it would affect the baby or not. He did not recomend it.

Jocelyn - posted on 04/13/2009

i would asume that it should be fine...i've never heard anyone say you can't.  and i mean you're not eating it (hopefully lol) so it shouldn't be getting to your milk supply.  i would just make sure that it didn't leave any residue on the nipple area, that's all i can think of :)

Revel - posted on 04/13/2009

I would think so. I dont know why not. Ive never heeard that you couldnt when you are pregnant. Whys that? If your not sure call you OB.

Shannon - posted on 04/13/2009

It is just your hormones...everyone reacts differently right after having a baby. Don't worry those pimples should clear up in a few months. I would be careful with the acne wash. Don't use anything with salicylic acid or any peroxide in it. Try "Kiss my face", "Alba" or other organic acne cleansers. Hope this helps