And after the baby arrives . . . well, that’s a whole other hormonal journey! Again, hormones shift dramatically after giving birth, and can also be impacted by lactating. If you aren’t breastfeeding, you can now start the acne product of your choice. For those breastfeeding, even topical medications should be scrutinized.
As the active ingredient in Clearogen Foaming Cleanser and Clarifying Toner, Salicylic Acid works wonders cleansing the pores and removing bacteria. According to the National Center for Biotechnology, “Because [Salicylic Acid] is unlikely to be appreciably absorbed or appear in breast milk, it is considered safe to use during breastfeeding.”
There is no data on the excretion of benzoyl peroxide into human milk. The general recommendation is that caution be used by nursing mothers when utilizing benzoyl peroxide. A discussion with your OB-GYN, lactation nurse or pediatrician about what that caution looks like is best. For example, your doctor may suggest applying as a spot treatment instead of applying liberally. It depends on what the patient and their doctor considers a reasonable amount that poses minimal risk.
Alternatively, Clearogen offers a sulfur-based acne lotion. Again, there is no formal data on sulfur and breastfeeding. But sulfur is generally accepted as a mild and more natural substance for acne treatment.
Please discuss with your doctor or lactation specialist and definitely do not apply to the breast area where the child may absorb or consume the lotion.
While the joys of motherhood may come with some very literal bumps, we wish you all the best. Good skin is possible, even for new mothers. As your hormones subside and your Clearogen products do their thing, you’ll start to get a different sort of glow.