Benzoyl peroxide is an effective remedy for acne when applied to the skin. It may take some time before your hormones reach normal levels after childbirth, resulting in acne breakouts. You may be hesitant about using benzoyl peroxide while breastfeeding, fearing any potential harm to your baby. Continue reading this post as we provide information about benzoyl peroxide, how safe it is when breastfeeding, and its possible effects on you and your baby.
Is It Safe To Use Benzoyl Peroxide While Breastfeeding?
Benzoyl Peroxide is very effective for reducing the severity of acne lesions. The skin takes its time to get used to the product, and hence minor breakouts are possible. If you have sensitive skin, please avoid using this product on the face. Benzoyl Peroxide is considered to be one of the most organic peroxides in terms of its production and application.
Uses
Benzoyl Peroxide is used mainly to treat moderate to mild acne, and can be sometimes used in combination with other acne treatments as well. It is said to reduce the number of acne-causing bacteria, by mostly causing the skin to dry and then peel. It is advisable to check the product contents before using it, as taking the wrong product might harm the skin and the infant.
How Can You Use Benzoyl Peroxide While Breastfeeding?
The package contains a cleansing liquid or a bar, lotion, cream, or gel. It is advisable to use it once or twice a day, starting with once a day to see the effect of the same on the skin. Follow the directions mentioned on the package and consult the doctor if there is any ingredient you do not know. Do not ever overuse the product, and neither should you use it more than what is prescribed by the doctor. As any other product, use this product on the palm for three days and see if it causes any discomfort. First the liquid is used to wash the affected area. After you gently wash the affected area, pat dry with a towel and then apply the lotion, cream or the gel. It is then that you apply Benzoyl Peroxide and rub it gently. The doctor might advise you to avoid any product that might irritate the skin while you are using benzoyl peroxide. If you miss the application, either apply it as soon as you remember. Ensure you don’t apply a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Side Effects
Though not severe, Benzoyl Peroxide while nursing might have some side effects like:
Peeling and dryness of skin
Feeling warm
A tingling or stinging sensation
Sometimes the side effects may be adverse. In that case, please consult the doctor and stop using benzoyl peroxide. These adverse side effects include:
Itching
Throat tightness
Difficulty in breathing
Feeling dizzy
Swelling in any part of the body
Drug Interactions
Certain medicines are not supposed to be used together. When you start this medicine, it is extremely important that the doctor knows about the medication. Consult your health care professional and discuss the need for the medicine. Also, after 2-3 weeks, if you notice anything strange with the infant (like stomach problems) stop the medication and talk to the doctor. Anything that is applied to the skin or taken orally does affect the infant. Studies have proved that this medicine is safe for the infant while you are breastfeeding.
