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The information provided is taken from various reference sources. It is provided as a guideline. No responsibility can be taken by the author or the Breastfeeding Network for the way in which the information is used. Clinical decisions remain the responsibility of medical and breastfeeding practitioners. The data presented here is intended to provide some immediate information but cannot replace input from

Breastfeeding mothers frequently ask if they can continue to have their favourite beauty treatments whilst breastfeeding without harming their babies. Because these products are not readily absorbed, levels reaching breastmilk would be insignificant if detectable at all. Whilst you are breastfeeding you can:

Have your hair coloured, permed, straightened or bleached
Have false nails applied and use nail varnish
Have a spray tan
Have dental work (see information sheet on dental treatment which can be downloaded from bfn.local . There is little research on having teeth whitened but it is unlikely to affect breastfeeding as it should not be swallowed
Have a pedicure or manicure
Have osteopathic or chiropractic treatment
Have a massage with simple massage oils
Have a leg or bikini line wax

If you have any concerns please contact the Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline.

Bibliography

British National Formulary
Hale T. W Medications in Mothers Milk
Jones W Breastfeeding and Medication 2018 Routledge
Lactmed website http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT

Beauty treatments for Breastfeeding Mothers

Bibliography

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