Acne Creams

Always check with your doctor for any medications, EVEN topical. Topical medications are actually absorbed into your system very very well. (Think nicotine patch, birth control patch, etc.) The skin is a big organ, and it is a super efficient delivery system for medications. I always asked my pediatrician or the pharmacist for breastfeeding and medication questions.

Skid ID's products mostly contain peroxide as the active ingredient but some have salicylic acid. Both can be used while breastfeeding. I tried SkinID (by Neutrogena) and wish hadn't wasted my money - it's no different than the neutrogena products you get at the drugstore - just different packaging and they suggest products based on your answers. I got three products all containing peroxide and all it did was burn my skin (when used as directed) and after two months of use, I had more of a problem than before I started SkinId. I've had better luck with a neutrogena non-acne scrub and using the 2 in 1 microclear fade gel from neutrogena. Maybe SkinID will work better for you....good luck!

Hi B.,
i've struggled with acne since I was 15. It actually got worse heading into my 40s. Only until recently have I started finding ways to overcome it naturally.

The problem with most of the creams is that because of the drying effect, they cause your body to increase oil production, thus perpetuating the cycle. Plus, while you are breastfeeding, your body is absorbing any chemicals or ingredients that are in the medications, like it or not, and even with the doctor's approval.

The only treatment I now use are those 2% salycylic acid facial cleansing pads you can buy in the drugstore. I swipe one over my face in the morning and before I go to bed. I was having a horrible time with my linens getting bleached out by benzoyl peroxide in the meds I used to use. Plus, the salycylic acid is not as harsh (or doesn't seem to be). Ideally I will get to a point when I don't need to use any kind of medication, just natural cleansers.

Here are things that have all helped to decrease my acne considerably and they are all natural and chemical-free. Much of my acne was caused by not having sufficient internal cleansing. My acne is also hormonal, so at certain times of the month, I will still get a breakout, but it is MUCH less severe and goes away much more quickly:

1. Drink lots of water (I know you've heard this before, but it helps flush the junk out of your system).
2. Eat lots of fiber. I even take psyllium husk capsules as a supplement to ensure that my colon is cleansed. These don't cause diarrhea. They just give you regular, clean bowel movements and help eliminate more junk from your body.
3. Move your body. By taking a 30 minute walk or bike ride (or feel free to do much more if you desire) the toxins are released through your pores. When I stop exercising my acne always gets worse.
4. Stay away from overly processed, sugary foods. Limit your intake of refined flour and white sugar. Whole grains have more fiber and help your body run more efficiently.
5. I also take a supplement called glucomannan which helps regulate blood sugar and pulls out fats and toxins from my colon, along with making me feel fuller after meals. I take it 30 minutes before each meal. I lost 40 lbs. after taking this wonderful, but more obscure product. It can be ordered online if your local health store doesn't have it. Nature's Way carries it.
6. The advice someone gave you about natural masks made with various food products and ingredients that aren't harsh. Breastmilk would be great, as well as fresh watermelon slices (the acids in the fruit are wonderful for the skin).
7. Eat as many raw vegetables (and fruits) as you can. They are VERY purifying for your body and your skin will become clearer and more radiant.
8. Get enough sleep. This is difficult with a little one, but as you know, it is during sleep when your body heals itself. The more rest you get, the clearer your skin will be. If I go for more than a night of major sleep deprivation, my breakouts are worse. Sneak in naps if you can (I know, it's hard).
9. Take Vitamin C supplements, 1000 mg at a time. Vitamin C is a great healer and helps prevent colds, too. I hardly ever get sick and it is probably because of the Vitamin C. It is great for your immune system.

To sum it up, sweating, drinking water and pulling out toxins with fiber (vegetables and supplements) have been the safest and most effective ways for me. People who haven't seen me in a while can't believe how much clearer my skin is now. I hope some or all of the tips might work for you.

Usually anything topical is not going to get through your system to get into your breastmilk... I don't have my medications and mothers milk book in front of me, but, if I get a chance I will look it up.

As some natural alternative - you can use stuff like honey as a mask (which has antibacterial properties). A simple salt water mixture is good - or even better, a salt scrub (homemade).... if you can get to a beach - ocean water does wonders for acne!!!
And, you can even put breastmilk on your face - which also has antibacterial properties (as you should know).. and that is 100% compatable w/ breastfeeding! ;)

I have found all acne products to break my skin out worse except for clearisil vanishing cream & alcohol. I just take a cotton swab and wipe rubbing alcohol on my face each night, and put clearisil on any blemishes - especially if I'm wearing makeup that day!!! And, to avoid drying out your skin, I use Dove facial lotion (which also has SPF in it) over top.

You can check with any Lactation Consultant or your local La Leche League leader. They have up to date info on drugs and products which are safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding.