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Breastfeeding is supposed to be a magical experience. One that strengthens the bond between a mother and child.
And it is! Breastfeeding has so many wonderful benefits.
But, like anything else, it also comes with a few disadvantages– Especially in the beginning when you’re still trying to get into the swing of things.
Do you suffer from dry or cracked skin from nursing your baby? Do you flinch when it’s time to breastfeed your baby?
If you nodded yes to either of these questions, it’s time to find a good nipple ointment to help.
Let’s have a look at our 5 top picks for best nipple cream for breastfeeding moms.
Best nipple creams and ointments (quick glance)
Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Nipple Cream
- Lanolin-based
- 100% Natural
- No need to wipe off before nursing
Motherlove Nipple Cream
- Lanolin-free
- Organic
- Made with marshmallow root, calendula flower, olive oil, beeswax, and shea butter
- No need to wipe off before nursing
Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter
- Lanolin-free
- Organic
- Made with ethically sourced beeswax
- Non-sticky
- No need to wipe off before nursing
Bella B Nipple Nurture Butter
- Lanolin-free
- Made with shea butter, olive oil, avocado oil, and cocoa butter
- Thick consistency
- No need to wipe off before nursing
Bamboobies Boob-Ease Organic Nipple Balm
- Lanolin-free
- Organic
- Made with shea butter, olive oil, marshmallow root, calendula flower, and beeswax
- No need to wipe off before nursing
How nipple cream products can help
When you’re a breastfeeding mom, a GOOD nipple cream or ointment can provide the relief you oh so desperately need.
Sometimes these products can take a few days before you see some relief, but don’t give up. If one brand doesn’t seem to do the trick, try a different one.
A breastfeeding lotion can help relieve symptoms of discomfort from nursing such as:
- Dryness or itchiness
- Cracked or bleeding nipples
- Pain on or around the nipple
Breastfeeding can feel like a hard skill to master at first, especially when you are experiencing pain or discomfort. However, using a nipple balm before and after you nurse can minimize these uncomfortable side effects (especially once you’ve both settled into a feeding schedule).
But what if I’m pumping? Can nipple creams help me?
For many women, the process of pumping can also be a painful task.
Breastfeeding balms and creams are not just for breastfeeding, but can be used on pumps as well to help relieve any soreness while you extract milk for your baby outside of feeding times.
If that’s not convincing enough, breastfeeding creams can also be used to moisturize other areas like chapped lips, rough elbows, cracked heels, and more.
How to pick the right nipple ointment for you
Deciding on the right ointment can be overwhelming if you have no idea where to start or what to look for.
If you are getting mixed messages from other moms about a nipple cream for nursing, you are not alone. Each mom will have her preference on what types works best for her.
We are here to help you make the best decision. Here are some factors to consider when searching for a product that will work for you and your baby:
Consistency
Try to stick with a nipple cream that is thin enough to apply with ease.
If it’s too thick or sticky, it can cause more pain or may prevent your baby from feeding correctly afterward.
Products that are too thick can stick to nursing bras, making them less effective.
Price
The cost of a product can be a concern for many moms.
But just like any other item in the retail world, these lotions can differ in price significantly.
Remember that often when the product is cheaper, so are the ingredients in the balm.
Ingredients
You may not think what’s IN your nipple cream can be that important, but it can be. Some products use natural ingredients, while others do not.
Also, if there are allergy concerns, checking the components will help avoid any reactions for you or your baby.
Smell or taste
Some breastfeeding creams for sore nipples will have a slight smell or taste.
Infants will sometimes nurse well, no matter what lotion you use, while others can become fussy.
You may have to change brands if your baby does not prefer the smell or taste.
Ease of use
Have you ever given up on a product because it was a hassle to use? No one wants a lotion for breastfeeding that is hard to apply or take with you on the go.
Think about when you will need to use the cream and how easy the application process will be.
Safety
All parents want the best for their babies, especially when it comes to what they may put in their mouth during feedings.
Having a product that is non-toxic and will not create allergic reactions is essential for growing little ones.
The best nipple creams for breastfeeding
1
If you are looking for a lanolin nipple cream, Lansinoh is basically the pack leader.
It’s recommended by doctors and lactation consultants due to its expansive clinical testing procedures. Not only does it soothe the skin, but it also helps protect it for up to 10 hours to prevent further problems.
Lansinoh HPA Lanolin is 100% natural and free of petroleum, parabens, preservatives, and fragrances. It’s safe for mom and baby, and there’s absolutely no need to wash it off before nursing.
Pros:
Cons:
2
Not everyone wants a lanolin product. Some people with wool allergies will want to choose products that do not contain any lanolin. If you have any lanolin concerns, the Motherlove Nipple Cream might suit your needs better.
Motherlove is USDA certified organic and continually meets high standards for social and environmental practices.
This unscented and plant-based nipple cream is made with marshmallow root, calendula flower, extra virgin olive oil, beeswax, and shea butter. There’s no petroleum, parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fillers.
Pros:
Cons:
3
Earth Mama has perfected the art of herb infusion with its organic butter. This product comes as you would expect it to, in a tub as many body butters do.
You work it through your fingers to soften, then apply liberally before and after feeding your baby.
Earth Mama’s Organic Nipple Butter is free of lanolin, petroleum, parabens, and artificial fragrances. You’ll be pleased to hear that it’s also made from ethically sourced beeswax.
Pros:
Cons:
4
The Bella B Nipple Nurture Butter is another great choice if you’re looking for a nipple cream without lanolin.
This plant-based skin balm is made from food-grade ingredients including shea butter, olive oil, avocado oil, and cocoa butter.
If you are looking for a thicker balm that will stay where it is applied that has no detectable taste or smell, Bella B may be what you’re looking.
This nipple cream is also free of petroleum and parabens and has no added water.
Pros:
Cons:
5
The Bamboobies Organic Nipple Balm is another lanolin-free option that’s also certified organic.
This balm gives breastfeeding mothers the soothing relief they need without any added parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances.
Bamboobies uses much of the same natural ingredients found in some other products, including:
- Shea butter
- Beeswax
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Marshmallow root
- Calendula flower
Bamboobies recommends the use of disposable or washable nursing pads to protect your clothing from any staining due to the ingredients.
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Commonly asked questions
Is nipple cream safe for babies to have every day?
Yes, all of these products that we list are completely safe for your baby to have contact with each day.
Can nipple ointment help the healing process?
Yes, by keeping the skin on and around your nipples moisturized regularly, you can keep the dryness away and preventing further cracking or bleeding.
Can you use too much nipple balm?
It is possible to use too much. Often, if you apply too much cream, it will not stay where you want and will rub off on clothes instead.
Can nipple creams cause thrush in my baby?
Nipple creams and lotions will not typically cause thrush. However, if there is prolonged use of a lanolin product, thrush can occur.
Do I have to use nipple cream?
Not all women need to use nipple creams while breastfeeding. It is a proactive approach to moisturize your skin before breastfeeding to help prevent dry and cracked nipples in the future.
Will the products listed stain my clothes?
There’s a good possibility that many, if not all, of these creams and ointments could leave behind stains. Disposable or washable nursing pads are recommended to prevent staining.
Choosing the right nipple cream for you and your baby depends on the factors you consider important.
By examining the ingredients, consistency, ease of use, etc., you can choose the product that’s best and will, hopefully, help ease much of the discomfort you are experiencing from breastfeeding.