I remember nursing my son for the first few times in the hospital, my nipples became dry and cracked, and the pain unbearable. Even though I told the nurses that I wanted to stop because of the pain, they still encouraged me to go on because he was just starting to get the hang of it. After an exhausting round of breast-feeding, I was handed a nipple cream to soothe the dryness and soreness, but it didn’t give much relief.

When I started to research ingredients to make my own all-natural nipple cream, I learned some interesting facts about an ingredient in commonly used nipple creams…

That ingredient was, Laonlin. Lanolin is a wax-like substance derived from the wool of sheep, and it is commonly used in many nipple creams to moisturize and soothe sore nipples. However, there are several reasons why lanolin may not be the best choice for new moms.

  1. lanolin allergies are not uncommon.

If you have a wool allergy, you may be allergic to lanolin as well. Using a nipple cream that contains lanolin could cause an allergic reaction, leading to further discomfort and pain.

  1. lanolin is not vegan-friendly

If you are a vegan or vegetarian, using a product that contains animal-derived ingredients may not align with your lifestyle and values. In addition, the extraction process of lanolin from sheep's wool can involve the use of pesticides and other chemicals that may not be environmentally friendly.

  1. There have been concerns about the safety of lanolin in nipple creams.

 While lanolin is generally recognized as safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there have been reports of contamination with harmful bacteria. In addition, lanolin can be difficult to remove from clothing and may stain.

So, what are the alternatives to lanolin in nipple creams? There are several plant-based options that are safe and effective for soothing sore nipples, and our Boob Balm is made with the best ingredients with your healing in mind. Here are some ingredient highlights:

Avocado Oil: Full of minerals and vitamins A, C, D, and E. It is an excellent source of enrichment for dry or damaged skin. It has also been shown to increase collagen synthesis which helps repair damaged skin cells.

Sunflower Seed Oil: High in Linoleic Acid which must be physically replenished because our bodies can not make this essential fatty acid ourselves. Linoleic Acid creates a stronger skin barrier to keep moisture in and keep irritants out.

Coconut Oil:  Rich in fatty acids to provide moisture. It also has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties.

Beeswax: Provides a protective barrier on the nipple to help prevent water loss.

Every time your baby nurses, it has the same effect as when you lick your lips and they end up drier. Our Boob Balm is formulated to restore that moisture and reduce inflammation. The ingredients are perfectly safe for your baby, and you.

 Choosing the best postpartum care products is essential for your recovery and overall well being. While nipple creams can be a lifesaver for new moms, it's important to be aware of the ingredients in the products you choose. Lanolin may not be the best option for everyone. Take a look at our Boob Balm, Here, and remember, taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your baby!

April 10, 2023 — Kyra Venable

Leave a comment

Contact us

Have questions? We're here to offer tips and advice!