Nail Polish and Breastfeeding?

Updated on March 26, 2011
J.R. asks from Washington, DC
9 answers

OK, probably a silly question, but I just want to be sure. I am still bfeeding my 18 month year old 3 times a day. Can I use nail polish? Does any of the chemicals get absorbed in the system?

Sorry if this is a no-brainer....Thanks as usual for your thoughtful advice...

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M.H.

answers from Fort Walton Beach on

Hi J.,

Chemicals of concern in nail polish are formaldehyde, which can be absorbed through nails and skin, and is thought to be a carcinogen by the EPA and the National Toxicology Program, as well as toluene, which is a skin and respiratory tract irritant. In extreme amounts, it can cause liver damage. If it can absorb into the skin, then it can get into the bloodstream. There are non-toxic nail polishes. I also refer to www.cosmeticsdatabase.com for information.

M.

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L.

answers from Mobile on

You can check out this website to find products that tend to be safer/have fewer dangerous chemicals in them. I've tried the health food store types, and they never set--they just run off of your nail--so I find a somewhat better scoring name brand to be a fair compromise.

http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

2 moms found this helpful
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W.T.

answers from San Diego on

They might...if you really want to be careful there are vegan nail polishes you can buy that are super clean.

I would have worried a bit during pregnancy, but not while BF. The body does a pretty good job of filtering things out.

I do use nail polish, but switched to a natural deodorant since my baby is always snuggled up in my armpit while nursing lying down. I think those horrible deodorants are more of a threat than your nail polish would be.

Not to add more things for you to think about, but you are obviously conscious, so wanted to mention it. :)

1 mom found this helpful
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E.R.

answers from New York on

Be careful of Titanium Dioxide in many nail polish brands ! this compound chemical has been linked to cancer as a known carcinogen.

1 mom found this helpful
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M.K.

answers from Stationed Overseas on

I used nail polish throughout my pregnancy and while I BF for 17mo. I don't think it's affected my daughter in anyway. My OB also told me not to worry about it.

1 mom found this helpful
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T.B.

answers from Miami on

I painted my nails during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. I even colored my hair in my last trimester. All 3 of my children came out just fine. Color your nails!

1 mom found this helpful
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K.M.

answers from Miami on

Congrats on still nursing! I'm also still nursing my 18 month old. Yes, nail polish is fine to use.

1 mom found this helpful

H.S.

answers from Cincinnati on

It's ok to be concerned! As a mother, and nail tech for 6 years, I will tell you that you have nothing to worry about! You can paint your nails all you want!

1 mom found this helpful
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S.W.

answers from Miami on

Don't worry about the "small stuff"
Congrats on the new family member and many blessings, S.

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