Nail Polish and Breastfeeding?

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.

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/

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. :)

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

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.

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!

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

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!

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