What Are the Best Nipple Cream Ingredients?

While breastfeeding is a great time to bond with your newborn, it may leave your nipples with pain or discomfort. A good nipple cream for nursing is a must-have to soothe any discomfort and heal or prevent dry, itchy nipples.

Although there are many different nipple creams available, not all of them contain ingredients that are beneficial or safe for you and your baby. Keep reading to find out why you should use nipple creams and what to look for in a nipple cream.

Why Use a Nipple Cream?

During the first few weeks of breastfeeding, your nipples may become sore, dry, and even crack leading to bleeding. Nipple creams can help keep your sore nipples moisturized and prevent drying out, alleviating any discomfort that comes along with it.

Just as a good moisturizer keeps your face hydrated and healthy, a nipple cream will have the same effect on the nipples. However, you can’t use just any moisturizer on your nipples as the moisturizer that you use has to be safe for consumption. Nipple creams are specially formulated to be safe for you and your baby.

And if you think nipple creams are just for nipples, think again. Because of their moisturizing and healing properties, nipple cream can also be used to treat and prevent stretch marks, eczema, dry skin, dry lips, and diaper rashes.

What to Look for in a Nipple Cream

Choose a nipple cream that is beneficial for your nipple while being safe for your baby. While nipple cream is typically applied after a feeding or pumping, the cream can still linger by the time the next feeding comes around. Consider the following when choosing a nipple cream:

Texture. Choose a product that glides on easily. You don’t want to add any extra pressure to an already sensitive area.
Fragrance. Scents may be off-putting to your newborn and if your little one is especially sensitive, they may refuse to feed. Fragrances don’t offer any benefits to you or your baby so always opt for a gentle, fragrance free nipple cream.
Allergens. Always review ingredient labels to avoid using products you or your baby are allergic to. There’s nothing worse than having an allergic reaction in an already sore and tender area.
Numbing ingredients. Chances are if it numbs your nipples, it will numb your baby’s mouth. This may cause your baby to be unable to feed and suck properly. Avoid nipple creams with numbing agents.
Organic ingredients. These ingredients have been certified to be grown and processed without the use of harsh chemicals. Nipple creams made with natural, organic ingredients are generally safe for you and your baby.

What are the Best Nipple Cream Ingredients?

So what is the best nipple cream for breastfeeding? It varies depending on your allergens and symptoms. Here is a review of some of the best ingredients for nipple creams.

Lanolin. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), medical-grade purified lanolin is the way to go. Lanolin is a byproduct of sheep and is extracted specifically from their wool. However, if you are allergic to wool, steer clear of nipple creams made with lanolin.
Olive oil. Full of antioxidants and vitamins, olive oil promotes healing and provides moisturization to keep your nipples soft and hydrated. Olive oil may also prevent premature skin aging and have antibacterial effects.
Coconut oil. With antibacterial properties, coconut oil has been shown to be effective in treating conditions such as atopic dermatitis or eczema. Coconut oil also has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce and prevent swelling on and around the nipples.
Jojoba seed oil. Containing fatty acids and vitamin E, jojoba oil is an antioxidant with healing properties. Jojoba oil not only soothes sensitive skin, it may also reduce the appearance of stretch marks and prevent further scarring.
Sunflower oil. As a non-comedogenic oil, sunflower oil won’t clog your pores or irritate your already sensitive skin. Sunflower oil is full of vitamin E and linoleic acid which works as an antioxidant and skin-protecting barrier. Sunflower oil has been shown to improve and maintain skin hydration.
Calendula flower. With antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, calendula is a powerhouse. Calendula oil not only heals and soothes sensitive skin, it may also hydrate your skin preventing it from drying and cracking.
Shea butter. Full of fatty acids, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties, shea butter calms sensitive skin, relieving discomforts such as itchy skin. Shea butter may also reduce the appearance of stretch marks and protect the skin from scarring.

For a plant-based organic nipple balm or cream, consider our Nipple Balm made with all-natural ingredients including sunflower oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and calendula flower.

How to Use Nipple Cream

Applying nipple cream is quick and easy. After feeding, pumping, or showering, air dry or gently pat your breasts dry. Wash your hands thoroughly then apply a pea-sized amount to each nipple area. If using a plant-based organic nipple balm like our Nipple Balm, hold the container in your hands for a minute or so to warm up and soften the cream before applying.

Nipple creams are formulated to absorb quickly into your skin so there is no need to wipe it off after applying or before breastfeeding.

The Bottom Line

Nursing can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your baby, but it’s not without its challenges. Sore, chafed nipples are one of the most common effects of breastfeeding but thankfully, nipple creams can help.

Using a cream with the best nipple cream ingredients can keep your nipples moisturized and prevent drying out, alleviating any discomfort that comes along with it. And best of all, nipple creams are quick and easy to apply (and have multi-purpose uses).

Keep your breasts healthy - and happy - with our natural Nipple Balm.