Get Breastfeeding Relief With The Best Nipple Creams (2020 Guide)
When I decided to breastfeed I knew that I not only had to be patient, disciplined, and calm, but I also had to be totally prepared for anything and everything to happen.
That’s why I always had breastfeeding accessories on standby, to make the process smoother.
And one of my favorite items ended up being my nipple cream, for lots of reasons, mostly comfort!
If you’re about to expect your baby and are shopping and stocking up on supplies, definitely add this to your list!
And, read on to learn about the best creams, which creams are safe, the overall benefits of their use, and some features to consider before making a purchase.
Why You'd Want to Use a Nipple Cream
Sometimes, a nursing mother’s nipples can crack or bleed.
They tend to get dried out, and new moms aren’t used to the sensation associated with nursing, so their nipples need to “toughen up.”
Until then, nipples are overly sensitive and simply put, overused!
So, a nipple cream brings some soothing relief. The moisture prevents chafing and helps heal up raw nipples, giving them a true break in between use.
Also, some moms prefer to take preventative measures and they apply nipple cream frequently, so they don’t end up in that uncomfortable boat.
Can Nipple Cream Be Harmful to My Baby?
Some nipple creams are much better to use than others, especially when we're talking about babies ingesting it.
While it’s great to get recommendations from friends and family when choosing a cream, it’s safer to read and understand product labels.
Some ingredients, like comfrey and borage leaf, can be concerning. These herbs contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids and are dangerous when consumed.
In fact, the American Herbal Products Association has issued a statement about pyrrolizidine alkaloids, saying they should not be taken while pregnant or nursing.
These ingredients are especially dangerous when applied to broken skin.
Things to Avoid
Now that you are aware that some nipple creams can be harmful to your baby, here are some other things you should avoid before settling on a cream:
- 1Ingredients with alcohol. This will dry your nipples out even more!
- 2Certain herbs. As mentioned above, comfrey and borage leaf can be trouble.
- 3Fragrances. Always opt for fragrance-free ingredients.
- 4Vitamin E. If your baby ingests Vitamin E, they can get diarrhea, have low energy, and experience cramping.
- 5Investigate springs. If a spring feels shaky or not secure, be sure to investigate it to make sure it’s attached properly. You can easily swap springs out to keep your jumper as good as new!
Features to Look For
What to Expect When You First Start Nursing
Your nipples are about to go on a wild ride when you begin nursing, so it’s important to remember that pain can occur, and it’s temporary.
When you start nursing, you’ll be exposed to a strong vacuum effect. This will really put a strain on your breasts because they will be accessed at least 10-12 times each day.
So, yes, soreness is to be expected!
Once your nipples start to get used to the stress, the process will be less painful and stressful. Just hang in there!
Nipples tend to toughen up quickly and once your baby starts latching with ease, the process will become more enjoyable.
So, right from the get go, begin to apply nursing cream to keep your nipples soft and supple, and as a preventative measure.
If you are in extreme pain, have bleeding or cracked nipples constantly (even after applying a nursing cream), or if you can’t get your baby to latch or feed properly, you should contact your local lactation consultant for help, and even your doctor so you can rule out any problems or infections.
5 Tips for Using Nipple Cream
Not that you know what to look out for before buying a cream, you can make the right purchase and begin to use it.
Here are a few tips for using nipple cream!
First, make sure your nipples are clean (gently wash with warm water) and dry, or just be sure that there is zero breast milk on your nipples. Washing with soap could only dry out your nipples more!
Next, make sure your own hands are clean before you apply anything. This is especially important if your nipples are cracked and bleeding so you can avoid an infection.
Apply the cream liberally, until absorbed. Wait a moment before putting a nursing bra back on. And, when it comes to choosing a bra, you want to go with something that is ultra-breathable, as this helps your nursing area heal.
Apply the cream after each feeding, when you get out of the shower, or pretty much any time you need instant relief. Try to avoid a lotion that you need to remove before nursing, as this can dry out your nipples even more.
Finally, recognize the signs! If your soreness, dryness, bleeding, or cracking is extremely painful and is going on for more than a week, it’s time to call the doctor and stop nursing for a bit. You could have thrush and need medical treatment!
Best Nipple Creams for Breastfeeding
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1. Motherlove
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2. Lansinoh
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3. Earth Mama Angel Baby
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4. The Honest Company
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5. ERA Organics Soothing Nipple Cream
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6. Bamboobies
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7. Medela
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8. Bella B Naturals
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9. UpSpring Baby
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10. Era Organics
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#1. Motherlove
Motherlove (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a 100 percent organic salve that softens and heals your nipples.
You might want to consider this easy to apply nipple cream if you are looking for something to relieve sore, cracked nipples associated with breastfeeding.
We like
It doesn’t need to be washed off before breastfeeding. Because this nipple cream is made from all natural ingredients and has zero toxins, it is completely safe for your baby to ingest.
A nipple cream that won't stain your clothes. This nipple cream for breastfeeding is compatible with reusable nursing pads and bras without worry of discoloration.
It’s easy to apply. Unlike harder creams, this nipple cream is made with ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil and beeswax that coat your skin with a smooth application.
Keep in mind
It has an herby smell. When first applied this nipple cream can have a semi-strong smell that your baby may not enjoy as much as you.
#2. Lansinoh
It’s easy to see why this Lansinoh cream (click here to check the price on Amazon) is recommended by lactation consultants.
The all natural, single ingredient cream is safe for both mom and baby.
If you are looking for a high-quality nipple cream that will help sooth and alleviate pain due to breastfeeding, this one might be for you.
We like
Single ingredient product. Made with the world's purest form of lanolin so you know you're getting a high-quality, preservative-free product.
It’s thick. This nipple cream will outlast others on the market and keep your nipples feeling good without the need to reapply as often.
Convenient tube packaging. Unlike other nipple creams, there is no need to get your fingers all greasy with this tube.
Keep in mind
It can stain your clothes. Be sure to use nursing pads if you decide to go with this cream. Otherwise, you may be left with grease marks on your clothing.
#3. Earth Mama Angel Baby
Earth Mama Angel Baby (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a clinically tested, hospital recommended butter that promotes healing between feeding times.
This balm is made with all natural plant butter like organic calendula, to make your body feel better throughout the day.
We like
It’s not sticky. This organic formula was designed to melt into your skin with a butter-like effect.
Great for multi-use. The soothing powers of this balm can be used for other sensitive areas of your body. It makes a great cream for diaper rash as well.
Safe to use during and after feeding time. This nipple cream will not clog your duct or give you milk blister like heavier creams on the market.
Keep in mind
It’s big. While the extra product is always welcome to your wallet, you might find its too big to fit in your purse. Moms on the go already have enough things to worry about without being loaded down with heavy products of their own.
#4. The Honest Company
This organic nipple balm from The Honest Company (click here to check the price on Amazon) conditions and hydrates sore, chapped nipples by nourishing your skin tissue, and there's no need to wash this nipple cream off before breastfeeding.
If you are looking for a nipple cream that has ingredients you can actually pronounce, this may be the one for you.
We like
Perfect consistency. This balm is neither greasy or sticky. Because there is no lanolin in this product, you won’t experience stains to your clothing either.
It’s cruelty-free. There were no animals used in the testing of this nipple cream.
All natural ingredients. You won’t find phthalates, petroleum, perfumes, dyes, parabens, or gluten in this product. Instead, you will love the creamy feeling of the hydrating sunflower and coconut oils.
Keep in mind
It’s not flavorless. If you notice your baby is fussy or doesn’t want to latch when using this nipple cream, you may want to consider rinsing it off beforehand.
#5. ERA Organics Soothing Nipple Cream
If you have raw and chewed nipples from constantly feeding your baby, check out this ERA Organics Soothing Nipple Cream (click here to check the price on Amazon). This product is designed to both soothe and hydrate cracked, dry, and damaged skin due to breastfeeding.
We like
Safe – This product is designed to be totally safe for babies and mommies alike. It is Lanolin free, paraben free, alcohol free, and does not contain mineral oil, petroleum, or perfumes.
Food Grade – There are various ingredients here which help to soothe and hydrate skin. They are all hypoallergenic and food grade, thus making this product safe and non-toxic. The main ingredients here include sunflower oil, cocoa butter, apricot oil, arrowroot powder, chamomile extract, and calendula oil.
Soothing & Hydrating – The various ingredients that this cream is made with help to soothe damaged skin, hydrate dry skin, and heal cracked or chapped skin caused by breastfeeding. It can even help to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Keep in mind
Smell – The ERA Organics Soothing Nipple Cream has a very potent smell, almost like maple syrup, which some people may not enjoy.
Texture – For some reason, this product has a rather grainy texture that can feel quite odd.
#6. Bamboobies
Bamboobies (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a USDA certified organic nipple cream that's perfect for on the go moms. This nipple cream acts in three ways to give you and your baby a relaxing feeding time.
If you are on the hunt for a nipple cream that is lightweight, and centers around the healing qualities of olive oil, this is a great option.
We like
It's incredibly light. The soothing olive oil base can be applied quickly with your finger or the assistance of a q-tip for instant relief.
Ease your aches in three ways. Not only does this nipple cream sooth your pain, but it moisturizes and gives you a protective layer as well. Use this product to prevent nipple discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Ideal for on the go. Pop this in your diaper bag and easily apply it whenever needed.
Keep in mind
It can leave grease stains. Although this product tends to come out in the wash, it’s best to use nursing pads when using this nipple cream.
#7. Medela
This powerful nipple cream from Medela (click here to check the price on Amazon) was designed especially for mothers with lactation problems.
You might want to consider this Lanolin based nipple cream if you are looking for something that will be strong enough to heal dry, cracked and even bleeding nipples.
We like
Mess free. The tube design allows for a mess-free application. You won’t need to dip your fingers into a container to get to your nipple cream when you have a baby in tow and find yourself one handed.
Perfect for multiple uses. You can use this powerful nipple cream for all the sensitive areas of the body.
It’s hypoallergenic. This product is safe for both you and your baby, so no need to wipe down before feeding time. A great option for mothers with sensitive skin or shea/cocoa butter allergies as well.
Keep in mind
It could have pesticides. While it is safe for both you and baby, you might not want to apply it directly before you feed. Some forms of lanonil have been known to have small amounts of pesticides in them.
#8. Bella B Naturals
Prevent and soothe aching nipples with this cocoa and shea butter nipple cream from Bella B Naturals (click here to check the price on Amazon).
Whether feeding or pumping, this fresh smelling nipple cream gives you the protection you need. If you are looking for a lanonil-free alternative, you may want to think about this option.
We like
Two great products in one. It comes with a fantastic firming cream designed to help you with stretch marks and cellulite after your baby is born.
It’s hypoallergenic. Both products are paraben free, so you won’t have to worry even if you have sensitive skin.
Safe for both you and your little one. This nipple cream is made with food-grade, plant-based ingredients so you can feed at will without having to wipe yourself down.
Keep in mind
Needs to be rubbed in well. This product has a grainy texture until it’s massaged into your skin. It could be irritating to extremely sore nipples.
#9. UpSpring Baby
UpSpring Baby (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a nipple cream recommended by lactation consultants to expedite healing of breastfeeding related sensitivity.
You might want to consider this all natural nipple cream that was made in the USA if you are looking for a lanonil-free alternative.
We like
It’s ideal for sensitive skin. This coconut oil based nipple cream is free of lanonil, petroleum, paraben, gluten, and GMO’s. You can be confident that you are not introducing harmful chemicals into your little one’s body.
Light formula. A nipple cream that glides on like a salve for a light, non-greasy application.
Great smelling. You and your baby will love the naturally sweet smell of the coconut oil as you put this nipple cream on your breast.
Keep in mind
Better for warm climates. When this nipple cream becomes cold, it can be quite irritating to get out of the container. Especially if you are one handed as many mothers of newborns often are.
#10. Era Organics
Era Organics (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a USDA-certified organic nipple cream that protects and treats chapped raw nipples.
Made with 100 percent, natural ingredients, this cocoa-based butter won’t need to be cleaned off before your child’s feeding time.
If you're looking for an organic, cruelty-free nipple cream, this one might be for you.
We like
Loaded with anti-inflammatory ingredients. Cocoa butter, sunflower oil, and rosemary are just a few of the ingredients in this product that are known to reduce pain and irritation when applied topically.
Toxin and chemical free. You won’t find alcohol, petroleum, fragrance, mineral oils or parabens in this natural nipple cream.
Great for all your sensitive areas. Use this nipple cream on other dry, chapped areas such as your knees, elbows, and lips.
Keep in mind
It’s lumpy. You need to work this cream in, to get it to work properly. It can take a couple of seconds to melt into your skin wholly.
Wrapping Up
Nursing takes a lot of effort, and you deserve to be comfortable during and after the process.
Choose to get some relief and protection by using the best nipple cream.
Follow the tips above and become a label reader so you can make sure the ingredients are safe and effective!
