Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Glycolic Acid? Is Glycolic Acid safe for nursing mother and child? Does Glycolic Acid extracts into breast milk? Does Glycolic Acid has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Glycolic Acid influence milk supply or can Glycolic Acid decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Glycolic Acid lactation summary

Glycolic Acid is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Glycolic Acid is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Glycolic Acid is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Glycolic Acid does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Glycolic Acid safe in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Glycolic Acid usage in lactation

Natural organic acid which is a part of alpha-hydroxy acids group or fruit acids (citric, lactic, malic and mandelic) with keratolytic and moisturizing properties on the skin.Topically used for acne, psoriasis and pigmentation disorders. At latest update relevant published data were not found on excretion into breast milk. The small dose used and poor passage to plasma of most topical dermatological preparations make unlikely an excretion into breast milk in significant amounts. It is very irritating. Do not apply it on the breast to prevent ingestion by the infant; otherwise, do it just after a meal and clean the nipple thoroughly with water before the next feed.

Answer by DrLact: About Glycolic Acid usage in lactation

No information is available on the clinical use of glycolic acid (hydroxyacetic acid) on the skin during breastfeeding. Because it is unlikely to be appreciably absorbed or appear in breastmilk, it is considered safe to use during breastfeeding.[1][2] Avoid application to areas of the body that might come in direct contact with the infant's skin or where the drug might be ingested by the infant via licking.
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.