By Hilary Metcalfe
When I was breastfeeding, I became obsessed with reading ingredient labels. Suddenly, everything I put on my skin mattered so much more—because it wasn’t just about me anymore. My baby’s tiny hands would grab at my chest, their face would rest against my skin for hours, and I realised that whatever I applied to my body could transfer directly to them.
But here’s the problem: not all skincare marketed to mums is actually safe for babies. Many balms, creams, and body oils contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, petroleum-based ingredients, and hormone-disrupting chemicals—things I wouldn’t want anywhere near my baby’s delicate skin.
That’s why choosing non-toxic, baby-safe skincare is one of the best things a breastfeeding mum can do. Whether it’s a nipple balm for sore feeds, a stretch mark oil for postpartum healing, or a deeply hydrating cream to soothe dry skin, here are some of the best clean, nourishing, and truly safe options.
1. The Best Non-Toxic Balms for Breastfeeding Mums
A good balm is a lifesaver for breastfeeding. Whether it’s for sore nipples, cracked hands from endless washing, or healing postpartum skin, choosing a formula that is free from synthetic additives is key.
1.1. Nipple Balms That Are 100% Safe for Baby Ingestion
Breastfeeding mums need a pure, non-toxic nipple balm that doesn’t require wiping off before a feed.
Top Baby-Safe Nipple Balms:
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Organic Babies Nipple Balm – Made with calendula, shea butter, and beeswax, this organic balm soothes and protects sore skin.
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Weleda Nipple Balm – Free from synthetic preservatives, this balm is made with lanolin, calendula, and chamomile to heal and hydrate.
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Nature’s Child Organic Nipple Balm – A certified organic, ultra-gentle balm containing cocoa butter and olive oil.
✔ No synthetic preservatives or fragrances
✔ Safe for baby ingestion—no need to wipe off
✔ Deeply hydrating and soothing
1.2. Multi-Use Balms for Dry, Sensitive Skin
New mums often experience extreme dryness—from overwashed hands, postpartum hormonal shifts, and constant baby contact. A high-quality, non-toxic balm can be used on hands, lips, dry patches, and even baby’s skin.
Best Multi-Purpose Balms:
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The SABI Prebiotic Moisturiser – A deeply nourishing body cream that restores the skin’s microbiome and strengthens the skin barrier.
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Evolve Beauty Multi-Purpose Balm – With baobab, shea butter, and rosehip oil, this balm is ultra-hydrating and pregnancy-safe.
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Neal’s Yard Remedies Baby Balm – Made for both mum and baby, with coconut oil and shea butter.
✔ Deeply hydrating for postpartum skin
✔ Free from parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrances
✔ Safe for mum and baby
2. The Best Non-Toxic Oils for Postpartum & Breastfeeding Mums
Skin can feel tight, stretched, or dry after birth, and a high-quality oil can help restore elasticity while being safe for breastfeeding.
2.1. Stretch Mark & Recovery Oils
During pregnancy and postpartum, keeping skin deeply moisturised can help with stretch marks, itching, and overall skin repair.
Top Safe & Natural Body Oils:
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Pai Skincare Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil – Rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants, this oil helps with scarring and elasticity.
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Weleda Stretch Mark Massage Oil – Infused with sweet almond oil, wheat germ oil, and arnica, this oil improves skin’s elasticity and helps prevent stretch marks.
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UpCircle Beauty Organic Face & Body Oil – A zero-waste, organic oil that nourishes postpartum skin with jojoba and sea buckthorn oils.
✔ Deeply hydrating and gentle on sensitive postpartum skin
✔ Free from synthetic additives, parabens, and silicones
✔ Vegan and cruelty-free options available
2.2. Baby-Safe Massage Oils
Bonding through gentle baby massage is a beautiful way for new mums to connect with their babies. However, many commercial baby oils contain mineral oil or artificial fragrances, which can be irritating to newborn skin.
Best Baby-Safe Oils:
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Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Baby Massage Oil – Made with apricot kernel and sunflower oils, perfect for baby’s delicate skin.
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Little Aurelia Sleep Time Massage Oil – A luxurious, organic oil infused with chamomile and lavender to promote relaxation.
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Green People Organic Babies Soothing Oil – A completely fragrance-free, baby-safe oil made with omega-rich plant oils.
✔ No synthetic fragrances or petrochemicals
✔ Gentle enough for newborn skin
✔ Hydrating for both mum and baby
3. Simple, Non-Toxic Self-Care for Breastfeeding Mums
Taking care of your skin while breastfeeding shouldn’t feel like a complicated routine. Sometimes, all a mum needs is one deeply nourishing product—a balm, an oil, a moment of care that fits into her already-full day.
How to Create a Simple, Non-Toxic Skincare Routine for a Breastfeeding Mum:
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Morning: A quick spritz of The SABI Revive Face Mist to wake up tired skin.
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Throughout the day: A multi-use balm for dry lips, hands, and any sore areas.
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Evening: A soothing massage with a baby-safe body oil, restoring moisture while bonding with baby.
Taking Care of Yourself is Taking Care of Your Baby
Your skin is your baby’s first home—it’s where they rest, where they find comfort, where they feel safe. The products you choose aren’t just for you; they’re for both of you.
That’s why we created The SABI Prebiotic Moisturiser—not just to nourish postpartum skin, but to offer a moment of self-care in a time that often feels like it’s all about giving.
Because you deserve care, too.
HORMONAL & PROUD
Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.
We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.
