Is Zinc Oxide compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Zinc Oxide?

Zinc Oxide

July 21, 2017 (Very Low Risk)

It is used topically as an astringent and skin protector, very often together with small amounts of Ferric Oxide to form Calamine (see specific info). It is a product compatible with breastfeeding according to WHO Essential Medicine’s List - 2002.
It is also used in dental hygiene products and cosmetics.

Widely used for skin protection of the diaper area in infants.

Because of the small dose used and poor absorption into plasma of most topical dermatological preparations, excretion into breastmilk in significant amount appears to be unlikely.

Do not apply on the breast to prevent infant ingestion; otherwise, wash it off thoroughly with water before the next breast feed.


See below the information of this related product:

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Zinc Oxide since it is relatively safe.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • Blanco de zinc
  • Flowers of Zinc

Writings

  • ψευδαργύρου οξείδιο (Greek)
  • Окись Цинка (Cyrillic)
  • 酸化亜鉛 (Japanese)
  • ZnO (Molecular formula)

References

  1. Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS. Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatol Res Pract. 2014Abstract
  2. Gozen D, Caglar S, Bayraktar S, Atici F. Diaper dermatitis care of newborns human breast milk or barrier cream. J Clin Nurs. 2014Abstract