Can 15% azelaic acid gel be used during breastfeeding?

Jan 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, 15% azelaic acid cream may be used during lactation as directed by a physician. The main ingredient of 15% azelaic acid cream is azelaic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that is not a hormonal medication and does not contain ingredients harmful to the fetus or infant. Azelaic acid cream is clinically used to treat skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and urticaria.

Generally speaking, azelaic acid gel refers to azelaic acid cream. During lactation, 15% azelaic acid cream may be used under medical supervision. Detailed explanation is as follows:

The main component of 15% azelaic acid cream is azelaic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that is not a hormonal medication and does not contain ingredients harmful to fetuses or infants. Clinically, azelaic acid cream is commonly used to treat skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and urticaria. It has multiple functions, including acne removal, antibacterial action, anti-inflammatory effects, prevention of excessive follicular keratinization, and inhibition of melanin production. When using 15% azelaic acid cream, care should be taken to avoid applying it to areas that the infant may come into contact with, such as the nipples or fingers. However, when extensive application or long-term continuous use is required, the absorption of the medication through the skin may increase, which could potentially affect the infant during breastfeeding, so caution is advised in such cases.

Good personal hygiene should be maintained in daily life, and skin-irritating products should be avoided to preserve skin health and promote the effectiveness of medications.