In Search of Vegan Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding

What’s wrong with Lanolin?

Lanolin is a wax taken from captive or killed wooly animals, especially lambs and sheep. This peer-reviewed study also found that using lanolin on sore nipples was no more effective than using nothing. The study also found that sore nipples treated with lanolin took longer to heal than nipples treated with breastmilk.

Many people are allergic to lanolin and it can sometimes take parents months of frustration before figuring out that their child has this allergy.

What about Honey?

When it comes to honey, bees spend a lifetime producing a small amount of honey to feed their young. Bees are insects which are part of the animal kingdom, and so by definition, honey is not vegan. You can read more about issues with honey here.

But, I’m happy to report that after a little research, I have found several vegan nipple creams, all safe for baby to ingest while breastfeeding. I’ve also included a few alternative methods for relieving sore nipples. Please note that Earth Mama’s nipple cream which many vegan moms had relied on, is no longer vegan. Update: Earth Mama has now released a separate vegan nipple cream.

List of Vegan Nipple Cream

Earth Mama Vegan Nipple Butter

• Cruelty-free and vegan.
• Non-GMO project verified.
• Please note that Earth Mama’s vegan version says vegan right on the box. They have another nipple cream that is not vegan.

Free the Nips Nursing Balm by Handmade Heroes

• Cruelty-free and vegan.
• Calendula Oil is used to soothe.
• “Made without beeswax, lanolin, vitamin E, petroleum, mineral oil, gluten, artificial fragrances, synthetic chemicals, parabens and preservatives.”
• Well-reviewed. Products on Amazon often have fake reviews. Free the Nips scored an A (highest possible grade) on Fakespot meaning its reviews are trustworthy.
• “Completely safe for baby” according to manufacturer.

Nursing Balm by Nature Bare

• Cruelty-free and vegan.
• Comes in a metal tin rather than plastic.
• Contains avocado oil, candelilla wax, organic shea butter, organic cocoa butter, meadowfoam seed oil, and organic coconut oil.
• “No need to wash off prior to breastfeeding since all ingredients are non toxic, food grade and safe for baby” according to manufacturer.

Fix that Sucker Nipstick by The Spoiled Mama

• Cruelty-free and vegan.
• Comes in a push-up dispenser to avoid germs fingers in a jar.
• “Safe for baby to ingest while breastfeeding” according to manufacturer.

Alternative Vegan Ways to Soothe Sore Nipples for Breastfeeding Moms

Your Own Breastmilk

• Did you know breastmilk has proven healing properties?
• Put some of your own breastmilk on your nipples before feeding. Then let some of it air dry on your nipples after feeding.

Raw Organic Coconut Oil

• Many lactation consultants recommend using coconut oil instead of lanolin to aid in healing and for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
• Coconut oil is a food and is safe for baby to ingest while breastfeeding.

The Original Silver Nursing Cups by Silverette

• Made from sterling silver.
• Pricier but will last forever.
• Product relies on the natural antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of silver.
• Well reviewed. Products on Amazon often have fake reviews. These Silverette Nursing Cups scored an A (highest rating) on Fakespot, meaning the reviews are trustworthy.
• Clean with water and baking soda to maintain shine.

I hope you found this post helpful. If you have a favorite vegan nipple cream, please share it in the comments.