For pregnant women and mothers of newborns, continuing a Botox routine must be carefully considered, particularly as pre-and-post-natal health become the primary concerns. To decide whether a treatment is safe, healthcare professionals (like dentists and doctors) must have sufficient research available for them to make an informed opinion.
Unfortunately, when it comes to Botox, that research simply doesn’t exist. Admittedly, because it is a localized treatment, the primary ingredient will likely not enter into the breast milk of a nursing mother. Due to the lack of necessary research, however, the safety of a Botox while breastfeeding can’t be guaranteed.
In fact, most medical professionals would refuse to perform a Botox treatment on a pregnant or nursing mother. This makes it all the more important to inform them if you are currently breastfeeding.
Alternatives to Botox While Breastfeeding
For new mothers looking forward to their next Botox treatment, this means that the wait may have to last a while longer. Here are a few safe options you can enjoy in place of Botox while pregnant or nursing:
1. Relief for Jaw Pain and Migraines
For new mothers who use Botox to ease jaw pain or migraines, a few alternatives do exist that are approved for safe use while breastfeeding. Drugs containing triptans, particularly, can be used when breastfeeding, as long as breastfeeding is avoided for 24 hours after your last dose. Storing some breast milk in advance can be a great way to avoid complications.
2. Topical Applications for a Smoother Face
On the other hand, as a new mother, you may simply wish to maintain a healthy complexion. An effective, surface-level alternative might include products containing Argireline. This is an active chemical ingredient that, like Botox, relaxes the facial muscles and smooths the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This product works less effectively than an injection, of course, but a more supple complexion means less stress after those sleepless nights.
3. Spa Day!
Speaking of stress, why not trade one luxury for another? With Botox temporarily off the table for pregnant or nursing mothers, a spa day might be the perfect way to treat yourself, relax your nerves, and rejuvenate your complexion with a nice facial. Some much-needed time off, with good hydration and moisturizing, can help to improve your skin tone without injections.
Contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about receiving Botox while breastfeeding or pregnant, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates about special events and seminars!
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(Post was originally published on 6/2/2016 and has since been updated on 2/5/2019)