As breastfeeding mothers, you are likely had experience with a sore and cracked nipple. Some more severe cracks can cause bleeding from the nipple too. If you are experiencing such pain, a nipple cream can be a great help to soothe and alleviate the soreness and also heal the pain.
Which Is The Best Nipple Cream For You?
There are ample of nipple creams in the market, and you will probably be confused by the choices and not sure which one is the best nipple cream you should buy
While I have already written a post on the topic of how to choose the best nipple cream, in this post, I will list out the best nipple creams that are currently recommended by mothers.
In a hurry and got no time to read through the whole post. No problem! Use the quick navigation table and jump to 'Our Favorite' and see which nipple creams that we think is the best!
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Why Not Lanolin-Based Nipple Cream?
As mentioned in this post, the lanolin-based cream is effective in soothing and healing chapped skin. Many older generations mothers use lanolin cream but do you know that lanolin contains a heavy load of pesticides? Some study also suggests that lanolin-based nipple cream is not as effective as what people may perceive.
To make the lanolin cream, lanolin is first recovered from shaved sheep’s wool. The wool is soaked in chemicals to remove parasites before the lanolin is scoured out of it and at the moment there are no truly organic options out there.
Knowing that the baby will eventually ingest a portion of the nipple cream through breastfeeding, it’s this reason that let me avoid this nipple cream altogether. However, if you want to try lanolin-based nipple cream, the safer option will be the Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Cream.
According to the manufacturer website, Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Cream has been refined to remove all allergenic components. The company also claimed that Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Cream is free of additives, preservatives, and pesticides.
Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Olive Oil And Breast Milk
When nipple cream is not available, you can find relief from products in your kitchen cupboard. Using a dab of olive oil or coconut oil after each feeding can help healing and prevent infection. It's also safe for baby to latch on while the oil is on your nipple.
Most mothers that I spoke to say that the best nipple cream made of coconut-based are from UpSpring Wellmom. Made with USDA certified organic ingredients. It does not contain lanolin, petroleum, paraben, gluten and GMOs and does not need to be removed before breastfeeding. Best of all, it’s made in the USA.
Breast milk also works wonder in healing crack nipple. Dab some breast milk whenever you are done breastfeeding or pumping and leave it air-dry before wearing back your bra or top.
14 Best Nipple Creams And The Organic Nipple Creams
These are pesticide free, all-natural salve and balm. I have scouted the web and various mother forums and gather only the organic creams that recommended by mothers and also received a high rating.
I have written a summary of each cream for your ease of reading. While these creams are great but some may still contain some preservatives in them, though. Although preservatives are needed to maintain the shelf life of the cream but we will carefully select the one that is safe for mothers and babies.
These are the best of the natural salves and balms available.
Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter
The Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter is not only a vegan option but it is cruelty-free and non-Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) cream.
While most organic cream uses beeswax as the softening agent, but this nipple butter softening agent is based on various plant extracts. Earth Mama Angel Baby cream texture lets your skin absorbs it fast and heals faster.
The Good Stuff
- It's lanolin-free and does not need to wash it off before nursing.
- The natural cocoa extract in it gives off a chocolaty scent, and it's safe if consumed. However, some babies do get gas due to the cocoa extract, so watch for symptoms.
- Skin Deep rating has this product on 0/10 risk, and that mean risk-free!. To learn more about Skin-Deep hazard rating, visit their website.
- Can last for at least 36 months even without preservative. The reason for it long shelf life due to the main ingredient is not water and it makes is difficult for bacteria, mold or yeast to grow.
- Hospital grade cream. Clinically and dermatologically tested, and free of common allergens and toxic-free.
- Does not need to remove before feeding or pumping.
- Organically certified by Oregon Tilth.
- Made in the USA
The Cons
- A tad bit expensive compared to other brands.
- Melt easily if leave near to extreme heat.
Motherlove Nipple Cream
Motherlove Nipple Cream is 100% certified organic! It is an herbal ointment that accelerates healing. It is rather expensive, but many mothers love this salve. You can use less and still heal quickly. It can also be used as a diaper cream too!
The Good Stuff
- Does not need to remove before feeding or pumping.
- Safe for ingestion by the baby. An all-natural herbal salve and non-GMO.
- Easy to use. It glides on smoothly.
- It soothes, heal and relieves pain quickly.
- Not scented. Will not put off your baby from nursing.
- Contained organic extra virgin oil and organic beeswax.
- Can be used as diaper rash ointment too.
- Come in a glass jar.
- Toxic-free and 0/10 Deep Skin hazard rating.
- Certified organic by Oregon Tilth.
- Each product purchased is partially supporting the Nurturing Life Foundation.
The Cons
- Only available in small size.
- A tad bit expensive compared to other brands.
- Not vegan-friendly. It contains beeswax.
Bamboobies Boobease
The Bamboobies Boobease is one of the best nipple creams and works as the name promises, fast! The texture is smooth and protects soft skin with a barrier. It has only 5 simple ingredients and has an olive oil fragrance finishing.
The downside is that it's greasy and can melt in hot climates. It can stain clothes so wear a protective pad or nursing pad to avoid ruining your top or bra.
The Good Stuff
- Does not need to remove before feeding or pumping.
- The perfect salve for pain and cracked nipples caused by breastfeeding or pumping.
- 100% Certified Organic by USDA and Oregon Tilth.
- 5 simple ingredients: virgin olive oil, beeswax, shea butter, marshmallow root and calendula flower.
- All ingredients are safe for mother and baby, even children with allergies or eczema.
- Lanolin-free. Non-toxic.
- Vaseline like texture. Smooth and rub onto your skin well.
The Cons
- Not vegan-friendly. It contains beeswax.
- The balm is rather greasy. If leaves too near extream heat area, the balm turns into a thick liquid easily.
- Can easily stain your top or bra. Use it together with the Bamboobies nursing pad to prevent staining.
- More expensive compare to other brands.
Milky Nipple Nurture Balm
This organic product is 100% vegan. Its primary ingredient - olive oil, gives off a mild scent. The balm is solid till it rests on your fingers and then it melts gradually, perfect for applying on very sore and sensitive skin.
Many mothers think this is the best nipple cream as it helps prevent the pinching sensation when using a breast pump. This creates a better pump suction and allows you to express more milk without feeling fatigue on your breast.
The Good Stuff
- Does not need to remove before feeding or pumping.
- Recommended by lactation professionals.
- Uses organic herbal ingredients only - Marshmallow root, Self heal, Calendula, Shea butter, Beeswax and Extra virgin olive oil.
- Not tested on animals, and contains no artificial colors, preservatives or animal products.
- Gain multiple awards for an excellent product.
- Lanolin-free.
- Non-toxic.
- Made in the USA.
The Cons
- Not vegan-friendly. It contains beeswax.
- Cannot withstand heat. If leaves too near to extreme heat area, the balm can melt quickly. So, never leave them under the hot sun.
- Some mothers complain that the balm was already melted when open due to poor handling while delivery. If so, file a complaint to where you purchase and exchange a new one.
Hey Mama All Natural Nipple Cream
The Hey Mama Nipple Cream is a 100% all-natural nipple cream made of all the goodness of beeswax, coconut oil, cocoa & shea butter, olive oil, calendula flowers, and marshmallow root.
You will find it very helpful to heal sore and cracked nipples. This salve has no-GMO products in it too!
The Good Stuff
- Does not need to remove before feeding or pumping.
- Contains soothing moisturizers that protect sore nipples from chaffing or soreness caused by breastfeeding.
- Can be use on nips, lips and dry skin too.
- The natural cocoa extract in it gives off a chocolaty scent, and it's safe if consumed. However, some babies do get gas due to the cocoa extract, so watch for symptoms.
- Contains no artificial dyes or fragrance.
- Certified organic by Oregon Tilth.
- Non-toxic.
- Lanolin-free.
- Made in the USA.
The Cons
- Some mother complains the scent of the balm, but it does not put off the baby from nursing, though.
- Not vegan-friendly. It contains beeswax.
Dr. Jack Newman’s All-Purpose Nipple Ointment (APNO)
The APNO is only available through prescription. APNO is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-fungal medicine that will heal any damage to your nipple. It is the best nipple cream if you have significant nipple damage or a Candida infection.
The ingredients used in this cream are bought separately and mixed either at the compounding pharmacist or by you. It is considered safe by Dr. Jack Newman a pediatrician specialized in breastfeeding. Here are the ingredients:
- Mupirocin ointment 2% - 15 grams
- Miconazole powder to a concentration of 2%
- Betamethasone ointment 0.1% 15 grams
The Good Stuff
- Does not need to be washed off before feedings.
- Safe and recommended by pediatrician.
The Cons
- Not easily available over-the-counter.
Honest Organic Nipple Balm
This organic cream has olive oil, aloe, shea butter and tamanu! The skin recovers with this hydrating and nourishing cream. It does not need to be taken off before feeding. It is 100% vegetarian and hypoallergenic too!
The Good Stuff
- Help relieve irritation and help revitalize sensitive, sore or chapped nursing nipples.
- Olive oil helps to hydrates and soothes skin and prevent further damage to the nipple.
- Shea butter, tamanu, and aloe keep nipples soft, supple and resilient so your next breastfeeding or pumping will be a breeze.
- Does not need to be washed off before feedings.
- Only high-quality food grade ingredients used and safe for ingestion.
- USDA organic certified
- Non-toxin.
- Vegetarian, not tested on animals, ultra-light and hypoallergenic.
- Made without petroleum, mineral oil, lanolin, Vitamin E, gluten, parabens, phthalates, fragrances, flavors, dyes, or most common allergens.
- Each purchase contributes to educational charity.
- Multiple winning awards as an excellent product.
- Made in the USA.
The Cons
- Poor packaging design: The balm can be a little too soft and can easily leak out if it does not place the jar upright.
- The balm jar is a little tiny for larger finger user.
- Some mother complains that the balm scent reminds them of a boiled peanuts.
My Breast Friend Nipple Cream
My Breast Friend is another great organic nipple salve, which does not need to be wiped off before feeding. It is hypoallergenic and has no harmful chemicals. It does not have lanolin, or preservatives and additives.
The Good Stuff
- Lanolin-free.
- Does not need to be washed off before feedings.
- Made only using natural and organic ingredients.
- Contains no preservatives or additives.
- Used on natural ingredients like organic shea butter, organic coconut oil, vegetable glycerin, organic mango butter, organic calendula extract, Candellia wax, and organic aloe vera.
- Specifically designed to be non-greasy, no mess and easy to apply.
- Protects and heals sore or cracked nipples.
- Safe for mom and baby.
- Hypoallergenic.
The Cons
- The salve texture can be hard when rubbing on sensitive nipples.
- Due to the harder texture, the cream left white bits that you can't rub in thoroughly.
- Poor packaging design as you might over squeeze the amount of cream you need.
Green People Rescue Balm
If you have allergies, psoriasis or eczema, use this! It consists of natural extracts of Calendula, Shea Butter, Sweet Almond, Vitamin E, Hemp Seed Oil, and Sunflower, and they are all organic too! No artificial perfumes or other harsh chemicals. It contains beeswax but is otherwise suitable for vegetarians.
The Good Stuff
- Organic Shea butter nourishes dry skin for mom and baby.
- Soothes sore cracked nipples before and after breastfeeding.
- A pure, organic blend of oils softens the perineum region before birth.
- Fragrance-free and gentle for frequent use – use as often as required.
- Lanolin-free.
- No parabens, methylisothiazolinone, methylchloroisothiazolinone, phthalates, artificial perfumes, petrochemicals and colorants.
- Suitable for those who may be prone to eczema and psoriasis.
The Cons
- Beeswax content may crystallize when exposed to extreme cold.
- Not vegan-friendly. It contains beeswax.
- Expensive compared to other brands
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Cupuacu Mommy Soothing Nursing Balm
It is a very soothing and quick healing cream. This cream contains Cupuacu a good plant based substitute for lanolin. The cream has a very pleasant smell due to this ingredient.
The Good Stuff
- Shea Butter - Deeply moisturizes and repairs skin with vitamins and essential fatty acids.
- Amazonian Cupuacu - Rich in phytosterols that benefit the stressed skin. Helps protect, soften and soothe.
- Passiflora Oil - A superior emollient rich in Vitamin C.
- Does not need to wash off before feeding.
- Use only certified organic ingredients.
- No parabens, methylisothiazolinone, methylchloroisothiazolinone, phthalates, artificial perfumes, petrochemicals and colorants.
- No animal testing.
- Toxic-free.
- No mineral oil.
- Lanolin-free.
The Cons
- Some mothers complain that the cream texture is not consistent from batch-to-batch as some can be more liquid than other which can cause leaking out from the packaging.
Bella B Nipple Nurture Butter
Bella B Nipple Nurture Butter is the best nipple cream if you want a highly efficient and organic one with shea, avocado, mango butter and natural cocoa.
The downside is that this cream has the additive like vitamin C and E which may not be suitable for a newborn or younger baby as these ages babies need only nutrient from breastmilk and no other.
The Good Stuff
- Lanolin-free.
- Made without using any animal by-products.
- Plant-based ingredients are food-grade and 100% safe for mother and baby.
- Free of parabens and artificial preservatives.
- Does not need to wash off before breastfeeding.
- No discernable taste or smell.
The Cons
- It has grainy particles which can be a little annoying when rubbing on sensitive nipples.
- Can easily stain your top or bra.
Best of the Rest
These nipples creams, don’t quite meet all of the ‘best’ criteria mostly because they contained lanolin and other additives and preservatives, but they do recommend by some mothers that use them before and said a few good thing about these creams.
Although these nipple salves do not make it to the 'best' list, but I still think these nipple salves has some good stuff that it's worthwhile to share with you all.
Phillips AVENT Moisturizing Nipple Cream
The Phillips AVENT nipple cream is one of the inexpensive and efficient best nipple creams. If we were to talk about value for money, Phillips AVENT nipple cream is a good fit. It contains coconut oil, aloe vera and medical grade lanolin and hypoallergenic too.
There are no harsh chemicals and does not need to be wiped off before feeding. It has an excellent moisturizing effect. However, the strong smell may be a put-off for some people, though.
The Good Stuff
- Contains coconut oil and aloe vera, both natural ingredients, to hydrate the skin and soften nipples.
- Does not need to be washed off before feedings.
The Cons
- Not lanolin-free.
Mama Mio Keep Calm Nipple Balm
With its mild, pleasant smell, this is the best nipple cream for quick healing. It is 100% organic with no harsh chemicals. It contains medical grade Lanolin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Olus Oil, Calendula Officinalis, and Cocos Nucifera Oil. It can also be used as a moisturizer for dry areas of arms.
The Good Stuff
- Does not need to be washed off before feedings.
- Each nipple cream purchased, a portion will be donated to charity.
- No animal testing.
- Dermatology tested.
- Made in the USA.
The Cons
- Not lanolin-free.
Mustela Nursing Comfort Balm
The Mustela Nursing Comfort Balm is expensive but effective. It has a lot of preservatives and additives, so the chances of these passing to the baby are high. Skin Deep rating is putting this balm at risk.
The Good Stuff
- Hypoallergenic and specially formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
- Product tested under dermatological and pediatric control.
- Shea butter and honey extract soften and moisturize the skin.
- Uses natural ingredients.
- Avocado peptides: soothe the skin and reduce its reactivity.
- Shea butter and oligo-elements: leave the skin more supple and resistant.
- Elastoregulator® and lupeol: activate the production of the fibers that strengthen the skin.
The Cons
- Too many preservatives and additives which are dangerous for mother and baby.
- Skin Deep Hazard Rating: 2/10 - Concerns: Peg-45/ dodecyl glycol copolymer, sorbic acid, sodium hydroxide, glycerin, citric acid, ceresin, panthenol, stearalkonium hectorite, butylene glycol, propylene carbonate tocopherol, isodecyl neopentanoate
Our Favorite
From all the best nipple creams, I pick the Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter as my most favorite. The Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter is lanolin free and does not need to wash off before nursing or pumping and vegan too!
This hospital grade nipple cream as according to Skin Deep Hazard Rating has 0/10 rating which means this salve is very safe for use on mother and even safe to be ingested by baby while nursing. Also, it’s organically certified by the Oregon Tilth.
Our alternative pick is the Motherlove Nipple Cream. The Motherlove Nipple Cream has almost similar features like the Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter, but the main different is that it uses beeswax as the softening agent. Thus, it’s not vegan-friendly. But still, the Motherlove Nipple Cream is an excellent companion for breastfeeding and pumping mothers.
So there you have it. I have listed the majority of the best nipple creams that currently available in the market. If you feel that I left out any of the good stuff, do let me know, and I will cover them in my next update. Let me know which one is your favorite nipple cream too!
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