Science of Skin Absorption

Science of Skin Absorption

Postpartum skin can undergo significant changes, leading many mothers to use moisturizers for relief from dryness, irritation, or stretch marks. Synthetic moisturizers, although providing short-term hydration, often contain a mix of ingredients such as mineral oils, silicones, and parabens that can be absorbed into the skin. There are concerns regarding how these chemicals might affect the baby when passed through skin contact, breastfeeding, or the mother’s systemic absorption.

Synthetic Moisturizers and Skin Absorption in Postpartum Mothers:

Ingredient Penetration: Synthetic moisturizers often contain occlusive agents (e.g., mineral oils) that create a barrier on the skin to trap moisture. However, many contain small molecule compounds that can penetrate deeper layers of the skin. Substances like parabens (preservatives), phthalates (used in fragrances), and synthetic chemicals used in many skincare products may be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Potential Systemic Absorption: There is growing concern that these absorbed substances could be transmitted to infants during breastfeeding. Even though skin absorption rates are generally low, prolonged use of products containing synthetic chemicals could potentially increase the amount transferred through breast milk.

Impact on Infants: Some studies indicate that parabens, which are often found in moisturizers, can act as endocrine disruptors, affecting hormone levels in both mothers and infants ([source](https://www.termedia.pl/Journal/-127/pdf-46099-10?filename=PP-00346.pdf)). Moreover, skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding can directly expose newborns to these substances via transfer from the mother’s skin to the infant’s delicate skin.

Concerns Related to Chemical Transfer Through Breastfeeding:

Lipid-Soluble Chemicals: Synthetic ingredients like parabens and certain fragrance components are lipid-soluble, meaning they can accumulate in the mother’s fatty tissues. Since breast milk is rich in fats, these substances can be transferred to the baby during nursing. Infants are particularly vulnerable due to their developing endocrine and immune systems, which are more susceptible to disruption.

Long-Term Impacts: Regular use of synthetic moisturizers that contain hormone-mimicking chemicals (e.g., phthalates and parabens) could potentially affect an infant’s growth and development. One study suggests that prolonged exposure to synthetic chemicals through maternal use of skincare products may lead to developmental issues in infants ([source](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2011.01594.x)).

Recommendations for Postpartum Skin Care:

Opt for Natural Alternatives: Postpartum mothers are encouraged to use natural moisturizers like virgin coconut oil or shea butter, which are less likely to contain harmful chemicals and can provide deep, lasting hydration without the risk of chemical absorption. These natural alternatives offer the benefits of skin nourishment and repair without the risk of endocrine disruption.

Fragrance-Free and Hypoallergenic Products: Avoiding synthetic fragrances and opting for hypoallergenic skincare products is another crucial step to protect both the mother and baby. Fragrance compounds often contain phthalates, which are not only absorbed by the mother’s skin but can also be passed to the infant through breastfeeding.

Key Scientific Insights:

Studies on Paraben Absorption: Research has shown that parabens can be detected in urine samples of breastfeeding infants whose mothers used skincare products containing these chemicals ([source](https://nnasa.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/SOUTH-AFRICAN-NEONATAL-SKIN-CARE-GUIDELINES-Back-COVER-pdf.pdf)).

Neonatal Skin Vulnerability: The skin of newborns is highly permeable, making them more vulnerable to substances transferred from the mother's skin during breastfeeding or contact ([source](https://soapoilsandherbs.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Skin_Care_Creams_Formulation_and_Use-1.pdf))