From LLLI http://www.llli.org/FAQ/hair.html:

Personal grooming while breastfeeding: What are the effects of hair coloring
and perms, tanning beds and nipple piercing?

According to the BREASTFEEDING ANSWER BOOK, published by La Leche League
International, no evidence exists that the nursing mother's use of hair-care
products, such as hair dyes and permanents, has any effect on her
breastfeeding baby. When a mother uses hair-care products, some of the
chemicals will be absorbed through her skin. If her scalp is healthy and
intact, less will be absorbed than if the skin on her scalp is scratched or
abraded. 

The BREASTFEEDING ANSWER BOOK, 3rd revised edition, states on page 449, "No
evidence exists that the nursing mother's use of tanning beds has any effect
on her breastfed baby."

It is important to limit exposure so that burning is avoided. Some mothers
have reported getting burnt nipples and breasts when using tanning beds.
This is extremely painful so be sure to cover your nipples and breasts and
use caution. If any vitamins or medications are suggested to enhance the
tanning, be sure to check with your health care provider before taking them

There is no evidence that nipple piercing has any effect on breastfeeding.
For more information, consult the following article:

Nipple Piercing: Is It Compatible with Breastfeeding? LEAVEN, June-July
1999, pp. 64-65 http://www.llli.org/llleaderweb/LV/LVJunJul99p64.html

More information on personal choices and breastfeeding can be found on our
resource page about lifestyle choices
http://www.llli.org/NB/NBlifestyle.html


Ingrid 

La Leche League Canada Leader
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant

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