Ashley Georgakopoulos, IBCLC, and Motif Medical Lactation Director, tells Verywell Family nipple creams should include clean, organic, and food-grade ingredients as your little one will likely ingest small portions of it. We carefully considered ingredients, application, portability, and value when reviewing products. Here are the best balms and creams for sore and irritated nipples to help you survive postpartum recovery and breastfeeding. If cracked nipples become an issue, the coconut oil lowers the yeast levels on the skin, reducing the risk for thrush, which can become quite painful and disruptive to a good feeding routine.  Price at time of publication: $15 for 1.75 ounce The unscented, plant-based formulation is not just for nipples; many women use it on chapped lips, dry skin, as a pump lubricant, and more. Reviewers love this product and find a little goes a long way, so the jar will last for a while and it can even be used as a diaper cream for tender baby butts. Since it is oil-based, some note it may stain bras or clothing that it comes in contact with.  Price at time of publication: $12 for 1 ounce In cold temps, the product becomes extremely thick and will need to be squeezed out and rubbed between two fingers to warm it. In warm temperatures, the product can become runny and gooey, so be sure to store it at room temperature with the cap on. If mom is avoiding animal-based products, you’ll want to skip lanolin-based creams. Price at time of publication: $8 for 1.41 ounce Safe for mom and baby, you don’t have to worry about wiping it off before feeding your little one. Made of a natural ingredient blend, the mess-free texture makes application a breeze. Price at time of publication: $19 for 2 ounces Many women find the soft cream much easier to apply than other products and appreciate the tube packaging rather than a tub since it’s a cinch to squeeze out the right amount. Price at time of publication: $10 for 2 ounces Reviewers note that the olive oil and coconut-based oil formula can stain clothing or bras, so best to use a washable or disposable nursing pad with this balm.  Price at time of publication: $12 for 1 ounce
Price at time of publication: $13 for 2 ounces The plant-based, lanolin-free, vegan, and gluten-free formulation is packaged in zero waste food grade jars that are easily recyclable or reusable. Price at time of publication: $23 for 2 ounces It is also helpful to ensure that you are choosing a product with antifungal properties as well like coconut oil, she says. Ashley Georgakopoulos says that these ingredients can help heal painful cracked skin on and around your nipple to prevent infections.

Portability

Since nursing and the pain related to it can happen while you’re on the go, Georgakopoulos recommends finding a nipple cream that’s easy to tote around. Whether you’re nursing at home or while running errands, having a travel-friendly nipple cream will ensure that you always have relief at your fingertips. 

Skin Nourishing

For dry, cracked, and irritated nipples, highly nourishing ingredients are important. Ingredients such as calendula, extra virgin olive oil, and vitamin E help to restore the skin’s moisture and ease nursing-related irritation.

Consistency

Depending on your personal preferences, choosing a consistency that won’t stain your clothes while also feeling good on your skin is essential. From balms and butters to creams and ointments, there is an option to suit your preference. Also ensuring that the product easily glides onto your skin while also acting as a lubricant and skin barrier will help with pain while nursing and pumping.

Why Trust Verywell Family?

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year old daughter. When she used nipple cream, she stuck with lanolin products, mostly because she didn’t know how many other great products existed. She was always frustrated that it stained her clothes and still has a favorite nightgown with two oddly placed stains. If you’re having problems breastfeeding, Georgakopoulos says an IBCLC “can help navigate issues or practices that may be contributing to sore, chafed nipples, as well as assist in choosing the right product for your needs as they change.”