So, Is Breast Milk Really A Skincare Superstar? We Asked A Dermatologist

It's no secret that breast milk is powerful. It has many incredible benefits that keep babies healthy, including reducing the risk of asthma, SIDS, and Type 1 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But did you know that a popular benefit of breast milk has nothing to do with breastfeeding a child or even drinking the substance? Halsey has recently brought breast milk as a form of skincare back into the beauty spotlight.

In an interview with Nylon, the singer states she "figured out that breast milk is the best skincare ingredient ever because it's so full of antioxidants and good fats and stuff that speed up the healing process." Breast milk skincare is becoming increasingly popular in the beauty space, but is it really a skincare superstar? In an exclusive chat with Glam, Dr. Noor Hanif Said, a board-certified dermatologist, member of the Royal College of Physicians, and medical director of Renaissance Dermatology with over 20 years of experience, explains that breast milk has some great skincare benefits as it "contains antibodies, vitamins, and fats, which can have moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects."

Breast milk has moisturizing properties that can help you maintain a healthier, happier skin barrier. According to Dr. Noor Hanif Said, the fats and vitamins in breast milk are the reason it is excellent at keeping the skin plump and hydrated. "The fats allow it to act as a great natural moisturizer, which can soothe dry skin," Dr. Hanif exclusively tells Glam. It not only moisturizes at the surface level but also sinks deeper into the skin for lasting hydration.

The vitamins in breast milk also help reduce dry, flaky skin by increasing the cell turnover rate. Vitamins A and E are both naturally prominent in breast milk. Increasing the cell turnover rate with these vitamins will help dead skin cells flake off faster, leaving your face looking more hydrated and supple. The vitamins and fat combined in breastmilk make for ultimate healing and moisture for the top layers of your face.

The harsh elements that our skin faces every day create a need for a skincare routine that features anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredients. Luckily, breast milk has a mixture of both. Dr. Noor Hanif Said exclusively tells Glam that "breast milk contains cytokines and other anti-inflammatory substances which can soothe skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis."  Conditions that cause redness and swelling may also be improved with the use of breast milk on the skin.

In the search for a cure for acne, many times people come across products containing breast milk to soothe the burning, redness, and swelling that comes with breakouts. They often see benefits as the vitamins in breast milk cause a faster cell turnover rate and contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, a 2019 study published in Nutrients explained that breast milk is beneficial in wound healing and can soothe irritated skin that can occur around the nipples from breastfeeding.

We are always looking for new ways to reverse the hands of time when it comes to our skin. Free-floating radicals in our everyday environment that occur due to sun exposure and pollution are constantly causing damage to our skin that can cause premature aging. Dr. Noor Hanif Said exclusively explains to us that the antioxidants in breast milk "can neutralize free radicals and reduce their effect on the skin and [help] to retain its youthfulness." 

According to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, breast milk contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can reduce the oxidative stress that occurs from free radicals. Vitamin C is a common ingredient in anti-aging serums and creams, as its properties can help reduce inflammation, dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, according to Harvard Health Publishing. The effects of vitamin C and other antioxidants found in breast milk can help keep your skin looking smooth and fresh.

Breast milk has overall skin protection and care benefits that many other products cannot combine to recreate. "Antibodies and other immune-boosting properties can help fight off skin infections by helping to protect the skin," Dr. Noor Hanif Said exclusively tells Glam. Daily breast milk on your skin can prevent you from developing or worsening skin conditions. Due to its gentle, soothing nature, it is safe for all skin types, making it a great everyday choice in a serum or all-natural form for those with sensitive skin types.

Of course, breast milk should not be used as a replacement for washing your face or as an antiseptic, but it may be a helpful addition to your usual skincare routine if you're looking for a home remedy that improves the overall condition of your skin. Using breast milk in addition to your daily skin cleansing ritual may potentially aid in healing, clearing acne, moisturizing dry skin, and preventing and reversing signs of aging.