Can I get Botox while breastfeeding?

Written By Rachel Skybetter

One of the most common questions I get as an IBCLC is: “Can I get Botox while breastfeeding?”

The short answer: Technically, yes.
The long answer: it’s a bit more nuanced than that.

Let’s break it down using what we know from research, breastfeeding safety resources, and the limited — but reassuring — data we have.

What the Evidence Shows

Botox is categorized as L3: Limited Data, Presumed Compatible: In Hale’s Medications & Mothers’ Milk, Botox and related purified botulinum A toxins fall under L3, which means we don’t have endless studies, but the available data suggests they are likely compatible with breastfeeding.

Botox molecules are huge and unlikely to pass into breastmilk: Botox is a large, heavy protein — too big to easily enter the bloodstream, let alone be transferred into milk in meaningful quantities. When injected correctly into the muscle, studies show that levels found in breastmilk are extremely low or virtually undetectable.

There’s no need to pump and dump: Good news. There is no evidence supporting the idea that breastfeeding parents need to pump and dump after receiving cosmetic neurotoxins like Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, or Daxxify. Even waiting a few hours before feeding out of caution is more than enough, though not required.

…But?

There is very limited research overall. Only a handful of studies have examined this topic, and one of the most recent looked at the milk of just four mothers who received facial Botox. While findings were reassuring, such small sample sizes mean we can’t make sweeping, definitive statements.

You may struggle to find an injector who’s comfortable doing it. Even though the science suggests low risk, many injectors are understandably cautious. Providers take on the liability, and some won’t do it for breastfeeding clients, no matter how small the risk. This does not mean you should lie to your injector about breastfeeding. Please don’t do that.

Be aware of (very unlikely) infant symptoms: If you get Botox while breastfeeding, InfantRisk recommends simply watching for these highly uncommon red flags:

  • Unusual fatigue

  • Muscle weakness or floppiness

  • Droopy eyelids

  • Difficulty feeding or swallowing

These reactions are described out of extreme caution. They have not been documented in breastfed infants exposed to typical cosmetic Botox doses.

So, Should You Get Botox While Breastfeeding?

Ultimately, it comes down to your comfort level and the policies of the injector you work with.

Here’s the bottom line:

  • Research is limited, but reassuring

  • Botox is unlikely to transfer into milk in meaningful amounts

  • There’s no need to pump and dump

  • Most breastfeeding parents who choose to get Botox do so without issues

  • Your provider may or may not be willing to treat you

As a lactation consultant and personal fan of neurotoxins, I support parents in making informed choices, not fear-based ones. For many breastfeeding moms, Botox can be part of their postpartum self-care plan. For others, waiting until after weaning feels best. I’ll support you no matter what!

Sources

  • InfantRisk Center. (2023 & 2025). Botox injections and breastfeeding.

  • Hale, T. W., & Rowe, H. E. (2024). Botulinum toxin A (Botox) monograph. In Hale’s Medications & Mothers’ Milk, Springer Publishing.

Rachel Skybetter
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