Over-the-Counter

• Benzoyl peroxide and salicyclic acid are safe over-the-counter acne medications available as creams or facial cleansers.
  
  

Oral Treatments

• According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the oral antibiotic tetracycline is excreted in small amounts to the breast milk, but the calcium limits its absorption. It is deemed compatible with breast feeding, but other oral medications, such as erythromycin, are recommended for long-term use.
  
  

Topical Treatments

• Tretinoin, adapalene and azelaic, when used as topical treatments, are unabsorbed into the mother's milk and are deemed compatible.
  
  

Warning

• Tretinoin, as an oral antibiotic, and isotretinoin, commonly found in Accutane, are both deemed hazardous for breast-feeding mothers and their babies.
  
  

Other Alternatives

• Consider a natural acne treatment like tea tree oil. Also, be sure to wash with a mild facial cleanser, exfoliate, and wear oil-free products to avoid further irritation.