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Nipple Creams, Belly Oils & More: Self-Care Staples for New Mums
- Khizra khalid
- 6 hours ago
- 14 min read
Discover the best self-care staples for new mums, from nourishing nipple creams to hydrating belly oils. Gentle, effective products to support recovery, comfort, and confidence.
Becoming a new mum is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and plenty of changes—especially for your body. Taking care of yourself during this time isn’t just about feeling pampered; it’s about real comfort and recovery. That’s where the right self-care staples make all the difference.
From soothing nipple creams to deeply hydrating belly oils, these products are designed to support you through pregnancy and beyond. They’re made with mums in mind—safe, gentle, and effective at easing the discomforts that come with this beautiful but demanding season.
Self-care doesn’t need to be elaborate. Sometimes it’s as simple as applying a cream that helps your skin feel nourished, or taking five quiet minutes with a soothing soak. These little rituals add up, helping you feel more like yourself.
Below you’ll find our carefully chosen picks—mum-approved products that combine comfort with care. Whether you’re preparing for birth or navigating postpartum recovery, these essentials will support your body while giving you small, nurturing moments of calm.
Why Self-Care Staples Matter for New Mums
Support healing and comfort: Postpartum recovery can bring soreness, dryness, or skin sensitivity. Self-care staples ease discomfort and speed healing.
Boost skin health: Stretch mark creams, belly oils, and body butters nourish and hydrate skin as it adapts to pregnancy and recovery.
Encourage small moments of calm: Even quick routines, like applying a balm or lighting a calming candle, create mindful pauses in a busy day.
Safe for mums and babies: Products formulated with gentle, natural ingredients provide peace of mind during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Everyday Essentials That Make a Difference
Nipple creams for comfort: Provide relief for soreness or dryness, keeping breastfeeding more manageable.
Belly oils and butters: Hydrate skin, helping it stay supple while reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
Postnatal recovery soaks: Ease muscle tension and support healing after childbirth.
Gift sets for mums: A thoughtful way to add extra care, whether from a loved one or as a treat to yourself.
Pregnancy brings so many changes, and your skin deserves some extra love along the way. The My Expert Midwife Fantastic Skin Elastic cream is specially designed to support stretched skin before and after birth. It’s made with high-quality ingredients that nourish deeply, helping you feel more comfortable as your body adapts. At £9.99, it’s a thoughtful staple for both pregnancy and postnatal care.
Features:
Helps improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks
Gentle, nourishing formula safe for pregnancy and postpartum use
Infused with natural oils for hydration and suppleness
Can also support scar recovery and overall skin resilience
My Expert Midwife Fantastic Skin Elastic cream offers mums a blend of comfort and care, designed to support skin that’s working hard to accommodate change. Its formula focuses on hydration and elasticity, two key needs during pregnancy as skin stretches. With consistent use, it helps maintain suppleness, making you feel more confident in your body’s changes.
Made with natural oils, this cream deeply moisturises without feeling greasy. The light texture absorbs easily, leaving behind smooth and nourished skin. It’s suitable for daily use, which makes it easy to add to your self-care routine. Whether morning or night, a small amount goes a long way in helping your skin feel cared for.
Beyond pregnancy, this cream continues to be a supportive product in the postnatal period. It can aid in softening scars and helping skin recover its strength. The elasticising formula was created with new mums in mind, ensuring both comfort and safety during this delicate stage.
Priced affordably, it makes a practical addition to any mum-to-be’s skincare kit. It’s not just about appearance, but also about feeling good in your skin. With its focus on nourishment and elasticity, the Fantastic Skin Elastic cream is a small luxury that delivers big benefits.
Preparing for labour can feel daunting, but the right products can make a real difference. Peri Prep Your Bits by My Expert Midwife is a gentle massage oil designed to support the perineum in late pregnancy. At £9.66, it offers an affordable way to prepare your body for birth and recovery. With carefully chosen natural ingredients, it’s crafted to bring mums comfort and reassurance.
Features:
Specially formulated for perineal massage before labour
Helps reduce the risk of tearing and the need for an episiotomy
Made with natural, safe oils suitable for pregnancy use
Supports perineal recovery in the postnatal stage
This massage oil is designed to help mums feel more in control as they prepare for childbirth. Gently softening and conditioning the perineal area can increase comfort during labour. Regular use in the final weeks of pregnancy helps support skin elasticity, which may reduce the likelihood of tears.
Made with natural oils, the formula is both safe and effective for sensitive areas. It absorbs smoothly, without irritation, allowing for a gentle massage experience. Its subtle texture provides comfort without heaviness, making it easy to incorporate into a birth-preparation routine.
The benefits of Peri Prep Your Bits extend into the postnatal stage as well. It continues to support recovery, soothing and conditioning delicate skin after birth. This dual purpose makes it a valuable product both before and after delivery.
At under £10, it’s a small but meaningful investment in your comfort. Preparing your body for birth can feel overwhelming, but products like this bring a sense of reassurance. With natural support, you can step into labour feeling a little more ready and confident.
Keeping your skin nourished is one of the kindest things you can do during pregnancy. Burt’s Bees Body Oil is enriched with vitamin E, sweet almond oil, and lemon oil to care for stretching skin. At £10.50, it’s a soothing and natural choice for mums-to-be who want to keep their skin soft and comforted. Its lightweight formula makes it a joy to use every day.
Features:
Infused with vitamin E, sweet almond oil, and lemon oil
Helps improve skin elasticity and reduce stretch marks appearance
Lightweight and fast-absorbing texture
100% natural origin ingredients
This body oil is crafted to nourish skin through the demands of pregnancy. The blend of natural oils helps hydrate deeply, while vitamin E provides extra support for skin resilience. Over time, it works to improve elasticity, helping to ease the strain of stretching skin.
The formula is gentle and non-greasy, so it’s easy to massage in without leaving a sticky residue. It absorbs quickly, making it suitable for use morning or night. You can layer it under moisturisers or use it on its own for a silky finish.
Pregnancy can sometimes leave skin feeling tight or uncomfortable, and this oil helps soothe those sensations. The refreshing notes of lemon oil bring a light touch of calm, making application feel more like a ritual than a routine. It’s a small but impactful way to add comfort to your day.
At just over £10, this is an accessible product that delivers natural care when it’s needed most. With its nourishing ingredients and trusted Burt’s Bees quality, it’s a thoughtful addition to any pregnancy skincare routine.
When it comes to caring for scars and stretch marks, Bio-Oil is one of the most recognised names worldwide. This skincare oil is designed to help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, stretch marks, and scars. Priced at £10.00 for 125ml, it’s a staple in many mums’ self-care routines both during and after pregnancy. Its reputation is built on years of proven results.
Features:
Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks
Lightweight, non-greasy oil formula
Infused with vitamins A & E plus natural plant extracts
Suitable for sensitive skin and everyday use
This oil is formulated with a unique blend of vitamins and plant extracts, suspended in a light and non-greasy base. Vitamin A supports skin renewal, while vitamin E provides antioxidant protection and hydration. Together, they help improve skin texture and tone over time.
The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft but never oily. It’s suitable for daily use, whether you’re focusing on pregnancy stretch marks, postnatal scars, or uneven skin tone. Gentle yet effective, it fits easily into a self-care routine.
Many mums value Bio-Oil for its versatility. It can be used on the belly, thighs, breasts, or anywhere that needs extra care. Beyond stretch marks, it’s also helpful for supporting scar healing, making it a reliable multi-purpose product.
At just £10, it’s an affordable product that continues to be trusted by mums worldwide. With consistent use, it offers visible improvements while also making skin feel pampered and cared for. A true staple for pregnancy and beyond.
For mums-to-be looking for a gentle and nourishing belly butter, Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter is a lovely choice. At £6.50, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested, making it safe for sensitive skin during pregnancy. Designed to deeply hydrate, it helps keep stretching skin soft and supple. It’s a comforting addition to your daily care routine.
Features:
Rich belly butter designed for pregnancy
Helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks
Vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested
Provides deep hydration and nourishment
This Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter is packed with skin-loving ingredients that help support skin elasticity. Its creamy texture makes it easy to massage into the belly, hips, and thighs, giving those areas extra care as they stretch and grow. Daily use helps maintain skin’s comfort and softness.
Unlike some heavy butters, the formula feels rich but not overly greasy. It absorbs well, leaving behind a soft, smooth finish that feels protective but not sticky. For many mums, it becomes a little ritual of self-care before bed or in the morning.
Mama Mio has developed this product specifically with pregnancy in mind, so it avoids harsh ingredients and focuses on nourishment. The formula’s gentleness is perfect for sensitive skin, which is often a concern during pregnancy.
At an affordable £6.50, it’s a great way to treat yourself to a trusted, pregnancy-safe product. The combination of rich hydration and mindful formulation makes it a must-have in your maternity skincare kit.
Pregnancy and early motherhood can feel overwhelming, but sometimes the best comfort comes from shared wisdom. The Mum To Mum Pass It On Gift Book is filled with top tips, heartfelt advice, and encouragement from other mums. At £9.55, it’s a thoughtful gift that goes beyond material items, offering reassurance and community in book form.
Features:
Collection of tips and advice from real mums
Encouraging and supportive tone
Perfect as a gift for mums-to-be or new mums
Compact and easy-to-read format
This Mum To Mum Pass It On Gift Book is designed to feel like a friend’s voice on the page, sharing practical advice and emotional support. The tips inside cover everything from pregnancy comfort to life with a newborn. For mums navigating new challenges, it offers both guidance and reassurance.
Its compact size makes it easy to dip into whenever a boost is needed. The writing is simple, heartfelt, and relatable, so it never feels overwhelming. It’s the kind of book you can return to time and again for comfort.
As a gift, it carries more than just words—it’s a gesture of care and solidarity. Many mums treasure it as a reminder that they’re not alone in their journey, and that others have walked this path before.
At just £9.55, it’s a meaningful and affordable gift. Whether bought for yourself or passed on to another mum, it serves as a companion during one of the most transformative times of life.
Postnatal recovery takes time, and supporting your body with the right nutrients can make a real difference. Pregnacare for New Mums is designed to provide essential vitamins and minerals after childbirth. At £8.99, it’s an affordable way to support energy levels, skin, hair, and overall wellbeing during the early months of motherhood.
Features:
Postnatal supplement tailored for new mums
Supports energy, hair, skin, and nail health
Provides key vitamins and minerals
Designed for use after pregnancy and birth
This supplement is formulated with the specific needs of new mums in mind. It includes nutrients such as B vitamins, which help combat tiredness, along with minerals that contribute to overall recovery. It’s a practical way to give your body gentle support.
For many mums, the early weeks can feel exhausting, and it’s easy to forget self-care. Taking a supplement like Pregnacare can help cover nutritional gaps, especially when meal times are rushed or irregular. It’s a simple addition to your daily routine.
Beyond energy, it also focuses on skin, hair, and nail health, which can be affected after pregnancy. Supporting these areas helps mums feel more like themselves again, which is an important part of recovery.
At £8.99, it’s an accessible option for postnatal care. While it doesn’t replace a balanced diet, it can be a helpful companion for new mums adjusting to life after birth.
Recovery after birth requires gentle care, and My Expert Midwife Soak for Bits offers just that. At £24.00, this postpartum bath soak blends Epsom salts with essential oils to provide soothing relief. It’s safe to use after both vaginal birth and C-section, making it a thoughtful choice for postnatal recovery.
Features:
Postnatal bath soak with Epsom salts and oils
Helps soothe perineal soreness and aching muscles
Suitable after vaginal or C-section recovery
Large 750g size for multiple uses
The My Expert Midwife Soak for Bits is designed to gently cleanse and soothe the perineum after birth. Epsom salts work to ease tension and discomfort, while essential oils bring a calming aroma to the experience. It’s a small act of self-care that feels restorative during recovery.
Bath time becomes more than just hygiene—it’s a chance to slow down, relax, and give your body the care it needs. This soak helps to ease the aches that can follow labour, making recovery more comfortable.
Unlike harsh bath products, this soak is developed specifically for new mums. It’s gentle on sensitive skin, safe to use postnatally, and easy to add into your bath routine without fuss.
Though priced at £24.00, the 750g bag offers multiple uses, making it a worthwhile investment in recovery. It’s a blend of practicality and self-care that many mums find essential during their postnatal journey.
When self-care feels like a luxury, the Bee Lovely Nourishing Collection makes it simple and indulgent. At £27.00, this set includes hand cream, shower gel, body lotion, and an all-over balm. It’s a thoughtful gift for mums who want natural, gentle products that nurture skin and senses.
Features:
Gift set with hand cream, shower gel, body lotion & balm
Made with natural, ethically sourced ingredients
Gentle and nourishing for everyday use
Beautifully packaged for gifting
This Bee Lovely Nourishing Collection is designed to make daily routines feel soothing rather than rushed. The shower gel cleanses gently, while the body lotion and balm restore moisture to tired skin. The hand cream offers quick hydration, perfect for busy mums always on the go.
Neal’s Yard Remedies is known for using high-quality, ethical ingredients. With natural honey and essential oils, the products smell beautiful while staying kind to skin. It’s a small way to introduce calm moments into a hectic day.
The products are versatile and easy to incorporate into everyday life. A quick application of lotion after a shower or balm for dry patches becomes an act of self-care that feels grounding and restorative.
At £27.00, it’s a complete set that works both as a treat for yourself or a thoughtful present for a new mum. The collection feels both practical and indulgent—exactly what busy mums deserve.
Every mum deserves a little time to relax, and the Nurture by Nature Relax & Calm Pamper Set offers just that. Priced at £25.99, this spa-style gift box includes lavender mist, bath salts, candles, and more. It’s designed to bring a sense of calm into even the busiest routines.
Features:
Pamper gift set with bath salts, candle, and lavender mist
Promotes deep relaxation and stress relief
Beautifully presented for gifting
Ideal for new mums or as a self-care treat
The soothing scents of lavender and natural oils create a spa-like atmosphere at home. The bath salts ease tired muscles, while the calming mist and candle set the tone for rest. Nurture by Nature Relax & Calm Pamper Set transforms a few minutes of downtime into something restorative.
Self-care can be hard to prioritise, especially for new mums. This set makes it easier by gathering everything needed for relaxation in one box. It’s a thoughtful way to encourage moments of calm and quiet.
Each item is gentle, enjoyable, and easy to use. Whether it’s adding salts to a quick bath or spritzing the lavender mist before bed, these small rituals make a big difference in wellbeing.
At £25.99, the set feels both special and affordable. It’s a ready-made gift that helps new mums reconnect with themselves, even in the middle of busy days.
Breastfeeding can be a beautiful journey, but it often comes with sore or cracked nipples. The Medela Purelan Nipple Cream, priced at £10.99, offers fast relief with a gentle, natural formula. Safe for both mum and baby, it’s a breastfeeding essential every mum will appreciate.
Features:
Natural, medical-grade lanolin
Fast relief for sore, cracked nipples
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
Safe for breastfeeding with no need to remove before feeding
The Medela Purelan Nipple Cream is specially formulated to ease discomfort quickly while keeping skin hydrated and protected. It provides a soothing barrier that locks in moisture, helping skin heal faster and stay soft during feeding.
Purelan’s natural lanolin is gentle enough for sensitive skin and safe for babies. Because it doesn’t need to be removed before nursing, it takes away the worry of interruptions or extra steps during feeding.
The texture is rich yet easy to apply, making it a simple part of daily breastfeeding routines. It can also be used on other dry areas like lips, elbows, or cuticles, offering multi-purpose care.
At £10.99, this cream is an affordable but essential investment. It ensures that breastfeeding feels less painful and more nurturing for both mum and baby.
For a soothing and budget-friendly option, the Mama Mio Keep Calm Nipple Balm is a great choice. At just £5.00, it’s designed to protect and relieve soreness while being completely safe for breastfeeding. It’s a gentle, vegan formula that mums can rely on.
Features:
Vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested
Protects against dryness and soreness
Safe to use during breastfeeding
Affordable and effective
Mama Mio Keep Calm Nipple Balm provides lightweight but effective protection for delicate skin. It helps prevent dryness and cracking, making breastfeeding a more comfortable experience from the very start.
With a smooth texture, it glides on easily without leaving stickiness behind. It feels gentle and natural, making it perfect for sensitive skin that needs extra care.
Because it’s vegan and cruelty-free, it gives peace of mind to mums who want ethical products. It’s a simple, safe choice that supports both comfort and values.
At just £5.00, it’s a fantastic everyday essential. This balm proves that effective self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, making it an easy addition to any new mum’s routine.
Breastfeeding can sometimes cause cracked, sore nipples, and that’s where My Expert Midwife No Harm Nipple Balm steps in. At £17.99, this gentle, medical-grade balm offers quick relief and lasting protection. It’s a trusted choice designed with mums and babies in mind.
Features:
100% natural, medical-grade lanolin
Fast-acting relief for soreness
Odourless and tasteless for safe feeding
Moisturising and protective
My Expert Midwife No Harm Nipple Balm works by forming a gentle barrier that keeps skin soft and helps heal cracked areas faster. It locks in essential moisture, reducing dryness while soothing discomfort effectively.
Because it’s odourless and tasteless, babies won’t notice a thing. Mums can use it confidently before feeding without worrying about washing it off, which makes routines simpler.
The formula is rich but not greasy, so it feels natural on the skin. It’s a high-quality option designed to give comfort where it’s most needed, even in the early days of nursing.
At £17.99, this balm is slightly more premium, but it delivers excellent results. For mums seeking reliable relief, it’s worth every penny for comfort and peace of mind.
Little Luxuries That Make a Big Difference
Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant — it’s often the little things, like a soothing balm or calming bath soak, that bring the most comfort.
These thoughtful products are designed to make life easier for mums, while also helping them feel cared for during such a demanding season.
Conclusion
Motherhood can be overwhelming, but these self-care essentials bring small moments of relief and comfort. Investing in gentle, nurturing products makes it easier for new mums to care for themselves while caring for their little ones.
Disclaimer: This content contains affiliate links.
Author: First Time Mums UK
Instagram: @firsttimemumsuk
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