Pregnancy-Safe Hair Treatments: What's Allowed And What's Not (2024)

Pregnancy is a time when women are extra cautious about their health and the products they use. The same goes for hair treatments and products, as many contain potentially harmful chemicals. While some treatments are generally considered safe, it's always a good idea to take extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby. So, what hair treatments are safe during pregnancy?

Hair colouring/dyeing

Hair colouring or dyeing is a common concern for pregnant women, as it involves applying chemicals to the hair and scalp. While there is limited scientific evidence on the safety of hair dye during pregnancy, most experts deem it safe to colour your hair while pregnant. According to the American Pregnancy Association, hair dyes are not toxic to your baby if used correctly. This is because your scalp absorbs a minimal amount of these chemicals, so only negligible amounts enter the bloodstream and even less would reach your baby, if any.

However, hair dyes do contain potentially toxic chemicals, including paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which is found in most permanent and semi-permanent dyes. Therefore, it is recommended to take certain precautions when colouring your hair during pregnancy:

• Wait until the second trimester: Your baby's body structure and organ systems begin to form during the first trimester, so it is best to avoid any potential risks during this crucial period.
• Consult a dermatologist: If you have any skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist before colouring your hair, as these conditions may cause small lacerations on your scalp, increasing the risk of chemical absorption.
• Ensure good ventilation: Hair dye has a strong smell, which can be unpleasant and overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with morning sickness or an increased sense of smell during pregnancy. Make sure the room is well-ventilated during the process.
• Wear gloves: This is generally recommended when handling hair dye, but it is even more important during pregnancy as your skin may be more sensitive to irritation.
• Choose gentle hair colours: Opt for hair dyes that are paraben-, phthalate- and oxybenzone-free. You may also consider a dye that doesn't contain ammonia or peroxide, or choose a vegetable-based dye.
• Consider highlights: If you are concerned about the risks of hair dye, highlights, lowlights, or balayage are safer alternatives as they do not involve putting hair dye directly on your scalp.
• Use American-made hair colour: In the United States, the number of metals allowed in personal care products is regulated. Hair treatments made elsewhere may contain dangerous substances, such as lead, cadmium, nickel, arsenic, or mercury.

Overall, while hair colouring during pregnancy is generally considered safe, it is always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.

Curling

If you decide to get a perm during pregnancy, there are several precautions you should take to minimise any potential risks. Firstly, ensure that the procedure is done in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling too many chemicals. Secondly, follow the directions on the package and do not leave the chemicals on your hair for longer than indicated. Rinse your scalp thoroughly with water after the treatment and wear gloves during the application process. It is also a good idea to do a patch test for allergic reactions before getting the perm.

In addition, it's important to keep in mind that pregnancy can naturally change your hair's texture. Your hair may react differently to a perm during pregnancy, so you may want to consult a doctor or consider waiting until after pregnancy to be extra cautious.

If you are looking for alternative ways to curl your hair without the use of chemicals, you can use heat styling tools such as a curling iron or hot rollers. These tools use heat to create temporary curls that can last for a few days. Again, make sure the area is well-ventilated when using heat styling tools, and be cautious of your changing hair texture during pregnancy.

Bleaching

Hair bleaching is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, it is recommended to take certain precautions to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. Here are some important guidelines and information to consider:

Recommended Precautions

• It is advised to wait until the second trimester, after the first 13 weeks of critical growth and development, to minimise any potential risks to the baby.
• Always ensure that the procedure is performed in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling excessive chemical fumes, which can cause lightheadedness and nausea.
• Avoid direct and prolonged contact of the bleach with the scalp and skin. Bleach can irritate the skin, and the skin is often more sensitive during pregnancy.
• Wear gloves to prevent direct contact with the chemicals and to protect your hands from staining.
• Follow the package instructions carefully, including the recommended duration for leaving the bleach on the hair.
• Rinse the scalp thoroughly with water after the treatment to remove any residual bleach.
• Consider performing a patch test before bleaching to check for any allergic reactions to the product.
• Consult a doctor or dermatologist if you have any skin conditions or concerns.

Risks and Considerations

• There is limited research on the effects of hair treatments during pregnancy due to ethical and cost reasons. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that hair bleaching during pregnancy is generally safe.
• The skin acts as a strong barrier, and only minimal traces of chemicals in hair bleach are absorbed into the body through a healthy scalp.
• The primary risk is increased skin irritation, as skin sensitivity is often heightened during pregnancy. Even if there was no previous irritation, bleaching may cause itching or swelling on the scalp.
• It is important to note that hair texture and reaction to treatments can change during pregnancy, so the results of bleaching may be unpredictable.

In summary, while hair bleaching is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is important to follow the recommended precautions to ensure the health and comfort of both the mother and the baby. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalised advice is always a good idea.

Relaxers/straighteners

Relaxers, also known as perms, are hair treatments that permanently straighten hair. They contain harsh chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide (lye) or no-lye (potassium, lithium, or guanidine hydroxide). These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and may cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

There is limited research on the safety of hair relaxers during pregnancy. While there is no proof that they are dangerous, there is also no conclusive evidence that they are completely safe. Some sources recommend avoiding relaxers during pregnancy due to the potential risks associated with the chemicals they contain. These chemicals can be toxic and may cause hormonal disruption. Formaldehyde, found in many hair straightening products, is considered a known carcinogen and is currently under consideration for banning by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, during pregnancy, increased blood flow can make women more sensitive to chemicals, and some women experience nausea and headaches after using hair treatments.

However, some individuals choose to continue using hair relaxers during pregnancy. It is recommended to follow safety guidelines, such as ensuring proper ventilation, wearing gloves, and consulting a licensed hair professional who is trained to take the necessary precautions. It is also important to ask your hairstylist about the ingredients in the relaxer and their training and experience in using such products.

Ultimately, the decision to use hair relaxers during pregnancy is a personal one. Some women may decide to embrace their natural hair texture or opt for alternative hair care products specifically designed for pregnant women. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Keratin treatments

Some at-home keratin kits have been found to contain ethandial and glyoxal, both of which are carcinogens. They can cause skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation.

If you are pregnant and considering a keratin treatment, it is best to seek advice from a medical professional. There are alternative treatments available, such as deep-conditioning treatments, that can help keep hair moisturised and frizz-free during pregnancy.

Frequently asked questions