Is It Bad to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

Is It Bad to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

Last update: 16 May, 2018

Is it really harmful to dye your hair while pregnant? We all know we must take special precautions during pregnancy. Many people believe we should also be careful when it comes to cosmetics.

Every woman wants to be beautiful during every stage of her life. For many, hair is a fundamental part of their appearance.

However, while expecting a baby, many questions arise about haircare during this stage. Is it safe to dye your hair?

In this article we’ll share with you all you need to know about dying your hair while pregnant.

Nutrition, physical activity, house planning; those are all much talked about topics for future moms.

As if this wasn’t enough; there are also the physical and hormonal changes that the body goes through. Not to mention the psychological and emotional impact pregnancy has on a woman.

Among all those questions, there are always some that remain unresolved and debated. One of them concerns beauty and cosmetics.

A lot of women use hair dyes in order to achieve the look they want. Nevertheless, they aren’t aware of whether this has any consequences while pregnant.

So, is it bad to dye your hair while pregnant?

Risks of dyeing your hair while pregnant

Many people advise against it, at least from the fourth month onward. Here are a few reasons why:

  • The baby’s vital organs form during the first few months of pregnancy. The baby’s body may be more prone to be affected by the chemicals that cause side effects in the mother’s body.
  • An allergic reaction or another undesired side effect in the mother could negatively impact the fetus.
  • Certain hair-dye brands use ingredients such as lead acetate, which can be dangerous for the child’s brain; they can also negatively affect the development of the child’s nervous system.

Hair dyes aren’t the only products that may be harmful to the baby. There have also been warnings about perms, among other similar cosmetics.

Is It Bad to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

Lack of evidence

On the other hand, some also argue there is no scientific evidence to prove the link between hair dyes and developmental issues of the fetus.

As a matter of fact, manufacturers explain that the formula for those products have been modified in the last couple of years to reduce potentially harmful side effects.

Nevertheless, they also recognize that the argument there are no risks at all has also not been scientifically proven. For this reason it is advisable to be prudent.

This means taking basic precautions. First of all, the quality: don’t use bad quality or cheap hair dyes; when pregnant you should spare a little more for your own health and that of your baby.

“Certain hair-dye brands use ingredients such as lead acetate, which can be dangerous for the child’s brain”

Similarly, you should try to limit your use of those products.

Even though the hairdresser usually decides on the amount, you should explain to him or her your situation so they can take the necessary precautions.

Last but not least, the frequency. Try to minimize the amount of times you dye your hair.

Before and after your pregnancy you can dye your hair as frequently as you want but, during your pregnancy, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

It has to be noted that the arguments we’ve raised apply to most but not all cases.

It is important to always consult your doctor before making any decisions that could affect your baby’s development.

Your doctor will be able to offer you alternatives or, in any case, precautions to consider when dyeing your hair while pregnant.

This could be, for example, dyeing your hair outdoors and always using gloves and protection for your eyes.

Is It Bad to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

After all, pregnancy is a beautiful experience during which many virtues of a woman are highlighted. She glows, and looks more feminine than ever.

Unless it’s harmful for your health, there is no reason not to take care of your appearance as well.

Nevertheless, if you don’t feel comfortable dyeing your hair while pregnant, there are always alternatives.

Organic dyes, henna, and color shampoos without ammonia are, for example, beneficial for your hair.

The decision is yours, but make sure that you’re informed and take all necessary precautions.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.