Can Pregnant Women Dye Hair Safely?
by Sami Cone
May 18, 2019
Being pregnant doesn't mean letting yourself go as a woman: to the contrary, pregnancy is quintessentially feminine and one of the times in our lives women need to pay even more attention to themselves.
But when it comes to dyeing or bleaching hair during pregnancy, there have always been questions about whether or not it's healthy for an unborn child.
It should come as no surprise that we get a lift (pun intended) from some fresh hair color, but pregnant women often worry about the personal care products they use because of how the body absorbs certain products. This is especially true of the products they use to color their hair because they are afraid of what chemicals might be in the dye or bleach and how it will affect a developing child.
So, is it safe to dye and color your hair while pregnant?
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The American Pregnancy Association says "most research indicates the chemicals found in both semi-permanent and permanent dyes are not highly toxic and are safe to use during pregnancy", but ultimately you'll want to consult with your physician on what is right for you, your body and your baby.
If you do decide to color your hair while pregnant, follow these recommendations:
1. Use Safer Products: choose natural or organic dyes
2. Save the Scalp: try techniques like balayage or highlights that don't touch the scalp
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3. Breathe Clean Air: try to avoid salons that aren't well-ventilated or work in open spaces if coloring at home
4. Wear Gloves: speaking of coloring at home, make sure to wear gloves when working with hair dye
Following the tips and recommendations above will help you both feel and look your best during your pregnancy.
Sami Cone
Best-Selling Author & Speaker
Sami Cone is the best-selling author of "Raising Uncommon Kids", is known as the "Frugal Mom" on Nashville's top-rated talk show "Talk of the Town" and educates over a million listeners every day on her nationally syndicated "Family Money Minute". She is proud to call Nashville home with her husband, Rick, and their two teenage children.
