Pregnancy safe haircare: A hairstylist and dermat tell you what you need to know

During pregnancy, haircare and skincare can be notoriously tricky. Navigating issues like acne and changing hair textures can be complicated by itself, so adding in a whole new pregnancy-safe routine into the mix can be overwhelming. When it comes to hair, women can find issues with dryness, stress-induced hair loss and changing textures and strengths. Many over-the-counter shampoos, conditioners and styling products may not work during this time, so we spoke to Dr Kiran Sethi from New Delhi-based ISYA Aesthetics, and celebrity hairstylist Florian Hurel, for their take. 

This is how hair can change during pregnancy

A common positive effect that many pregnant women experience is great hair. The increase in blood volume, and the level of hormones like oestrogen in the body means that many women have shinier and more voluminous hair during this phase. “Typically, pregnancy hormones keep hair in the growth phase. Which means that hair gets thicker and longer during pregnancy, which is positive,” says Dr Sethi.

For some women, lacklustre hair can be due to a lack of protein (a lot of the nutrients could be going to the baby), which can leave strands looking dull and prone to split ends. For others, anxiety and stress from pregnancy can leave hair falling out in clumps. Due to the 180 degree shift with hormones, the shape of the hair follicle can actually change, turning hair from straight to wavy, or curly to kinky. 

How endocrine disruptors in haircare products can affect the body

Our endocrine system is made up of glands that secrete hormones that are essential for the smooth functioning of several systems of the body. However, what you eat and the products you use can often interrupt the regular functioning of the glands and cause a shift in your hormone levels. “Endocrine disruptors include parabens, phthalates and synthetic fragrances—they can be found in most hair products,” says Dr Sethi. Research has found that some fragrances can cause issues to male reproductive organs during pregnancy, and parabens and phthalates have been found to cause cancer in large-enough quantities. 

Here's how to pick clean haircare and hairstyling products

While shampoos and conditioners can seem pretty innocuous, they can be chock-full with parabens, fragrances and preservatives. This mixes up with the steam in the shower and is usually inhaled, and is applied on the scalp. Doctors suggest looking for products that contain as few ingredients as possible, skipping harsh cleansers and essential oils. “If you use a prescription shampoo (like for dandruff), check with your doctor before continuing,” says Hurel, as those can contain salicylic acid.

If you love experimenting and regularly opt for chemical straightening or perming treatments, that are best avoided during pregnancy as they can contain formaldehyde (the same ingredient in nail polish) and also release heavy fumes. “They are not considered safe to try during pregnancy and it’s best to avoid them,” says Dr Sethi. Hairsprays can have strong fumes as well, that are best avoided. Instead, gels and mousses might be safer choices. 

Can you colour your hair when you're pregnant?

“Although fairly limited, most research indicates the chemicals found in both semi-permanent and permanent dyes are not highly toxic and are safe to use during pregnancy. While most breastfeeding mothers stay away from any chemical products, there isn't any research to suggest that hair colouring or perming can have negative effects on your baby,” says Hurel. With the worry of products being absorbed through the pores of your scalp, highlighting or styles such as balayage which don’t need the colour to touch the scalp are safer options.  

However, there are certain ingredients that are commonly found in hair colours that one should stay away from. “Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) is the most problematic ingredient during pregnancy. It may have a risk of causing cancer to the baby,” says Dr Sethi. “Any hair colour that does not contain ammonia, parabens, peroxide, resorcinol, and paraphenylenediamine is safe to use during pregnancy. Do test the dye for its compatibility with your skin, even if you are buying a safe product,” adds Hurel. Natural indigo and henna-based colours are acceptable says Dr Sethi, though one should check for allergies before applying these too.

The upside is that most women have stronger, healthier hair that might need less heat styling and colouring during their pregnancy anyway, according to Hurel. “Oil your hair, keep it moisturised and enjoy the benefits of the folic acid supplements and hormone levels,” says Dr Sethi.

Also read:

All the skincare and wellness changes you need to make during pregnancy

8 skincare rules you need to keep in mind during your pregnancy

The truth about the ingredients in your favourite bottle of shampoo