You’ve got a growing baby bump, the pregnancy glow everyone raves about, and… oh no, your roots are showing. You’re probably wondering, “Can I still dye my hair while pregnant?” Well, you’re not alone in wondering AT ALL.
When I was pregnant, my hair stopped falling out, and for the first time in forever, it grew thick and lush. I was loving it! (Of course, it all fell out afterward—but let’s not worry about that right now!).
The idea of keeping my hair looking fresh was important to me while the bun was in the oven. I mean, I couldn’t even reach my toenails to paint them anymore, so at the very least I wanted my hair to look good!
It’s a super common question, and we’re tackling it head-on today. So, let’s get right into whether or not you can keep that hair color vibrant while expecting.
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Is It Safe to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?
So, is dyeing your hair during pregnancy a no-no, or are we just being over-cautious? According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), dyeing your hair is generally considered safe because so little of the chemical is absorbed through the skin.
However, it’s best to wait until after the first trimester because the first 12 weeks are when your baby’s organs are developing.
During this time, some healthcare professionals recommend being extra cautious with anything that could involve strong chemicals, even if the risk is low.
TLDR;
It’s generally safe to dye your hair while pregnant, but most experts recommend waiting until after the first trimester.
How Pregnancy Can Change Your Hair (And How to Handle It)
Pregnancy hormones can do all sorts of things to your body, and your hair is no exception! Here’s what you might notice:
- Faster Growth: Many women find that their hair grows faster and falls out less during pregnancy. That’s because your hair hangs out in the growing phase longer than usual.
- Changes in Texture: Your hair might feel drier or oilier than it used to, and for some, the color even shifts slightly. Hormones can do weird things to your hair’s texture!
- Thicker Hair: It may seem like your hair is suddenly thicker, but it’s not that each strand is bigger. You’re just not shedding as much hair as you normally would, so it feels fuller.
- Unwanted Hair Growth: Yep, hair might start growing in some unexpected places, like your face, belly, or even around your nipples. Don’t worry—this extra hair usually goes away after the baby arrives.
But after pregnancy, your estrogen levels drop, which can trigger a big shedding phase (hello, postpartum hair loss!). It might seem like you’re losing a lot of hair, but it’s totally normal, and your hair will eventually go back to its regular cycle.
Common Myths About Dyeing Hair While Pregnant
Let’s bust a few myths!
- “All hair dye is dangerous for pregnant women.” — Not true! Many dyes, especially semi-permanent or ammonia-free, are considered safe, as long as you follow safety precautions.
- “Pregnant women can only use natural dyes.” — False! Natural dyes are an option, but so are many ammonia-free and semi-permanent products.
Types of Hair Dyes: Which Ones Are Safe During Pregnancy?
Ok, so you’ve got the go ahead to cover those roots. Now let’s talk about the types of dyes and which ones are best when you’re expecting.
1. Permanent vs. Semi-permanent Dyes
Permanent dyes contain stronger chemicals like ammonia and peroxide.
According to dermatologists like Dr. Shilpi Khetarpal, from the Cleveland Clinic, semi-permanent dyes are a safer bet because they contain fewer harsh chemicals and fade after a few washes.
They don’t penetrate the hair shaft as deeply, making them less intense and generally safer during pregnancy.
One great option is Clairol Natural Instincts, which is ammonia-free and adds natural-looking color that gradually fades without the commitment of permanent dye.
2. Ammonia-free Dyes
Ammonia is the ingredient in permanent hair dyes that helps open the hair shaft so the color can penetrate deeply, but it can also cause strong fumes.
The American Pregnancy Association notes that choosing ammonia-free dyes is a great way to avoid those harsh smells and reduce chemical exposure.
Ammonia-free dyes like Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit can be a fantastic solution. This stink-free product known for its nourishing formula with keratin and argan oil, making it gentler on your hair while keeping your color fresh.
Another excellent choice is Naturtint, which combines permanent color with plant-based ingredients to keep your hair healthy.
Expert Insights
“Naturtint is a great choice for expectant mothers because it contains natural ingredients, which minimize the potential for skin irritation while still offering vibrant color.”
3. Natural and Organic Dyes
When it comes to safety, natural hair dyes like henna or plant-based dyes are fantastic options.
However, the FDA advises being cautious about the quality of henna products, as some may contain unwanted additives. Always read the labels carefully!
If you prefer a completely natural route, henna or plant-based dyes might be your go-to. But not all henna is created equal—always avoid “black henna,” which may contain harmful chemicals like PPD.
Instead, look for 100% pure henna options like The Henna Guys Pure Henna Powder or Light Mountain Natural Hair Color.
Both are plant-based and free from additives, so you can safely give your hair a color refresh while pregnant.
4. Color-depositing Shampoos and Conditioners
If you’re looking for a way to refresh your hair color without dyeing, color-depositing shampoos and conditioners are a gentle alternative.
Overtone Coloring Conditioner is a top pick, as it deposits color and conditions your hair at the same time, helping you extend the life of your hair color between dye sessions.
“Color-depositing conditioners like Overtone are an excellent way for pregnant women to maintain their hair color without exposure to harsh chemicals, as these products only deposit color on the hair’s surface.”
5. Highlights vs. Full Head Dye
Good news: highlights are considered even safer than full-head dye jobs!
So if you’re still unsure about full-head dye jobs, highlights might be a safer alternative.
Since the dye is applied in foils, it doesn’t touch your scalp, meaning less chemical absorption. If you’re headed to the salon, ask for ammonia-free products, or if you’re sticking to home treatments, just make sure to use a well-ventilated area.
Expert Insights
“Highlights are a safer option during pregnancy because the dye is applied away from the scalp, reducing the risk of chemical absorption while still providing a fresh look.”
Best Practices for Dyeing Your Hair While Pregnant
Once you’ve chosen your dye, here are some smart practices to follow for extra safety:
Wait Until After the First Trimester
Most experts, including the ACOG, suggest holding off until the second trimester before dyeing your hair.
This reduces potential risks when your baby’s development is at its most vulnerable.
Ventilation Is Key
Make sure you dye your hair in a well-ventilated space.
Strong chemical fumes can cause nausea and headaches (and who needs that when you’re already dealing with pregnancy symptoms?).
Dr. Khetarpal emphasizes the importance of fresh air circulation whenever using hair dyes.
Always Do a Patch Test
Pregnancy can cause unexpected changes in your skin’s sensitivity.
Even if you’ve been dyeing your hair for years, doing a patch test before applying any color is essential to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Salon vs. At-home Dye
If you want to play it extra safe, going to a salon and letting professionals handle the dye process is a great idea.
Dr. Khetarpal suggests opting for a well-ventilated salon where you can discuss pregnancy-safe options.
But if you’re a DIY queen, just be sure to follow all instructions carefully!
How to Take Care of Your Hair During Pregnancy
- Skip the hot water: Washing your hair with hot water can dry it out. Stick to lukewarm water instead to keep your hair’s natural oils intact.
- Use gentle products: Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners with no harsh chemicals to keep your hair healthy.
- Minimize heat styling: Try to air-dry your hair when you can, or use a heat protectant if you’re blow-drying or styling with heat.
- Consider taking pregnancy-safe hair vitamins: Talk to your doctor about supplements with biotin, B vitamins, folic acid, vitamin D, and iron. These can help keep your hair strong and healthy during pregnancy.
By making a few small changes, you can keep your hair looking and feeling great during pregnancy—and handle those hormonal changes like a pro!
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s tackle the burning questions about hair dye and pregnancy!
Is Hair Dye Harmful to My Baby?
According to the American Pregnancy Association, minimal amounts of hair dye chemicals are absorbed through the skin, so the risk to your baby is extremely low.
However, waiting until after the first trimester is generally recommended.
What If I Already Dyed My Hair Before Knowing I Was Pregnant?
Don’t worry! Most women who dye their hair early on without knowing they’re pregnant don’t experience any issues.
Moving forward, just follow the guidelines we’ve discussed for a safer approach.
Can I Use At-home Hair Dye Kits?
Yes! Just choose ammonia-free or semi-permanent dyes, and make sure to apply them in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes.
What About Chemical Smells?
To reduce exposure to strong chemical smells, make sure the room you’re in is well-ventilated. Step outside for some fresh air while the dye processes if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Parting Words
So, can you dye your hair when pregnant? The answer is a reassuring yes, but with a few precautions to keep both you and your baby safe.
Whether you’re sticking with natural henna, opting for ammonia-free dyes, or going bold with highlights, just remember to follow the safety tips outlined above and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Pregnancy doesn’t mean sacrificing fabulous hair! With the right products and mindful practices, you can keep your color vibrant while protecting your health.
From ammonia-free dyes to color-depositing conditioners, there are plenty of safe, stylish options to help you feel your best during this exciting time.
Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @coloredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair dye success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
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