Medical Advice on Pregnancy & Hair Coloring

Hair coloring changes the color of hair by adhering to the hair follicles. Approximately 55 percent of women color their hair, according to a survey by Clairol. Many of these women continue to do so while pregnant. Hair color's two main ingredients are hydrogen peroxide and ammonia.

Risks

According to Dr. Roger W. Harms of the Mayo Clinic, there is a slight association between childhood cancer and use of hair coloring while pregnant. However, research is still being done to determine if there are any concrete risks to the mother or baby.

After the First Trimester

If you choose to color your hair during pregnancy, it is recommended that you wait until after the first trimester of pregnancy to reduce the possible risk of harm to yourself and the unborn baby.

Highlights

Highlights are considered to be safer than traditional hair coloring as they are only painted on strands of hair instead of being applied to the whole head.

Scalp and Skin

Hair color should not touch the scalp or skin when pregnant. The chemicals can be absorbed in the skin and scalp which can may be harmful to both mother and baby.

Permanent Color

It is best to avoid permanent color when pregnant. Permanent color oftentimes requires more application, a longer wait time for the color to be absorbed in the hair follicles and more frequent touch-ups, which increases the amount of chemicals absorbed in your body.

Temporary Color

If you are going to color your hair, temporary color is best. This form of hair color often contains henna, which is safe to use during pregnancy. Temporary hair color can last from one shampoo to several weeks.

References

• Parents.com
• MayoClinic
• Baby Center

Resources

• San Francisco Jewish Community Publicatons
• How Stuff Works