How to Dye Hair in the First Trimester of Pregnancy
The jury is still out on whether or not it's safe to dye your hair during the first trimester of pregnancy. So far, there aren't any reliable studies that provide an answer one way or another. Since there is so little solid information about hair chemical use during pregnancy, the safety of dyeing hair is somewhat murky. A pregnant woman must decide what she thinks is best, perhaps with a little advice from her doctor.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Dye Hair Safely
-
1
Wait until your first trimester of pregnancy is over. The first 3 months of pregnancy are the most critical for your baby's developing organs. If you wait for the second trimester, your baby may be less vulnerable to the chemicals in hair dye.
-
2
Ask your obstetrician--a doctor who delivers babies and provides prenatal care--for advice. Your doctor may have the latest news about chemical use during pregnancy.
-
-
3
Understand that your scalp and skin may absorb some of the hair dye you use on your hair. According to the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists, chemicals that are absorbed by your scalp may exit your body in your urine. Because hair chemicals are absorbed by your scalp and end up in your bloodstream, there's a chance they can make it to your baby and cause harm.
-
4
Consider the fact that hair chemicals have produced some birth defects in animal studies, according to PubMed Central. However, these studies used a much larger amount of chemicals than are found in a typical hair treatment. As such, it's possible that low levels of hair chemicals will be safe during your pregnancy.
-
5
Visit a natural hair care salon and opt for a hair dye that doesn't contain chemicals. Alternatively, you may ask your regular stylist to obtain some chemical-free dye to use during your pregnancy.
-
6
Dye your hair in a well-ventilated area. Many hair chemicals give off noxious fumes that may be harmful while you are pregnant. Keep a window, door or both open to allow fresh air to circulate during your hair treatment.
-
7
Wear gloves if you decide to color your own hair instead of visiting a salon. This will keep hair dye from being absorbed into the skin on your hands in addition to your scalp.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you're worried about hair dye but still hoping to change your appearance, consider getting highlights. According to Parents.com, you can avoid having chemicals touch your scalp if you highlight instead of dye.
Don't automatically assume a hair care product is safe just because it's advertised as "natural." Some products contain harmful chemicals despite their all-natural labeling. Ask your doctor about the safety of a hair dye's ingredients before you use it.
