Can You Dye Your Hair While Pregnant? Here’s What You Need to Know

How to Color Your Hair Safely While Pregnant

Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD

While certain activities should be avoided during pregnancy, using hair dye probably isn't one of them. Based on available research, coloring your hair while pregnant and breastfeeding is considered safe.

However, you may be more susceptible to irritation and sensitivity if you have eczema, psoriasis, or a skin condition.

This article explains everything you need to know about hair coloring and bleaching during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

So, Is It Safe to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

Based on available research, the short answer is yes; it is safe to dye your hair while pregnant. You can consider dyeing your hair up to four times while pregnant.

A concern some people have is that hair dyes may contain toxic chemicals and these chemicals may be absorbed into the bloodstream via the scalp, causing miscarriages, congenital disabilities, or other complications. However, there is conflicting research about the toxicity of hair dye.

One study mentions that an expert panel assessed the safety of chemicals in hair dye and subsequently banned carcinogenic chemicals (those that cause cancer) in dyes, but a comprehensive review of all dye ingredients has not been documented. Any hair dye chemicals in question are used in such small doses during application compared to the toxic levels in mass quantities that they are generally considered safe.

Available evidence also shows minimal dye absorption into the system, although research is limited.

Many experts believe the chemicals in semipermanent and permanent dyes are not highly toxic and are safe during pregnancy.

Applications such as highlights and hair painting pose even lower risks because the color is applied only to the hair, not the scalp. Pure vegetable dyes, like henna, are also safe alternatives.

When Is the Best Time to Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

The first trimester is a delicate time when your baby is most susceptible to toxins like alcohol and certain medications. Healthcare providers recommend waiting to dye your hair until the second or third trimester. Some even recommend waiting until after your baby is born in high-risk pregnancies.

Can You Dye Your Hair During the First Trimester?

It's not recommended to dye hair during the early months of pregnancy. Many critical developmental milestones occur during this trimester. For instance, your baby's brain begins to develop around weeks six and seven of your first trimester, therefore, it is best to avoid adding chemical dyes to your scalp at this time.

Precautions for People With Skin Conditions

Another factor to consider is how your skin reacts to dye. Pregnancy can cause changes in your skin, like sensitivity and rashes. It can also bring underlying genetic conditions, like eczema, to the surface. You may be newly allergic or sensitive to a dye that never bothered you before.

If you have existing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, you may be more susceptible to irritation and sensitivity at this time.

An average of 38% of people who use hair dye reported having an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions are typically local to the scalp, face, and neck and can cause itching and burning.

Precautions for Pregnant People

Whether you're at home or at a salon, ensure these safety precautions are exercised when you dye your hair:

• Do a patch test: Pregnancy can cause changes in your skin or existing conditions. Doing a patch test ensures your skin does not react.

• Proper ventilation: Strong smells can cause nausea or headaches. Open a window or turn on an exhaust fan if dying at home.

• Wear gloves: Skin can be more sensitive during pregnancy, plus gloves eliminate dye-to-skin exposure.

• Follow package directions: If coloring hair at home, rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly, and never leave the dye on longer than recommended.

Can You Color Your Hair While Breastfeeding?

Currently, no data on hair treatments while breastfeeding is available.

According to experts, a small amount (if any) of the chemicals from the dye would make it into the bloodstream. Therefore, the chance of it entering the milk is unlikely.

Like everyone, pregnant people are unknowingly exposed to toxins daily. Bioaccumulation from other toxic chemicals, like PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated substances), will likely appear in breast milk, so limiting all known and potential risks, such as hair dye, is something to consider.

Can You Bleach Your Hair During Pregnancy?

If a healthcare provider is on board, bleaching your hair during the second or third trimester of pregnancy is most likely safe.

Bleach typically contains ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, so it's recommended to have it applied by a professional in a well-ventilated space.

Summary

Dyeing your hair during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally considered safe. While there is no definitive study or research to back this, experts believe the trace amounts of dye absorbed by the skin (if any) are unlikely to cause health issues.

With any pregnancy, precautions are recommended. Wait until the second or third trimester to treat your hair. If you're in a high-risk pregnancy or feel uneasy about interacting with chemicals during pregnancy, consider plant-based dyes as an alternative. Consult a healthcare provider on the safest plan for you and your baby.