Hair dye during pregnancy

A common question woman ask during pregnancy, is it safe to colour their hair? At a time when they may not feel their best, a visit to the hairdresser or colouring it at home, can seem like a great little pick me up. 

So what are the recommendations for women?

According to Stevie English, award winning hair stylist and colouring expert, hair dye is safe during pregnancy. He notes that hair dye does sink into the scalp, but hair dyes these days are low in ammonia and chemicals.

However, for women who are particularly concerned about the impact on their baby, English suggests two great options for women. “Highlights are an excellent alternative for women as the highlights don’t soak into the scalp. On the other hand, women can ask for something called a ‘water colour hair dye.’ These contain no ammonia, no peroxide and no PPD.” Water colour hair dye is not stocked in all salons, so women should check before booking their appointment. They are the equivalent of a heavy stain or permanent dye and are certainly a safe option for women who are worried about having any impact on their baby.

English strongly recommends women go to their local salons to get their hair done, particularly during pregnancy. The reasons for this are simple: “The technology in home hair dye kits is much older than in salons. Sometimes they are up to ten years behind. Salons have far more up to date colour systems which are far better for your hair and the environment.”

At a time when hormones are running riot it is also important not to make rash decisions about hair cuts and colours. Your facial structure will change during the coming weeks and months, and it is often better to stick with your current style. Stevie English advises women to at least seek a professional consult before attempting any dramatic changes during pregnancy. “Hairdressers can use their 3 years of training, knowledge and expertise to help you make the best and safest choice for you and your baby during a special time.”

Kristen Hunter knows this only too well. A year after her baby was born she is still regretting her decision to cut off her long curly hair and have a close crop. “I thought it would be easier to maintain after my baby was born, but I’ve hated it since and it’s been almost impossible to grow back. I’ve started taking iron tablets to help my hair grow faster!”

When colouring your hair, it is important to be aware that there is very little difference between a permanent and semi-permanent hair colour. Very few semi-permanent colours are gone in eight weeks, so you can be left with a colour you dislike for a long period if you are not aware of this. In addition, semi permanents tend to darken your hair. They will not lift or lighten your colour. Henna is an alternative, but it has metallic salts in it which make it difficult to remove if you aren’t happy with the colour.

Ela Jamieson agrees. “Henna is insanely messy and my bathroom looked like a bomb hit it afterwards. Months later I still have traces of it in my hair.”

Ensuring you feel good inside and out is an important aspect of a happy pregnancy, and a hair cut and colour is often an excellent break from a busy time. With a little thought you can now make an appointment or do it at home knowing it is completely safe for you and baby.

Have more questions on pregnancy? Join a support group (if you have not done so!). Motherhood represents a completely new phase in your life, so you want to find a community of new mothers who can journey together with you. Pregnancy tips, parenting tips, free diaper samples and exclusive diaper offers shared on the Huggies Club platform can ensure you are best prepared for your newborn child too.