Recently, Kourtney Kardashian caused a stir by choosing to add chestnut highlights to her dark hair while carrying her unborn child. Many new moms believe that the chemicals involved with hair dyes and straightening treatments are harmful to their babies, but most sources would agree that Kourtney’s decision was perfectly safe.
There are certainly many chemicals involved in hair treatments, from perms to dyes to relaxers, but the amount that’s absorbed by your skin during the processes is very little. However, it’s still a good idea to be a bit cautious by waiting until your second trimester before touching up your highlights or choosing to make a change to your hair’s natural hue. This is due to the fact that your baby is particularly fragile in the beginning stages of pregnancy, and the rate of miscarriage is at its highest during this time.
Breathing in the fumes associated with hair treatments is also thought to be harmful, as many chemicals (like ammonia) have strong scents. You might want to avoid using products with strong odors, or simply ensure that your salon or your house is well-ventilated before you engage in a process. Also, be sure to follow directions carefully so that you’re not leaving a product on your hair for longer than necessary.
If you’re dying your own tresses, make sure that you’re wearing gloves during application and that you rinse your hair out as soon as your strands are done processing. This will minimize your exposure (and also ensure that your color comes out right). It’s always a good idea to do a strand test before you do your entire head to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction.
Keeping your hair in tip-top shape during a pregnancy can boost your morale and a trip to the salon is a welcoming treat. Don’t be afraid to indulge yourself – just be careful!