Care for Your Hair during Pregnancy

Normally, hair grows in regular cycle, gaining half an inch per month before going into a resting phase for two or three months and then gradually falling out, usually during brushing or washing. However, thanks to higher hormone level during pregnancy, hair tends to remain in the resting phase longer than usual making it thicker and filler which might compel many women to seek hair treatment frequently. This might involve using temporary dying, bleaching or relaxing methods. Some process involves chemicals.

So if you are pregnant and thinking of having your hair treated chemically think again. This is because it is possible that your hair will respond negatively to the chemicals, or that the substance can be absorbed through the scalp and into the blood stream.

Indeed there is evidence to suggest that chemicals from hair products can be absorbed through the scalp in sufficient amounts to adversely affect the mother and the growing baby. These include birth defects pre term delivery, low birth-weight and miscarriage. The damage depends on the amount of exposure, the period during pregnancy and frequency of use of hair products.

Although absorption of hair dye through the skin is minimal, there is concern that breathing fumes during the process can be harmful to the developing baby. Permanent hair dyes and straitening products contain ammonia, which emits a strong smell.

For the average woman three to four treatments during pregnancy does not appear to increase the adverse effects on the foetus. However, it is important to wait until the second trimester to have any chemical treatment, and to have it done in a well ventilated setting, and with proper timing. Rinsing the scalp thoroughly after treatment and avoiding heated hair instruments is advisable. If a hair dryer must be used use the cooler settings.

If you are a hairdresser, it is advisable to wear gloves to minimize hazards, work less than 35 hours per week and avoid standing for long periods.