Beauty regimes during pregnancy

Hair dying

Research is limited in this area, but so far there has been no indication that dying your hair causes adverse effects to your baby. Although hair dye is a chemical, very little of it is actually absorbed into the body and therefore it isn’t considered to be harmful to the foetus.

If you’re wanting to be extra cautious, perhaps opt for highlights instead as the dye is only applied to the hair strands and not the scalp. Another consideration would be to wait until you’re in your second trimester as this avoids any chemical exposure whatsoever during the initial part of foetal organ development.

If you are getting your hair dyed make sure you are in a well ventilated area. If you’re dying your hair at home, make sure you wear gloves, don’t leave the dye on for any longer than indicated and thoroughly rinse after treatment. Perhaps try and limit your dying sessions to no more than 4 times during your pregnancy.

Dying your hair during breastfeeding is also not considered to be harmful to your baby. As the chemical abortion is so minimal, the chance of them entering the milk and posing a risk to your baby is unlikely.

Nail treatments

The chemicals associated with nail treatments have not shown to cause harm to the foetus, although research in this area is also limited.

The biggest issue that could arise from visiting the nail salon is that the fumes may make you feel nauseated, but they aren’t toxic to the baby. Choose a nail salon with good ventilation and sterilised equipment. Pregnancy compromises your immune system and consequently you are more prone to infection.

Ensuring you are being treated with clean, sterile instruments is important.

If you’re wanting to paint your nails at home and want to be extra cautious, try and use nail polish free from chemicals such as dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, toluene and acetone. Thankfully brands such as OPI, Sally Hansen and Essie generally don’t contain these chemicals.

Fake tan

The ingredient used in fake tan is called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). It interacts with your skin cells and produces a brown pigment. It only penetrates the outermost layer of your skin and it isn’t absorbed into the blood steam. Fake tan in cream or lotion form is safe as DHA cannot enter the body. Fake tan applied via spray poses a risk as you are more likely to inhale the chemical.

Hair removal

Waxing is safe. You might find your skin becomes more sensitive during pregnancy so perhaps try and use a gentle formula. Laser hair removal is not advised due to lack of evidence and research surrounding its effect upon the foetus.

Botox

Botox is not recommended because again there is limited research about its effects upon the baby.