Is it safe to dye your hair during pregnancy?
You’ve just found out you’re pregnant and have a hairdresser appointment coming up. Your roots are already showing, and you really need a touch-up. Now you’re wondering: “Should I dye my hair or not?”
There are concerns about possible harmful effects of chemical substances on the unborn child, which is why it’s generally advised to avoid hair dye during the first trimester. Every pregnant woman reacts differently to the chemicals in hair dyes. The best thing to do is ask your doctor or midwife directly.
Why is hair dye not recommended during pregnancy?
It is believed that the chemicals in hair dye may have harmful effects on the fetus. However, research on this subject is limited, and some studies suggest that dyeing hair during pregnancy is generally safe if certain precautions are taken. Because the topic is so controversial, you should always seek medical advice from your doctor or midwife before dyeing your hair.
Things to keep in mind when dyeing your hair during pregnancy:
- Use hair dyes labeled safe for use during pregnancy (e.g. ammonia-free or low-ammonia formulas).
- Semi-permanent dyes usually contain fewer harmful chemicals than permanent ones.
- Ensure proper ventilation while dyeing to minimize fumes.
- Avoid direct contact of the dye with your scalp.
- Wait until the second trimester (by then, most organs are developed, and the risk is lower).
- Use professional help to reduce scalp contact.
- Dye your hair less frequently than usual.
- Always consult your doctor or midwife.
What can happen if you dye your hair during pregnancy?
Current research suggests it’s unlikely that a baby would be harmed by chemical hair dye. However, pregnant women often react more sensitively. Whether it’s just the roots or the whole head, the risk of allergic reactions is higher during pregnancy.
When is it safe to dye your hair in pregnancy?
There’s no strict rule. To be safe, avoid hair dye during the first 12 weeks. After the first trimester, when most fetal organs are developed, the risk is lower.
That’s why many women wait until the second trimester (around week 13). Even then, use gentle dyes, avoid scalp contact, and always check with your doctor or midwife.
Which hair dyes can be used during pregnancy?
Options to consider (always with medical advice):
- Ammonia-free or low-ammonia dyes.
- Plant-based or natural hair colors (less aggressive, but shorter lasting).
- Semi-permanent dyes (no ammonia or peroxide).
- Henna (must be pure and additive-free; check for allergies first).
- Products labeled “pregnancy-safe” or “for sensitive skin”.
- Semi-permanent, chemical-free dyes.
Always do a patch test: apply a small amount to your skin and wait 24–48 hours.
Midwife’s tip
Even if brands promote dyes with fewer harmful substances, it’s best to avoid them during pregnancy or choose gentler alternatives. After pregnancy and breastfeeding, you can return to normal dyeing.
Can you bleach your hair during pregnancy?
Bleach contains strong chemicals like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide. While some studies suggest hair dye is generally safe, bleaching remains controversial due to its harsh ingredients.
Recommendation: switch to gentler coloring methods and consult your doctor or midwife first.
What about covering gray hair during pregnancy?
Avoid dye until after the first trimester. From the second trimester, use semi-permanent dyes — usually enough to cover gray hair.
Are highlights safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Since highlights don’t usually touch the scalp, they can be a good alternative starting in the second trimester.
As always, when in doubt, talk to your doctor or midwife.
