Hair colouring during pregnancy is still quite a controversial issue in spite of the fact that the influence of currently used hair dyes on woman and foetus state hasn’t been fully documented yet. Still, while being ‘expecting’, it’s wiser to limit contact with chemical substances, including the ones which are used in hair dyes. All things considered, there is one question raising: is hair dyeing, no matter if at home or at a hairdresser’s, while being pregnant safe? We’re going to find this out!
Is hair dyeing while being pregnant safe?
Dyes with ammonia content
The most dangerous component of hair dyes is ammonia, or its substitute. Ammonia is a chemical compound which, if in high concentration, is toxic and irritates both skin and mucosa. The truth is, hair dyes contain really small amounts of ammonia. It’s aim is to increase hair absorption rate. In short, hair cuticles are raised up which makes it possible for a pigment to penetrate inside the hair shaft. Moreover, it’s the ammonia smell that can be sensed during the procedure of changing hair colour. However, inhaling minimal amounts of ammonia should pose a real danger neither to the pregnant women nor the baby.
Ammonia-free dyes
Substitute of ammonia is monoethanolamine (MEA) which acts toxic and irritating in high concertation.
To sum up, no hair dye is completely safe. Therefore, if a pregnant women has to colour her hair, she should follow a few basic rules.
How to colour hair safely while being pregnant?
Getting a new hair colour at a hairdresser’s
A pregnant woman should visit a hairdresser to have hair dyed. Such salons have to be well-vented so the stuff and customers aren’t forced inhale ammonia or other damaging substances for long.
Of course, a hairdresser should be informed about the pregnancy. Thanks to this, s/he will choose a dye of the lowest ammonia content and shortens the time that the pregnant woman has to be exposed to the harmful substances. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask for a well-vented seat, for example near a window, which neutralizes the irritating aroma.
Getting a new hair colour at home
However, if you still prefer to get your hair coloured at home, remember to wear gloves and keep airing the room where the procedure is about to be carried out. Moreover, it’s worth realising that hair of a pregnant women may react to a hair dye completely different than it does normally. And this is another reason why it is better to ask a hairdresser to colour the hair who will save the day if necessary.
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