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Dyeing hair to enhance beauty and look more attractive is a desire shared by all women, even when pregnant. However, the question of whether pregnant women can dye their hair? and its effects on the fetus remain a concern for expectant mothers. Therefore, expectant mothers should read the following article to address their concerns.
Answering whether pregnant women can dye their hair
The issue of whether pregnant women should dye their hair is still a topic of ongoing debate. Some pregnant women share that during pregnancy, they continue to use hair dye, perm their hair, or use various beauty products. However, their babies still develop normally. Therefore, they believe that dyeing hair during pregnancy is fine.
However, this may not be entirely accurate. Because the components of hair dye and hair straighteners contain many harmful chemicals such as phenylenediamine, aminophenol, which can negatively affect health.
Today, there are many types of hair dyes advertised as originating from natural sources and completely safe for pregnant women. However, in reality, each type of hair dye has different chemical compositions; therefore, determining which hair dye is safe for the health of pregnant women is very difficult.
Meanwhile, with just a few harmful chemicals, they can penetrate the skin and directly cause harm to the body of pregnant women.
Furthermore, using hair dye is also one of the reasons leading to allergies in the body of pregnant women, including symptoms such as facial swelling, itching, allergies, and red rashes...
How does hair dyeing affect the fetus?
Question: Does hair dyeing affect the fetus? According to experts, regardless of whether it is hair dye or any other beauty method used during pregnancy, it will affect the health of pregnant women and babies. Especially during the first three months of pregnancy because this is a crucial period for the formation and development of the fetus.
- During this time, the fetus will begin to form the brain at its highest level. Therefore, dyeing hair during this period is not recommended. Because hair dye usually contains harmful chemicals not good for health such as phenylenediamine, aminophenol...
- In common types of hair dye, there is ammonia in the composition, which is a strong alkaline oxidizing agent. Therefore, dyeing hair will alter the structure of the hair fibers and weaken the hair protection system, making the hair more prone to damage, dryness, or increased shedding.
- Experts have also warned about the harmful effects of hair dye containing a lot of ammonia. Inhaling this substance too much during pregnancy can lead to the formation of contractions, increase the risk of premature birth, and have negative effects on the health of the baby in the womb.
- According to information shared by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the impact of pregnant women using hair dye on the fetus depends on whether the dye contains a lot of ammonia and peroxide.
Things to note if pregnant women still want to dye their hair
- Whether pregnant women can dye their hair is generally not recommended, but if they still want to dye their hair for beauty purposes, they should pay attention to the following points:
- Dye your hair when you reach the second trimester: Experts advise pregnant women to wait until the second trimester before dyeing their hair. This is because the first 12 weeks are a crucial period of development for the baby when organs are forming, muscles, nails, and hair follicles are also starting to develop.
- Although there is currently no research confirming the harmful ingredients in temporary or regular hair dye products, for safety reasons, pregnant women should limit the use of these products.
- Pregnant women should read the instructions carefully before using any type of hair dye.
- Only use hair dyes that are safe for pregnant women.
- Pregnant women should also wear gloves when dyeing their hair at home.
Pregnant women should opt for applying hair dye on their hair instead of their scalp. By doing this, the dye cannot penetrate the mother's bloodstream. However, pregnant women should try to see if they are allergic to the dye before using it.
Pregnant women should avoid using eyelash or eyebrow dye as it can cause infection or swelling.
Pregnant women should also avoid leaving the dye on for too long and should apply it in a well-ventilated area instead of a closed room.
Ensure to thoroughly wash the scalp to prevent the pregnant body from absorbing the dye.
Usually, hair changes during pregnancy, becoming thicker and more resistant to color. Therefore, expectant mothers can repeat the dyeing process.
Lastly, pregnant women should consult with a doctor before dyeing their hair.
So we've answered the question for expectant mothers - can you dye your hair when pregnant and what impact does it have on the fetus? Through this article, mothers can learn and reference to ensure the safest and healthiest pregnancy period.
