Studies have shown that the use of hair dyes and styling products during pregnancy results in very little of the product being absorbed into the skin if there are no open sores on the scalp. Therefore, if you are pregnant and have no open areas on your scalp, it is unlikely that such products will cause harm to your unborn baby. If you are planning to color your hair during your pregnancy, consider using a plant-based hair dye. There is no information available on whether or not ammonia-based hair dyes are safe. Because of the limited information regarding the safety of dyes that contain ammonia and peroxide, experts suggest that pregnant women choose hair dye that does not contain ammonia or peroxide. There are many brands that do not contain these ingredients. It is also important to apply hair dye in a well-ventilated area if you suffer from allergies or asthma because you may be more sensitive to certain scents during pregnancy. Also, try to avoid using new products, as your skin is more sensitive when you are pregnant. Nail polish should be applied in a well-ventilated area due to the fact that some polishes contain formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. It is recommended that you avoid getting a tattoo while you are pregnant; however, there are no proven risks if you receive a tattoo before you are aware of pregnancy. The ink used in tattoos contains both inorganic and synthetic organic pigments, which are considered cosmetics by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Because of the wide array of pigments used unsterile practices, there is the risk of infection. If you have questions or concerns about any product, talk to your physician or midwife before using it. Your healthcare provider should guide you through your pregnancy, and through the childbirth process. If you, your loved one, or your child sustained an injury because of the negligence of your doctor, you may be entitled to compensation. To schedule a free consultation with an experienced birth injury attorney, please call Crandall & Pera Law at 877-955-0020 or fill out our contact form. Lockwood, C., & Magriples, U. (2018). Prenatal care: Patient education, health promotion, and safety of commonly used drugs. UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com Pomeranz, M. (2017). Maternal adaptations to pregnancy: Skin, hair, nails, and mucous Membranes. UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com
Hair Dye, Nail Polish, and Tattoos: Safety in Pregnancy