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Ask a Beauty Blogger: I’m Pregnant, Can I Cut My Hair?

Pregnancy Hair Care

I’ve been receiving a huge number of questions about hair care while pregnant. I get them in my inbox, over twitter, in blog post comments… This is the only one that was actually submitted to the Ask a Beauty Blogger question form, but I thought it was a good time to address the haircut during pregnancy question and a few other pregnancy hair care questions (note that I’m not even going to try to answer that hair dye and pregnancy question that is always so controversial. I leave that up to you, your OB and your hair stylist).

First, to answer Sushmita’s actual question, I pulled in the big guns. Meaning, my hair stylist from California, the woman I miss dearly (my hair stylist here in Michigan is good, but she just isn’t Shannon), and if I could afford it I would really, truly fly to California every 6 weeks to see Shannon. She is that nice of a person and that good. Shannon Ely works at Salon TM2 in Irvine, if you go and see her tell her I say hi!

Here’s what Shannon had to say to Sushmita:

Of course you may cut and trim your hair throughout your entire pregnancy. I, personally, tell my pregnant clients that I won’t do any drastic changes to their cuts at this time however because hormones make them want to change their look and then they typically are regretful. Soo… Wait for your hormones to get back to normal before you decide to try that pixie cut you’ve always wanted.

This is soooo true. I can’t even tell you how many of my friends have chopped (and I mean chopped) and all of them regretted it. Everyone blamed it on hormones run amok.

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About Me

I’m a doctor, a mommy and a bit of a beauty addict. If you let me, I can take 2 hours to get ready in the morning. Really. I'm on a quest for faster beauty that works!

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52 Comments

  1. 3.16.13
    Anonymous said:

    Is this for real? The question? No joking? I hardly can believe it…
    Sara

  2. 3.16.13

    Yeah, that is what we were wondering, but I've actually gotten a few variations of the same question, from different people! Hence, I answered it. Hair is dead stuff, you can pretty much do whatever you want to it while you're pregnant, but beware the hormones and regretting your cute new pixie hair style!

  3. 9.16.18
    Marianna said:

    Hi, was wondering if you have any do/don’t ingredients for hair shampoo/conditioner as you have for skincare/makeup that are beyond helpful!!!! I found one shampoo to have salycic acid?! Is condition safer as it’s usually mostly on the ends ?

    Thank you!

    • 9.17.18
      15mins said:

      I’ve been told you don’t need to worry about shampoo/conditioner since very little of it actually reaches your scalp.

  4. 9.19.18
    Amanda said:

    What are your thoughts on coloring hair while pregnant? Do you have any brands to recommend? What ingredients should we avoid? Thank you! 🙂

    • 9.23.18
      15mins said:

      It’s fine to color! If you’re super worried I’d just use foils, that will keep the product off of your scalp.

  5. 11.16.18
    allison t. said:

    Hi Dr. Christine, thank you very much for going to the lengths you’ve gone to for pregnant women! It’s a whirlwind of new information and your posts have been very helpful.

    I was wondering if you think eyebrow tinting and lash tinting are safe during pregnancy (or maybe 2nd trimester on?). I am blonde and am used to doing both those things. The eyebrow tinting especially, as it does sit on the skin below for the 12-15 min. it takes to tint (and does dye the skin for a day or so, whether done at home or in a salon). I also get lash lifts every now and then so if you know anything about that process any info. would be helpful!

    The product I use to do at-home eyebrow tinting is Nice ‘N Easy Root Touch-up in light brown. Ingredient list:

    Permanent Color Creme: Water, C12-15 Pareth-3, Ammonium Hydroxide, Oleth-10, Dilinoleic Acid, Cocamide MEA, Linoleamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimer Dilinoleate, Steareth-21, Behentrimonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-22, Sodium Sulfate, Fragrance, Erythorbic Acid, Resorcinol, Caramel, P-Phenylenediamine, P-Aminophenol, M-Aminophenol, Sodium Sulfite, Iron Oxides, Mica, N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate, Sodium Metasilicate, EDTA, 1-Naphthol, Sargassum Filipendula Extract, Hypnea Musciformis Extract, Gellidiela Acerosa Extract, Titanium Dioxide. Color Activating

    Lotion: Water, Hydrogen Peroxide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Steareth-21, Laureth-23, Polyquaternium-37, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Etidronic Acid.

    And I believe my local eyelash place uses vegetable dye for lash tinting.

    Any help would be wonderful.

    • 11.17.18
      15mins said:

      I don’t see anything that really stands out to me in those ingredient lists. Hair dying itself is ok while pregnant. I would probably check with you doctor just to make sure. I don’t know anything about lash lifting, sorry!

  6. 2.12.19
    Maria Stocks said:

    Hi Doc,

    I sometimes leave my shampoo/conditioner on my scalp a bit while I do other stuff. I just want to be super extra careful,,, whenever you get a chance, would you advise if the following would be okay?:

    Redken Extreme Shampoo
    Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Coco-Betaine, Glycol Distearate, Sodium Chloride, Dimethicone, Parfum/Fragrance, Cocamide Mipa, Sodium Benzoate, Hexylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Carbomer, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Quaternium-33, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Benzyl Benzoate, Sodium Sarcosinate, Propylene Glycol, Limonene, Benzyl Alcohol, Arginine, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Linalool, Fumaric Acid, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propylsilanetriol, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Edta, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid (D184533/1) Us Pat./Brevet Américain: 6,294,160.

    Redken Extreme Conditioner
    Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Cetyl Esters, Isopropyl Myristate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum/Fragrance, Lauryl Peg/Ppg-18/18 Methicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Citric Acid, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Quaternium-33, Isostearyl Alcohol, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Dodecene, Sodium Sarcosinate, Poloxamer 407, Propylene Glycol, Benzyl Benzoate, Arginine, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Sodium Chloride, Tetrasodium Edta, Potassium Sorbate (D184844/1).

    Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo
    Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Coco-Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycol Distearate, Sodium Chloride, Decyl Glucoside, Polyquaternium-10, Parfum/Fragrance, Amodimethicone, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Propylene Glycol, Peg-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate, Carbomer, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Disodium Edta, Sodium Isethionate, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Tocopherol, Trideceth-6, Benzyl Salicylate, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Limonene, Linalool, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Sarcosinate, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydroxycitronellal, Sodium Acetate, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Arginine, Serine, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Cetrimonium Chlorideglutamic Acid, Benzophenone-4, Sodium Benzoate, Butylene Glycol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Methylisothiazolinone, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Edta, Bambusa Vulgaris Sap Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid (D184886/1).

    Redken Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner
    Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Amodimethicone, Cetyl Esters, Parfum/Fragrance, Cetrimonium Chloride, Dipalmitoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate, Trideceth-5, Phenoxyethanol, Glycerin, Trideceth-6, Benzophenone-4, Trideceth-10, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Butylene Glycol, Benzyl Salicylate, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Limonene, Linalool, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Sarcosinate, Propylene Glycol, Hydroxycitronellal, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Arginine, Serine, 2-Oleamido-1,3- Octadecanediol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Glutamic Acid, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Acetic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Sorbate, Bambusa Vulgaris Sap Extract, Sorbic Acid, Tetrasodium Edta (D184707/1).

    SheaMoisture Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Weightless Shampoo
    Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Juice, Glycerin (Vegetable), Fragrance (Essential Oil Blend), Litchi Chinensis (Lychee) Fruit Extract, Hylocereus Undatus (Dragon Fruit) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Garcinia Livingstonei (African Mangosteen) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter**, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Panthenol, Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Phytate.

    Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Weightless Creme Rinse
    Ingredients: Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Juice, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter**, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Glyceryl Caprylate, Panthenol, Fragrance (Essential Oil Blend), Litchi Chinensis (Lychee) Fruit Extract, Hylocereus Undatus (Dragon) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Garcinia Livingstonei (African Mangosteen) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Glycerin (Vegetable), Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate, Myrciaria Dubia Fruit Extract, Cetrimonium Chloride, Glyceryl Undecylenate.

    • 2.12.19
      15mins said:

      The conditioners are all fine but those shouldn’t go anywhere near your roots anyways. Since you’re letting the shampoo hang out on your scalp for a bit checking the ingredients is likely a good idea, but unfortunately both of the Redken shampoos have Salicylic Acid. The SheaMoisture is ok though.

  7. 2.26.19
    Lyv said:

    I am thinking about highlighting the ends of my hair. At the time, I will be 18 weeks. I haven’t talked to my OB yet, but I would like you to explain me the whys.
    I have extremely long hair, and the product that my hairdresser uses to bleach the hair contains ammonia. I won’t be coloring the roots. However, it takes more or less six hours to dye my hair (from previous experiences). Isn’t it too much time to be near ammonia smell?
    Either way… I just wanted you to confirm, what if was some of your patients asking? I will triple check with my OB before, and I wont do anything that he says I shouldn’t… I just want to understand, because you can find anything online.

    • 2.27.19
      15mins said:

      Coloring your hair in general is fine while pregnant, but that is a really long time! I would think that as long as the area is well ventilated you’re probably ok but if you are worried I’d ask your OB about it

  8. 5.20.19
    Erica said:

    Hi Doc, I hope you can check these two hair products if safe for pregnant from Nature Republic as I leave them on my hair for few minutes. Here are the ingredients:
    Manny Thanks!

    1. Argan Essential Deep Care Hair Mask:
    Purified Water, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Behentrimonium Chloride, Propylene Glycol, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Thuja Occidentalis Leaf Extract, Morus Alba Root Extract, Chrysanthemum Morifolium Flower Extract, Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract, Acorus Calamus Root Extract, Xanthium Strumarium Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Distearyldimonium Chloride, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Dimethiconol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Perfumery, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (200mg), Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil

    2. Argan Essential Deep Care Essence:
    Cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone, peg-10, c12-15 alkyl benzoate, trisiloxane, argania spinosa kernel oil, tocopheryl acetate, silk powder, camellia japonica seed oil, rosa rubiginosa seed oil, oenthera biennis (evening primrose) oil, parfum.

    • 5.22.19
      15mins said:

      You don’t need to worry about hair products. Your hair can’t absorb anything.

  9. 7.11.19
    Maria Stocks said:

    Hi Doc,

    I’m looking for a hair mask to keep my color treated hair vibrant. I know most hair stuff is okay but masks stay on about 5 minutes. Wouod you please advise if these would be okay?

    Redken Color Extend: Outer Tube: Aqua/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Aminopropyl Triethoxysilane, Paraffinum Liquidum/Mineral Oil, Lactic Acid, Dipalmitoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Esters, Cetrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Polyquaternium-6, Phenoxyethanol, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Parfum/Fragrance, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Arginine, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Sodium Sarcosinate, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Sorbate, Tetrasodium Edta (D184755/1).

    Inner Tube: Aqua/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Glycerin, Octyldodecanol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum/Fragrance, Benzoic Acid, Trideceth-6, Poly(Linseed Oil), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Tocopherol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Benzyl Salicylate, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Limonene, Sodium Sarcosinate, Citric Acid, Linalool, Propylene Glycol, Benzyl Alcohol, Arginine, Serine, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Glutamic Acid, Hydroxycitronellal, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Butylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Sodium Chloride, Bht, Tetrasodium Edta, Bambusa Vulgaris Sap Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid (D188912/1).

    Pureology Color Fanatic Instant Deep Conditioning Mask: Aqua / Water / Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Amodimethicone, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Esters, Parfum / Fragrance, Isopropyl Alcohol, Trideceth-6, Olea Europaea Oil / Olive Fruit Oil, Camelina Sativa Oil / Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Xylose, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride, Linalool, Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract / Sunflower Seed Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Geraniol, Melanin.

    Pureology Strength Cure Superfood Treatment Mask: Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycine Soja Oil/Soybean Oil, Behentrimonium Chloride, Parfum/Fragrance, Isopropyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Olea Europaea Oil/Olive Fruit Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Bht, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract/Sunflower Seed Extract, Citric Acid, Caramel, Linalool, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Melanin, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

    Pureology Hydrate Superfood Treatment Mask:
    Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycine Soja Oil/Soybean Oil, Behentrimonium Chloride, Parfum/Fragrance, Isopropyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cocos Nucifera Oil/Coconut Oil, Persea Gratissima Oil/Avocado Oil, Ethylhexyl, Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Bht, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract/Sunflower Seed Extract, Limonene, Citric Acid, Coumarin, Ci 19140/Yellow 5, Ci 14700/Red 4, Melanin, Tocopherol, Pentylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil / Sunflower Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract/Rosemary Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin.

    • 7.12.19
      15mins said:

      Your hair can’t absorb anything, time isn’t a factor. So you still don’t need to worry about it.

  10. 9.5.19
    Ley said:

    Hi,

    I am looking into Medline ReadyBath Rinse-Free Shampoo and Conditioning Caps. I was wondering if the ingredients are safe for pregnancy and nursing? Thanks!!!

    Ingredients:
    Water, Cocamidoproyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Isostearamidoproyl Morpholine Lactate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Simethicone

    • 9.5.19
      15mins said:

      ooks fine

  11. 10.20.19
    Berenice said:

    Hi, good day! I know you mentioned that we shouldn’t worry too much on hair products. I was using Loreal Ever Sleek Keratin Caring Shampoo but I found out that it has salicylic acid. Complete list of ingredients below:

    AQUA / WATER / EAU
    SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATE
    LAURETH-5 CARBOXYLIC ACID
    SODIUM CHLORIDE
    COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE
    GLYCERIN
    PEG-150 DISTEARATE
    PARFUM / FRAGRANCE
    COCONUT ACID
    SODIUM BENZOATE
    SODIUM LAUROYL GLUTAMATE
    POLYQUATERNIUM-10
    SALICYLIC ACID
    HEXYL CINNAMAL
    LINALOOL
    BENZYL SALICYLATE
    BENZYL ALCOHOL
    HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED EXTRACT / SUNFLOWER SEED EXTRACT
    LIMONENE
    CITRONELLOL
    SODIUM HYDROXIDE
    LACTIC ACID FIL CODE D55635/1

    Would you kindly recommend some drugstore brand shampoos and conditioners, just to be safe? Thank you so much!

    • 10.23.19
      15mins said:

      I’ll have to work on a list! There are quite a few out there that are ok.

      • 11.2.19
        Berenice said:

        Thank you so much!❤️

  12. 1.9.20
    Natalie said:

    Hi Doctor,

    I know you’ve said not to worry about hair cate products unless they touch your scalp. I use a leave in conditioner and a tiny bit of it does get on my scalp. Can you please let me know if this is ok to use during pregnancy or should I rather avoid it?

    IT’S A 10 MIRACLE LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER PLUS KERATIN

    Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Propylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Keratin Amino Acids, Cyclopentasiloxane, Fragrance, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Panthenol, Quaternium 80, Silk Amino Acids, Hydroxycitronellal, Benzyl Salicylate, Hydroxyisohexyl 3 Cylcohexene Carboxaldehyde, Butylphenyl Methylpropianal, Linalool, Citronellol, Limonene, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Methychloroisothiazolinone.

    Thank you so much!

    • 1.9.20
      15mins said:

      This has a salicylate that you should avoid. I would just try to keep it further from your scalp 🙂

      • 1.10.20
        Natalie said:

        Thank you so much! I appreciate you do much!

        • 2.10.21
          Shana said:

          Hi Doctor! Thanks for an awesome site! I appreciate it!

          I am commenting in this thread because someone asked about Redken Shampoo and I see that it has Salicylic Acid so that’s a no go.

          But I found another Redken Color Extend Shampoo that is sulfate free. Actual name: Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo

          This is the ingredient list:

          Aqua/Water/Eau, Coco-Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycol Distearate, Sodium Chloride, Decyl Glucoside, Polyquaternium-10, Parfum/Fragrance, Amodimethicone, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Propylene Glycol, Peg-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate, Carbomer, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Disodium Edta, Sodium Isethionate, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Tocopherol, Trideceth-6, Benzyl Salicylate, Potassium Dimethicone Peg-7 Panthenyl Phosphate, Limonene, Linalool, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Sarcosinate, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydroxycitronellal, Sodium Acetate, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Arginine, Serine, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Cetrimonium Chlorideglutamic Acid, Benzophenone-4, Sodium Benzoate, Butylene Glycol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Methylisothiazolinone, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Edta, Bambusa Vulgaris Sap Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid (D184886/1).

          Thanks so much! 🙂

          Hope you are doing well during these times!

          • 2.10.21
            Christine said:

            This one has a salicylate and chemical sunscreen. Ok for nursing but not pregnancy, sorry

      • 3.10.23
        Erica said:

        Hi Doctor,
        I heard that Butylphenyl methylpropional may cause harm to a fetus during pregnancy. Is that true? Thanks

  13. 1.15.20
    Mariana said:

    Hi there, I’m wondering about Kerastase new line Genesis… What do you think about 1) the ampoule cure and 2) the serum – would they be safe during pregnancy? Thank you!!

    1) Genesis Ampoules Cure Anti-Chute Fortifiantes:
    Aqua / water / eau, Alcohol denat, Diaminopyrimidine oxide, Ammonium polyacryloyldimethyl taurate, Aminomethyl propanol, Citric acid, Peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, Piroctone olamine, Caffeine, Arginine, Limonene, Niacinamide, Pyridoxine hcl, Rhamnose, Linalool, Safflower glucoside, Benzyl salicylate, Coumarin, Glycerin, Citral, Benzyl alcohol, Xylitylglucoside, Citronellol, Benzyl benzoate, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Zingiber officinale root extract / ginger root extract, Resveratrol, Tocopherol, Dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate, Bht, Sodium citrate, Parfum / fragrance

    2) Genesis Serum Anti-Chute Fortifiant:
    AQUA / WATER / EAU – ALCOHOL DENAT. – DIAMINOPYRIMIDINE OXIDE – AMMONIUM POLYACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE – AMINOMETHYL PROPANOL – CITRIC ACID – PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL – PIROCTONE OLAMINE – CAFFEINE – ARGININE – LIMONENE – NIACINAMIDE – PYRIDOXINE HCl – LINALOOL – SAFFLOWER GLUCOSIDE – BENZYL SALICYLATE – COUMARIN – CITRAL – BENZYL ALCOHOL – XYLITYLGLUCOSIDE – CITRONELLOL – BENZYL BENZOATE – ANHYDROXYLITOL – XYLITOL – ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROOT EXTRACT / GINGER ROOT EXTRACT – RESVERATROL – TOCOPHEROL – BHT – SODIUM CITRATE – PARFUM / FRAGRANCE

    • 1.17.20
      15mins said:

      Both have salicylates, I would avoid in pregnancy but ok for nursing

  14. 2.17.20
    Natalie said:

    Hi doctor,

    I usually leave my shampoo on my scalp for a bit before rinsing, because I struggle with dandruff (even more so during my pregnancy). Leaving it on seems to be the only thing that helps keep flakes at bay. Currently I use…

    BEACH BABE
    MOISTURIZING SHAMPOO

    Water,Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Polyquaternium-7, Fragrance, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Mineral Oil, Propanediol, Cocoamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycol Distearate, Laureth-4, Cetyl Triethylmonium Diemethicone PEG-8 Succinate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Aminomethyl Propanol, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinine.

    BEACH BABE
    MOISTURIZING CONDITIONER

    Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Fragrance, Polyquaternium-55, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Phytonadione, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, PEG-10 Macadamia Glycerides, PEG-40 Castor Oil, Stearalkonium Chloride, Mineral Oil, Propylene Glycol, Octyldodecanol, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Citric Acid, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone.

    Are there any other drugstore brand shampoos and conditioners that you recommend to use, just so I can be on the safe side?

    • 2.18.20
      15mins said:

      The shampoo is ok, the conditioner has a retinoid, but as long as you’re only applying to your hair it’s fine

      • 2.19.20
        Natalie said:

        Thank you doctor! Are there any other drugstore brand shampoos and conditioners that you recommend to use, just so I can be on the safer side?

        • 2.19.20
          15mins said:

          I’m working on a post!

  15. 6.27.20
    Karen said:

    Hello!

    I have a shampoo I’ve been using throughout my pregnancy that I just realized has retinyl palmitate in it. I don’t typically keep in on my scalp/hair for any length of time. There is none in the accompanying conditioner that I typically leave in longer. Is this shampoo something I should stop using now? Thanks!

    • 6.27.20
      Christine said:

      It’s likely ok as you keep it on such a short period of time, but there’s more on this situation in this post: pregnancy beauty FAQ

      • 7.9.20
        Brenda said:

        Hello! I just realized that when I was 13-18 weeks pregnant I received 2 massages where the lotion had some retinyl palmitate in it (listed as the second last ingredient). Obviously I can’t take it back now and I am currently 38 weeks pregnant, but I was just looking for a bit of reassurance as I’ve done by best to avoid most products and obviously with a massage it’s covering a good amount of my body. Looking for any reassurance on the subject. Thanks in advance.

  16. 7.9.20
    Ashley said:

    Hi Doctor,

    Is hair colouring safe during pregnancy? I am 18 weeks. I want to do root touch up to cover my greys. I use the below brand at home to do root touch up. I consulted my doctor and she said it is safe to colour hair in second and third trimester. What are your thoughts on this?

    Schwarzkopf Igora Royal Permanent Hair Colour Cream:

    Ingredients-
    Aqua (water, Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol-Ammonium Hydroxide, Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-20, Octyldodecanol, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Moringa Pteryqosperma Seed Extract, Glycerin, Sodium, Cerearyl Sulfate, Oleic Acid, Toluence-2.5, Diamine Sulfate, Perfume (Fragrance). Potassium Stearate, Ethanolamine, Resorcinol, Tetrasodium EDTA. Carbomer, Sodium Sulfate, Plyquatenium-39, Potassium Hydroxide, adcorbic Acid, Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Sodium Sulfate, Linalool, Benzoic AcidAminophendil, Citric Acid 77891 (Titanium Dioxide).

    • 7.10.20
      Christine said:

      It’s fine, it should mostly only be on your hair anyways. Just make sure you’re in a well ventilated area.

  17. 7.22.20
    Ashley said:

    Hi Doctor,

    Are below two hair root concealers safe?

    1.SCHWARZKOPF Hair Mascara Dark Brown 16 mL

    Aqua (Water, Eau), Cetyl Alcohol, CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), Ceteareth-20, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Palmitate, Silica, PEG-32, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, VP/VA Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin

    2.SCHWARZKOPF Root Retoucher Black 70 g

    Butane, Alcohol denat., Isobutane, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Oryza Sativa Starch, CI 77499, Isopropyl Myristate, Silica, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Aqua, Propylene Carbonate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Cetrimonium Chloride.

    • 7.24.20
      Christine said:

      Both look fine, though keep in mind that they likely don’t even touch your scalp, only your hair which can’t absorb anything.

  18. 5.26.21
    Nathalie said:

    Hello Christine,

    I want to do root touch up to cover my greys and i am 8 weeks, my doctor says it’s safe but on the internet and people say so many things …
    What do you think about hair colouring during pregnancy?

    Manny thanks!!

    • 5.26.21
      Christine said:

      It’s fine

  19. 5.26.21
    Kata said:

    Hello Doctor!

    is this hair coloring product safe during pregnancy?

    Peg-2 Oleamine. Water (Aqua). Peg-4 Rapeseedamide. Alcohol Denat (Alcohol). Propylene Glycol. Ethanolamine. Oleic Acid. Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein. Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil. Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate. Sodium Metabisulfite. Sodium Erythorbate. p-Phenylenediamine and +/-: 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene. p-Aminophenol. 2-Methylresorcinol. m-Aminophenol. N,N-Bis (2-Hydroxyethyl)-p-Phenylenediamine Sulfate. 2-Amino-4-Hydroxyethylaminoanisole Sulfate. 4-Chlororesorcinol. 2,4-Diaminophenoxyethanol HCL. 1-Hydroxyethyl 4,5-Diamino Pyrazole Sulfate.

    I will use it on the roots and all the hair. can it be used in any week of pregnancy?

    Thank you!!

    • 5.26.21
      Christine said:

      This is fine

  20. 8.12.21
    Emily said:

    Hi! I know you’ve commented a few times here that hair coloring during pregnancy is okay. Do you think that goes for the first trimester as well? I’m at 5 weeks (just found out last week) and have a balayage appointment scheduled for 2 days from now. The stylist usually uses foils and it doesn’t touch my scalp. Thanks so much for all that you do!

    • 8.12.21
      Christine said:

      Yes, it’s fine for the entire pregnancy, and especially if you’re doing balayage and nothing touches! Just make sure you’re in a well ventilated area 🙂

  21. 6.17.23
    Mahtab said:

    Hi Dr. Christine,
    If you are able, could you please review the following shampoos & conditioner for, are they pregnancy safe?
    It’s a10 Miracle Shampoo Plus Keratin: Aqua (Water/ Eau), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamide MEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Fragrance/Parfum, Decyl Glucoside, Keratin Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Di-PPG-2 Myreth-10 Adipate,
    PEG-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate,
    Polyquaternium-10, Polyquaternium-7, Panthenol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)
    Seed Extract, Cinnamidopropyltrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene,
    Carboxaldehyde, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Alpha Isomethyl lonone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone. Contains Behentrimonium Chloride as a “hair conditioning.”
    Miracle Deep Conditioner Plus Keratin: Aqua
    (Water/Eau), Glycerin, Dimethicone,
    Cyclopentasiloxane, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetyl
    Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Methyl
    Gluceth-20, Fragrance/ Parfum, Keratin Amino
    Acids, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Butylene Glycol,
    Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract,
    Dimethiconol, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel
    Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil,
    Beta-Glucan, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed
    Extract, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Retinyl
    Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Camellia Sinensis
    Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice,
    Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydrolyzed Collagen,
    Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-
    Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Butylphenyl
    Methylpropional, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Alpha
    Isomethyl lonone, Methylisothiazolinone.

    • 6.18.23
      Christine said:

      #1 Safe for pregnancy and nursing
      #2 avoid in pregnancy and nursing due to retinoid

  22. 2.21.24
    Roshan said:

    Hi Doctor,

    I wanted to know if the Selsun 2.5% is safe to use. I don’t let it steep on my scalp for too long. I wash it out almost immediately. Still just curious if it’s alright to use.

    Thank you.

    Selsun 2.5% Extra Strength ingredients:

    Medicinal Ingredient: Selenium sulfide 2.5% w/w. Non-Medicinal Ingredients: Aqua, ammonium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, TEA-lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, sodium chloride, magnesium aluminium silicate, panthenol, parfum, cocamide DEA, DMDM hydantoin, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, citric acid, sodium citrate (309-083).

    • 2.21.24
      Christine said:

      Safe for pregnancy and nursing