The pregnancy phase comes with many changes to the body – with several do’s and don’ts, thereby leading to the questions of what to eat, what to use and what to avoid. One of the things many expecting moms would like to find out includes the safe shampoo for pregnancy.
Pregnant moms must be careful when choosing shampoos during pregnancy. It is advisable to make use of safe shampoo for pregnancy that does not contain dangerous or harmful chemicals. However, there is no need to be afraid of using your favorite shampoo when pregnant, this post will serve as a guide on what to look out for. Also, seek advice from your obstetrician before you use any product.
How To Choose A Safe Shampoo For Pregnancy
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When choosing shampoo during pregnancy – you should avoid shampoo with the following chemicals;
Parabens
They are known as hormone (endocrine) disruptors and have also been found with many side effects among which are increased risk of breast cancer, preterm birth, lower birth weight, and skin irritation.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
It is often found in shampoos, bathing soaps, toothpaste, detergents, etc. SLS is the foaming agent found in these products and it can irritate the skin and eyes. It has also been found to cause birth defects and cancer in some cases.
Phthalates
They are used in making hair sprays, shampoos, and hair care products. Phthalates help sustain the fragrances added to the products. Exposure to Phthalates can lead to the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Also, babies exposed to this can have issues developing motor skills.
Phthalates is usually added in the following form;
- DEP (diethyl phthalate)
- DiDP (diisodecyl phthalate)
- DBP (dibutyl phthalate)
- DnHP (di-n-hexyl phthalate)
- DCP (dibutyl phthalates)
- BzBP (benzylbutyl phthalate)
- DiNP (diisononyl phthalate)
Triclosan
It is found in soaps and antibacterial shampoo and has been found to irritate the endocrine and reproductive system in some animal studies. So, it should be avoided during pregnancy.
Safe Shampoo For Pregnancy
The following are safe shampoos for pregnancy, check them out;
Herbal Essence Sulfate-Free Shampoo
It is gentle and specially prepared for color-treated hair. Your hair does not have to be color-treated to use it. It is made without sulfates; cleanses gently and moisturizes color-treated hair.
It contains 87 percent natural origin shampoo and 90 percent natural origin conditioner sourced from natural and botanical sources and with little processing. The Herbal Essence Sulfate-free shampoo is regarded as being free from any harmful and hazardous chemicals.
When buying this product – you get a bottle of shampoo and a bottle of conditioner. So, if you have dry to normal hair – the Herbal Essence Sulfate-free shampoo is the ideal choice.
Pros
- Tested safe and okay without parabens, sulfate, colorants, and paraffin
- Moisturizes and protects
- The multilayered scent of honey, jasmine, and creamy vanilla gives a lasting scent experience
Cons
- It is not recommended for greasy hair
GIOVANNI Eco Chic 50:50 Balanced Shampoo
This is the best shampoo for oily hair and it doesn’t contain ingredients like phthalates, parabens, and sulfates. It is gentle on the hair making it ideal for everyday use. This is achieved by infusing nutrients, vitamins, and proteins into each hair strand – thereby increasing its strength and vitality.
Also, the GIOVANNI shampoo is specially made for color-treated hair, overworked, and over-processed hair. It hydrates the hair, moisturizes hair, balanced pH, locks in hair color, and makes it shine.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly and color-safe
- Adds color with manageability
- Leaves hair clean and balanced pH
- For environmentally stressed and overworked hair
Cons
- It does not come in large bottle sizes
Burt’s Bees Sulfate-Free Shampoo
The Burt’s Bee sulfate shampoo is one of the budget-friendly shampoos in the marketplace without any unsafe ingredients. It helps to revitalize and repair your hair with its pomegranate scent from pomegranate seed oil and Avocado oil.
The Burt’s Bee sulfate-free shampoo is made with 99.6 percent natural ingredients that keep the hair safe and nourished. However, some believe that it serves them well while others believe that it left some residue on their hair after prolonged use.
Pros
- Moderate and pleasant fragrance
- It lathers well
- Results in soft hair
- Good shampoo texture
Cons
- Might not be suitable for oily hair
- It leaves residue on the hair over time
Babo Botanical Moisturizing Plant-Based 2-in-1 Shampoo
If you are searching for a safe shampoo for pregnancy with body wash – the Babo Botanical Moisturizing plant-based 2-in-1 shampoo is the ideal choice. Besides its use by pregnant moms – it is also 100 percent suitable for your baby. It nourishes and soothes the hair, skin, and scalp.
The Oatmilk and the naturally derived candela oil leave the hair soft and soothing scalp. The Babo shampoo is not too foamy and can be used for a bath without fear of any skin irritation. However, because it is also designed for use for the newborn – it might not offer the necessary cleaning, especially when used on thicker hair.
Pros
- Gentle on the hair
- Moderate fragrance
- It is free of soy, gluten, peanut, almond, and walnut
Cons
- It could be pricey
- Leaves your hair dry
- Might be too mild
ATTITUDE Super Leaves Hypoallergenic Shampoo
Looking for a safe shampoo for pregnancy that has the best scent – consider buying the ATTITUDE Super Leaves hypoallergenic shampoo. Though, one person’s choice might be repulsive to another; this safe shampoo for pregnancy is liked by most people because it’s not overpowering.
It is made from safe ingredients like Quinoa protein – which enhances hair manageability and restores hydration. Jojoba – Repairs damage and Moringa extract which detoxifies hair and scalp.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically-tested
- Moderate scent
- Amplifies hair thickness
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- It could be pricey
- Some users have complained that the shampoo did not clean their hair properly.
Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo And Conditioner
The Moroccan Argan oil shampoo is one of the safest shampoos for pregnancy that is made to help hydrate and restore moisture levels of either Keratin or colored treated hair. Besides, it is made with Antioxidants and vitamins that help you to repair and nourish your hair.
The shampoo gives structure to all hair types especially those hairs that are curly, wavy, and thick. Interestingly, it contains vitamin E which penetrates the hair resulting in thicker, stronger, and younger-looking hair
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Good for damaged hair
- Cruelty-free
- Frizz-free shine
- Sulfate and paraben-free
Cons
- It might not soften dry hair
- Quantity is less than the price
- Does not lather with wet hair
AROMATICA Cypress Deep Cleansing Shampoo
Products from Aromatica are often phthalates, sulfates, silicone, vegan, and cruelty-free. So, if you are looking for a natural safe shampoo for pregnancy – the AROMATICA Cypress Deep cleaning shampoo is the ideal choice. It is specially formulated for people with oily hair.
AROMATICA Cypress deep cleansing shampoo has been clinically tested and proven to wash off up to 94 percent of fine particles from the hair and body. Its scent is derived from the combination of cypress, pine, and Eucalyptus trees.
Pros
- Deep cleaning power
- Effective on itchy scalp
- Good for everyday use
- Can be used on oily to normal hair type
Cons
- The zingy feel might not be everyone
Sun Bum Revitalizing Shampoo
The Sun Bum Revitalizing shampoo is also regarded as a safe shampoo for pregnancy because it’s paraben, vegan, gluten, and cruelty-free. The combination of coconut oil, sunflower seed, and banana oil helps it to smoothen any type of hair – even the most difficult hairs.
The regular use of the Sun Bum revitalizing shampoo will help to lock in colors, making the hair look beautiful.
Pros
- Restore lost moisture
- Good for damaged hair
- Reduce tangles
- Good smell
Cons
- Zero lather
- Often leaves hair dry
FAQs
The following are some frequently asked questions about safe shampoo for pregnancy;
1. Which Products Are Safe Shampoos For Pregnancy?
The following are some of the safe shampoos for pregnancy;
- Herbal Essence Sulfate-Free Shampoo
- GIOVANNI Eco Chic 50:50 Balanced Shampoo
- Burt’s Bees Sulfate-Free Shampoo
- Babo Botanical Moisturizing Plant-Based 2-in-1 Shampoo
- ATTITUDE Super Leaves Hypoallergenic Shampoo
- Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo And Conditioner
- AROMATICA Cypress Deep Cleansing Shampoo
- Sun Bum Revitalizing Shampoo
2. Can Shampoo Cause Birth Defects?
Chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate – a popular surfactant present in shampoos have been linked to some birth defects in animal studies. However, other products to be wary of include; parabens, synthetic fragrances (phthalates), and triclosan.
3. Why Does Hair Become More Sensitive During Pregnancy?
It is the scalp and not the hair that becomes more sensitive during pregnancy. However, in some women – pregnancy tends to help make their hair stronger with a better root. The loss of hair often happens during the first half of the pregnancy. If it doesn’t happen – then expect it after birth (the first four months after birth) which gradually fades out.
How to prevent loss of hair during or after pregnancy:
- Do not make use of chemical treatment, especially during the first trimester
- Good diets like fruits and vegetables, seeds, nuts, and protein-rich foods. Also, there is a need to stay hydrated.
- Avoid brushing your hair when wet
- Do not make tight hairstyles like cornrows which pull the hair from the scalp thereby causing breakage.
- Adequate rest will also help to prevent hair loss
4. Is Sulfate-Free Shampoo Better For The Hair?
Yes, it is better for the hair because it aids moisture retention by the scalp, especially for those with damaged and dry hair.
5. Does Shampoo Affect Pregnancy?
Putting some shampoo on your hair and washing it off after a minute doesn’t pose any threat, right? Well, research has proven that to be wrong.
Some of the ingredients found in the shampoo like the sodium lauryl sulfate have been linked to birth defects in animals. Other ingredients to be wary of are parabens, synthetic fragrances, and triclosan.
So, since the hair follicle offers an entry point to your skin – these chemicals could find their way into your body and cause some damage, so, the need for a safe shampoo for pregnancy.
Final Thoughts
Cleanliness of the hair and body is important whether you are pregnant or not. But during pregnancy, special attention must be given not only to the things that are eaten but also to those things used externally on the body – which includes the shampoo
Besides using safe shampoo for pregnancy, it is important to have a good diet plan, avoid the use of chemicals, always have enough time to rest, and maintain good hygiene.
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