As a breastfeeding mom, you may be wondering, Can I still color my hair? Let's be honest, this is an important question...
You're covered in milk, you've barely slept, and you could use something -- anything -- to feel a bit more like yourself. The good news? You can absolutely treat yourself to some fresh color with no guilt! Keep reading for how to monitor your use of hair dye while avoiding potential risks.
Self-Care While Breastfeeding
Taking care of yourself while you are breastfeeding isn't just a luxury, it's essential. Between your breastfeeding baby being constantly attached to you and the roller coaster of changing hormones, self-care is crucial for your mental health. If coloring your hair is part of what makes you feel more like YOU, go for it. Or, if you're just wanting some excitement in your life, it's a great way to get out of the house and lift your spirits!
Let's face it though...in those early days, we're lucky if we get dressed before noon, if at all. If you want to check out some cute breastfeeding-friendly tops and postpartum-friendly bottoms, look no further than my Amazon Storefront. These are my go-to options when I need to feel a bit put-together even when I'm caring for my newborn and chasing around my other kiddos.
The Science: Can I Color My Hair While Breastfeeding?
So, the question of the day: Can I color my hair while I am breastfeeding? My answer for you is ABSOLUTELY! The scientific evidence points to hair dye being a safe choice for breastfeeding moms. The American Academy of Pediatrics confirms that there is no evidence that hair dye affects your breastmilk.
How does this work?
Well, when you apply color to your hair, it doesn't reach your bloodstream, and thus your breastfed baby. The chemicals in hair dye would need to penetrate through your skin, into your bloodstream, and then into your breast milk. That's a pretty intense journey for hair dye to make.
According to Dr. Mara Padilla Evangelista-Huber, a dermatologist and breastfeeding mom, hair dye chemicals do not absorb into the blood enough to impact your milk. So, unless you have an open skin condition or wound on your scalp (which would probably make hair dye application painful anyway), there is not a significant amount of chemicals from the hair dye to pose a risk to your baby.
Thinking of getting keratin treatments or using temporary hair dyes? The same data applies.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also weighs in on the issue stating that although there are not significant studies that look at getting hair treatments while breastfeeding, when used properly, it would be unlikely that large amounts of hair dye chemicals would enter breastmilk. If you have concerns, they recommend talking to your health provider, as it is always the best option! So, while there is little research out there on breastfeeding and hair coloring, it is generally considered safe.
So, head to the hair salon mama, and get yourself some fancy salon services without a worry! If you're bringing your newborn baby with you or coloring your hair at home, make sure you are in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves when handling hair color, especially if your dye has a strong smell. If you're interested in avoiding chemical exposures in general, there are some plant-based dyes on the market that are free of chemical dyes, which some might consider to be safer alternatives. But, that's a personal choice!
What About Pregnancy and Hair Dye?
Maybe you considered this same question during pregnancy, or maybe you know of some new parents who are curious. Here's what to keep in mind: the safety of dyeing hair while pregnant is similar to while breastfeeding. Most experts say it is safe, especially after the first trimester. Again, there is little research on pregnant and breastfeeding women for obvious reasons, but the safety of hair dyes is generally supported by the available data.
If you are still feeling apprehensive and looking for alternatives, consider natural dyes or treatments without toxic chemicals like ammonia. These will minimize chemical exposure while still giving you that fresh, fabulous new look! Some women benefit from these more natural hair dyes if they have particularly sensitive skin.
Another option for pregnant women if you're concerned is to go for different types of hair treatment like single process coloring, simple highlights, or balayage, all of which focus more on the hair shaft and less on your scalp.
Feeling Your Best is Always a Good Idea!
Breastfeeding takes a toll on moms no matter how you approach it - not just physically, but emotionally. Sometimes an act of self-care like getting your hair done is all it takes to make a difference in how you feel. It's a good idea to prioritize yourself every once in a while. If that means splurging on a babysitter for a couple of hours to make that trip to the salon, do it!
Aside from your hair, another way to feel your best without even getting out of the house is to focus on your skin. I have a whole skincare routine that helps me feel refreshed even when life is chaotic. I can take a few minutes to treat myself every day and feel ready for anything! I may be waking up at 2am to feed my baby, but at least my skin is looking gorgeous when I'm doing it!
This is my basic skincare routine, it has proven to be a great stepping stone into the face care world. Coming from someone who went from zero to full routine, this has been excellent! Looking for more sustainable and cleaner options, see below!
If you're heading back to work soon and looking for some other ways to feel your best, check out my podcast episode Sarah Wells + Back to Work. Sarah is the genius behind stylish products for pumping moms that are both cute and functional. Use my affiliate code MYBREASTFRIEND15 for a discount at her shop!
Final Thoughts: Can I Color My Hair While Breastfeeding?
Whether you're in the mood for a fun, vibrant change, wanting to cover a gray hair or two, or just hoping to feel a bit more like yourself with root touch-ups, make that appointment, mama. The safety of hair dyes has been backed by experts, so you don't need to worry. Motherhood is full of sacrifices - your hair doesn't need to be one of them! So, as long as you have a healthy scalp and proper ventilation, you should be fine to treat yourself while still caring for your baby's health needs. And while you're at it, remember that any form of self-care that you can fit into your daily routine is worth it! Curious about other taboo topics during breastfeeding, like alcohol consumption? See this blog post for more info!
