Pregnancy-Safe Shampoos
During pregnancy, expectant mothers prioritize the health and well-being of their growing baby above all else. Every decision, from dietary choices to skincare routines, is meticulously considered to create the safest and most nurturing environment possible.
However, one aspect that may be overlooked is the selection of hair care products, particularly shampoo, during pregnancy. It’s important to understand the significance of using pregnancy-safe shampoos, as certain synthetic chemicals commonly found in conventional products could potentially pose risks to both the expectant mother and her developing baby. Therefore, navigating through the myriad of options and deciphering reliable information regarding product safety becomes paramount in ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.
During pregnancy, women experience numerous bodily changes, prompting a heightened awareness of the substances they expose themselves to, including those present in everyday products like shampoo. The hair follicles, small cavities or pockets in the skin where hair originates, can absorb shampoo ingredients, which may eventually enter your bloodstream.
Conventional shampoos frequently incorporate synthetic chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Although these compounds fulfill essential roles such as product preservation and lather creation, their presence has been linked to adverse health effects. Particularly during pregnancy, these chemicals may pose risks by potentially disrupting hormonal balance, raising concerns regarding both fetal development and maternal well-being.
With countless shampoo brands and formulations available on the market, finding reliable information about their safety during pregnancy can be challenging. Many products claim to be natural or organic, but without clear labeling and transparent ingredient lists, it’s challenging for expectant mothers to make informed choices. In this guide to pregnancy-safe shampoo, we’ll provide you with comprehensive information to help you make the most informed decision.
What Makes a Shampoo Pregnancy Safe?
Pregnancy-safe shampoos are formulated with ingredients that pose minimal risk to the health of expectant mothers and their babies. To identify these products, it’s essential to understand which ingredients to avoid and how to recognize safe and natural alternatives.
During pregnancy, it’s advisable to avoid certain ingredients often present in conventional shampoos. These include parabens, synthetic fragrances (phthalates), sulfates, and triclosan, which have been associated with potential risks to both maternal and fetal health.
Before we get into specific ingredients, it’s essential to highlight concerning research findings regarding sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). Studies have indicated that SLES might contain traces of substances associated with cancer and birth defects, emphasizing the importance of informed choices in personal care product selection, especially during pregnancy.
Depending on the manufacturing processes, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) can become contaminated with ethylene oxide, a compound classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a known or possible human carcinogen. Ethylene oxide has also been linked to potential harm to the nervous system and labeled a potential developmental toxicant by the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), further underscoring the importance of cautious consideration when selecting personal care products, particularly during pregnancy.
Furthermore, a study by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) observed delayed ossification and reduced fetal weight in mice exposed to high concentrations of topically applied SLES.
When considering specific ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), it’s important to note its potential effects. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate can irritate the scalp, skin, and eyes, which could be problematic during pregnancy due to increased sensitivity. While some blogs suggest a link between Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and birth defects, scientific evidence supporting this claim is lacking. Our focus on identifying unsafe pregnancy ingredients led us to exclude Sodium Lauryl Sulfate from our list of potentially harmful substances. Although recognized as a skin irritant, there’s insufficient research to definitively classify this ingredient as unsafe during pregnancy. For added peace of mind, you may consider choosing a shampoo that is sulfate-free.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, personal care products have been found to contain combinations of endocrine disruptors, such as parabens, phthalates, fragrances, and more, which may not be fully disclosed on product labels. Exposure to these toxins has been linked to various health issues, including infertility and miscarriage, as well as adverse obstetric outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Additionally, it has been associated with neurodevelopmental delays like autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as increased risks of adult and childhood cancer.
A research paper published in the Environmental Research Journal revealed that parabens have the capability to permeate the placenta and influence testosterone levels. Parabens, are preservatives that mimic estrogen in the body and have been linked to reproductive and developmental disorders.
Phthalates, often used to enhance fragrance, continue to build up in our bodies over time, causing endocrine (hormone) disruption that may interfere with fetal development.
Triclosan, an antibacterial agent, is commonly found in various over-the-counter soaps, shampoos, and beauty products. This chemical has the ability to mimic hormones, potentially interfering with the normal development of the reproductive system in fetuses and newborns.
The extent to which skincare products are absorbed into the bloodstream depends on various factors, including ingredient molecule size and application area. Assessing the absorption of ingredients like sodium laureth sulfate, triclosan, and parabens, particularly in rinse-off products like shampoo during pregnancy, remains challenging due to limited research. Some “Clean Beauty” brands claim 60% of what you put on your skin gets absorbed into your bloodstream.
However, we do see this more as a marketing gimmick. This might be the case for certain ingredients applied to certain areas of your body, but a generalization is incorrect when it comes to skincare. There are so many factors to consider, such as exposure length, molecule size, dermal absorption of the anatomical region, plus the dilation of your blood vessels during pregnancy, as mentioned by Dr. Rogers in our previous blog on skincare to avoid while pregnant. On top of that, there can be so-called penetration enhancers added to beauty products used to deliver active ingredients to the skin, which could lead to higher absorption.
Research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggests a link between maternal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in hair cosmetics during early pregnancy and an increased risk of hypospadias in offspring.
In summary, determining the safety of specific ingredients during pregnancy can be challenging due to variations in products and application methods. If you prefer to err on the side of caution and are searching for that 100% little bean-approved pregnancy-safe shampoo, consider avoiding products containing the mentioned ingredients and opt for ones labeled as sulfate-free.
When selecting pregnancy-safe shampoos,use our simple, user-friendly pregnancy-safe ingredient checker, available on both IOS and Android platforms. This tool ensures that your chosen shampoo is free from potentially harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, triclosan, or sodium laureth sulfate, commonly found in shampoos. Also, check out our latest blog on vitamin c serum for pregnancy for more valuable information.
Pregnancy can bring about heightened sensitivity to scents and allergens. Opting for hypoallergenic and scent-free shampoos can help prevent skin irritation and allergic reactions, providing expectant mothers with peace of mind. These formulations are designed to be gentle on the scalp and skin, making them suitable for use throughout pregnancy.
Features of Pregnancy-Safe Shampoos
When selecting pregnancy-safe shampoos, several features indicate that a product is suitable for expectant mothers.
Consider shampoos formulated with natural and organic ingredients, free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides. These formulations are gentle on the scalp and skin, minimizing the risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
Opt for shampoos with little to no scent, as strong fragrances may trigger nausea and discomfort during pregnancy. Alternatively, choose products with mild, natural scents derived from essential oils or botanical extracts.
Is it good to wash hair during pregnancy?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe and advisable to wash your hair during pregnancy. In fact, maintaining good hygiene, including washing your hair regularly, is important for overall health and well-being during pregnancy. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can occasionally alter hair texture and oil levels, potentially leading to discomfort. Washing your hair as necessary can alleviate these concerns and promote a sense of comfort.
Ensure that the shampoo is free of potentially harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, triclosan, and sodium laureth sulfate. These ingredients can pose risks to maternal and fetal health and are best avoided during pregnancy.
Recommendations for Pregnancy-Safe Shampoos and Conditioners
Navigating the sea of hair care products can be daunting, especially when searching for pregnancy-safe shampoo. Fortunately, there are brands and products specifically designed with expectant mothers in mind. Conducting thorough research, reading user reviews, and seeking recommendations from healthcare professionals can help when choosing the best shampoo. At Little Bean, we’re dedicated to simplifying your journey by offering curated recommendations tailored for your peace of mind and ultimate convenience.
Which shampoos are safe during pregnancy?
Several brands offer pregnancy-safe shampoos and conditioners formulated with gentle, nourishing ingredients. Avalon, Babo Botanicals, Rahua, and Vanicream, are among the top choices for expectant mothers seeking safe and effective hair care products.
You can find many pregnancy-safe shampoos for every hair type at online retailers such as Amazon, by carefully checking the ingredient list using our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker.
Alternatively, Credo is a trusted retailer in the clean beauty industry, known for curating the best shampoos free from harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, triclosan, and sodium laureth sulfate. With a commitment to transparency, Credo maintains a comprehensive ‘dirty list‘ of ingredients that are rigorously excluded from their product offerings, ensuring utmost safety and efficacy.
Please note that while Credo is renowned for its commitment to clean beauty, not all of their products are Little Bean approved. Some formulations may contain ingredients like retinol or varying concentrations of salicylic acid. While these ingredients are often considered clean, they may not be entirely safe for use during pregnancy due to uncertain effects.
You can also find pregnancy-safe shampoo at online retailers, such as Amazon, using our pregnancy-safe scanner to ensure product safety and effectiveness. Simply upload the ingredient list of any product, and our app will analyze it to determine if it may contain potentially harmful ingredients during pregnancy.
Another helpful tip: when using conditioner, focus application primarily on the ends of your hair rather than the roots. By doing so, you can minimize the risk of product absorption through the hair follicles.
Top Four Pregnancy-Safe Shampoos & Conditioners
Here are some of Little Bean-approved best shampoo products on the market for every hair type based on the best user reviews and feedback.
- Avalon Organics Therapy Thickening Shampoo
- Price Range: $
- Pros: Gently cleanses and nourishes fine, thinning hair to help build volume, good value. Customers mention that it works really well, smells nice, and that it makes their hair look fuller and shinier.
- Cons: Some customers have reported that the product lacks moisturization and is drying. Opinions are mixed on the effect on hair and frizz.
- Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Shampoo & Wash
- Price Range: $$
- Pros: Hypoallergenic formula, EWG verified, enriched with organic ingredients like Shea butter, calendula & aloe vera, gentle on sensitive skin. Sulfate free.
- Cons: May not lather as much as conventional shampoos
- Rahua Scalp Exfoliating Shampoo
- Price Range: $$-$$$
- Pros: Rainforest-grown beauty. Plant-based ingredients, nice scalp exfoliator that helps with flaky scalp
- Cons: Doesn’t seem to work great for fine hair type.
- Vanicream pH Balanced Shampoo
- Price Range: $
- Pros: Short simple ingredient list, good for sensitive scalps, sulfate-free, good value, dermatologist tested Customers like the quality and performance of the shampoo that doesn’t irritate their skin.
- Cons: Some say it leaves their hair feeling dry.
These sulfate-free shampoos are all great options during pregnancy.
Additionally, one question often arises:
Are Kevin Murphy products safe during pregnancy?
The answer greatly depends on the specific product you choose. We’ve meticulously evaluated the ingredient lists of their various shampoos tailored to different hair types, utilizing our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker. Unfortunately, there are some formulations that did not meet our approval.
- Hydrate Me Wash: Contains retinoids (Retinyl Palmitate)Plumping Wash: Contains Fragrance and Benzyl Salicylate
- Blonde Angel Wash: Contains Benzophenon-4
- Stimulate-me wash: Contains Camphor
- Balancing wash: contains Benzyl Salicylate
- Young Again Wash: Contains Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate
- Smooth Again wash: Contains Benzophenone-4
Although fragrance appears in the ingredient list of most of their products, it’s important to note their commitment to the ‘five free promise,’ which excludes phthalates from formulations. While fragrance is detected as the only potential concern, as it lacks phthalates, we classify it as safe for pregnancy according to our assessment.
- Plumping wash: A thickening shampoo designed to nourish and restore, promoting thicker and stronger hair.
- Scalp Spa Wash: Ideal for soothing and cleansing the scalp, suitable for all hair types.
- Maxi Wash: A detox shampoo formulated to eliminate the buildup of unwanted products and chemicals from the hair.
- Everlasting Color Wash: This color-protecting shampoo features pH sealing technology to help lock in color.
- Killer curls wash: Enriched with oat milk, this shampoo gently cleanses while retaining moisture, enhancing texture for healthy, shiny curls.
In conclusion, the journey of pregnancy is a time of heightened awareness and care, extending to every aspect of life, including hair care. The significance of using pregnancy-safe shampoos cannot be overstated, as expectant mothers prioritize the health and well-being of themselves and their growing babies.
Conventional shampoos often contain synthetic chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates, which have been associated with adverse health effects. These chemicals can potentially disrupt hormonal balance, raising concerns about fetal development and maternal health. Understanding the ingredients to avoid and how to recognize safe alternatives is crucial in making informed choices during pregnancy.
Navigating the vast array of hair care products can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and resources, expectant mothers can confidently select pregnancy-safe sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners suitable for their hair type and scalp. Choosing gentle and nourishing options can help maintain healthy hair without compromising on safety.
Online retailers provide convenient access to pregnancy-safe shampoos, with the added assurance of using pregnancy-safe scanners to verify product safety and effectiveness. Additionally, retailers specializing in clean beauty products offer curated selections of shampoos free from harmful ingredients, catering to the specific needs of pregnant women.
Ultimately, the goal is to prioritize the health and safety of both mother and baby while maintaining beautiful and healthy hair. By choosing pregnancy-safe sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, expectant mothers can nurture themselves and their growing families with confidence and peace of mind throughout this special journey.
Sources:
Reducing Prenatal Exposure to Toxic Environmental Agents | ACOG
Ethylene Oxide | U.S Department of Health and Human Services
Parabens |Breast Cancer Prevention Partners
FDA Bans Triclosan & 18 Other Antibacterial Soap Ingredients | Dr. Axe
Skin Penetration | Science Direct
Dirty List content section | Credo Beauty
HEALTHY HAIR CARE WITH A CONSCIENCE | Kevin Murphy
