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Can I breastfeed after hair treatment?

Can I Breastfeed After Hair Treatment?
The question of whether it’s safe to undergo hair treatments while breastfeeding is a common concern among new mothers. Many women wonder if the chemicals used in hair dyes, perms, or straightening treatments could affect their breast milk and, consequently, their nursing babies.
Safety of Hair Treatments While Breastfeeding
According to health experts, it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers to have hair treatments. Research indicates that the chemicals used in hair dyes and other treatments do not significantly enter the bloodstream in amounts that would contaminate breast milk. Therefore, the consensus is that these treatments are unlikely to pose a risk to nursing infants.
Types of Hair Treatments
Mothers can safely engage in various hair treatments, including coloring, curling, and straightening. The key is to ensure that the treatment is applied in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation of fumes, which can be a concern with certain chemical processes.
Precautions to Consider
While the risk is low, some experts recommend taking a few precautions. For instance, if you’re using a hair dye, consider opting for semi-permanent or natural dyes, which may contain fewer harsh chemicals. Additionally, waiting a few hours after treatment before breastfeeding can further reduce any potential exposure, although this is more of a precaution than a necessity.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
As always, it’s wise for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before undergoing any hair treatments. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy hair treatments without significant concern for their nursing babies. By taking simple precautions and consulting with healthcare professionals, mothers can maintain their hair care routines while ensuring the safety of their little ones.

Does hair straightening affect breast milk?

Because these products are not readily absorbed, levels reaching breastmilk would be insignificant if detectable at all. Whilst you are breastfeeding you can: Have your hair coloured, permed, straightened or bleached. Have false nails applied and use nail varnish.

What hair loss treatment is safe while breastfeeding?

Topical minoxidil may be one option. While generally considered safe while breastfeeding, it’s important to tell the healthcare professional you are breastfeeding. The other common medicated hair loss treatment is finasteride, which is not recommended for women.

Does hair dye affect breast milk?

“As hair dye is applied to the hair and not the scalp, [and] if used appropriately, very little, if any, would enter the bloodstream of the lactating person,” says Amy Goh, MSN, Certified Nurse-Midwife. “Therefore, it’s unlikely that hair dye would have any effect on the breastfeeding baby.”

What to avoid during postpartum hair loss?

Treat your hair with care.
Be gentle when washing and combing your hair. Use lower heat settings on blow dryers and styling irons to prevent damage. Avoid tight ponytails and braids that can add tension to your hair and lead to more hair loss.

Can you breastfeed after getting your hair done?

it’s very unlikely that a significant amount of the chemicals used in hair dyes will be passed on through your breast milk. This is because very little enters your bloodstream. In the past, many women have used hair treatments while breastfeeding, with no known negative results. Hope that makes you feel better!

Can you do BBL while breastfeeding?

Hormonal changes during this period can alter fat distribution. These changes may affect the results of a BBL procedure. Surgeons recommend waiting until breastfeeding is complete before scheduling surgery. Ceasing breastfeeding at least two weeks prior to the BBL surgery is crucial.

Is it safe to get hair treatment while pregnant?

Proper working conditions, such as wearing protective gloves, not eating or drinking in the work area, and making sure your work area is well-ventilated are also important to limit exposure to hair treatment chemicals. Overall, hair treatments are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy.

Is it safe to do a Brazilian blowout while breastfeeding?

While there is nothing conclusive, the general wisdom is to not have Brazilian Blowouts while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I retouch my hair while breastfeeding?

Hair treatments
However, the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists states that it is very unlikely that a large amount of the chemicals used would get into the breastmilk because very little goes into the mother’s bloodstream.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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