Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How soon can I color my hair after giving birth?

How soon can I color my hair after giving birth?

Timing for Hair Coloring After Birth
For new mothers eager to refresh their look, the question of when it’s safe to color hair after giving birth is a common concern. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, several factors can influence the timing and safety of hair dyeing postpartum.
General Recommendations
Most experts suggest that it is generally safe to dye your hair after giving birth, but the timing can vary based on individual circumstances. Many women choose to wait at least four to six weeks after delivery before applying hair dye. This waiting period allows the body to recover from childbirth and helps to stabilize hormonal fluctuations that can affect hair texture and color absorption.
Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
If you are breastfeeding, you might wonder if hair dye could affect your baby. Fortunately, research indicates that the chemicals in hair dye are unlikely to harm a breastfeeding infant. However, it is advisable to take certain precautions. For instance, using semi-permanent dyes or opting for highlights can minimize direct contact with the scalp and reduce the risk of chemical absorption.
Hormonal Changes and Hair Health
Postpartum hormonal changes can lead to hair loss or changes in hair texture, which might affect how hair dye interacts with your hair. Some women experience increased sensitivity in their scalp during this time, making it essential to choose gentle, ammonia-free products if you decide to color your hair.
Consulting with Professionals
Before making any decisions, it’s wise to consult with a professional hairstylist who can provide personalized advice based on your hair type and condition. They can recommend the best products and techniques to ensure a safe and satisfying coloring experience.
In summary, while you can typically color your hair four to six weeks after giving birth, factors such as breastfeeding and hormonal changes should be considered. Taking the right precautions and consulting with a professional can help ensure that your hair coloring experience is both safe and enjoyable.

Can I dye my hair if I have a newborn?

Safety: Since it’s unlikely for hair dye or bleach to be absorbed through a healthy scalp, it is generally thought to be safe to color hair during pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding. When pregnant, you for sure want to be in a well ventilated space when coloring your hair.

Can a newborn be in a hair salon?

Whether or not you are going for a beauty treatment that involves chemicals or strong fragrances or even a haircut, your baby must not accompany you.

When does postpartum hair loss begin?

Postpartum hair loss is a common condition that occurs about three months after childbirth and can last up to six months. It’s a normal part of pregnancy and is only temporary. For most people, your hair will grow back to its original fullness.

Will dying my hair affect breastfeeding?

Fortunately, there’s no evidence at this point to suggest that hair dye will get into your breast milk if you use it as directed. So, on balance, it seems highly unlikely that it would pose a risk to your baby. “You can safely color your hair if you’re breastfeeding,” states Dr. Zanotti.

Can moms’ hair color change after birth?

Yes, your hair color can change after having a baby due to hormones.

How long after giving birth can you wash your hair?

You may shower, bathe or wash your hair at any time after the birth of your baby. During your first six weeks, avoid strenuous work. You may choose to limit visits with family and friends during the first two weeks, as it may cause undue fatigue for you and could also be detrimental to your baby’s health.

Can hair dye affect your baby?

Most hair dyes contain chemicals, but your scalp doesn’t absorb much of the hair dye, especially if you have a healthy scalp. You might decide to wait until after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy to dye your hair, when the risk of chemical substances harming the baby is lower.

Can the smell of hair dye affect my baby?

My answer has always been the same, there is no known harm. Some women worry about it because of the dye’s smell. Well, some of the most toxic chemicals are odorless so we can’t really go by the smell when it comes to toxicity.

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.

Leave a Comment