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Is bleaching hair safe while breastfeeding?

The Safety of Bleaching Hair While Breastfeeding
The question of whether it is safe to bleach hair while breastfeeding has sparked considerable discussion among new mothers. As many women seek to maintain their personal grooming routines during this transformative period, concerns about the potential effects of hair treatments on their infants are paramount.
Understanding the Risks
Bleaching hair involves the use of strong chemicals, primarily hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, which can raise concerns about their absorption into the bloodstream and subsequent transfer through breast milk. While the amount of these chemicals that might enter breast milk is generally considered to be minimal, the potential for any exposure can be unsettling for breastfeeding mothers. According to experts, most commercial hair dyes and bleaches contain various toxic substances that could pose risks, albeit in very small quantities.
Expert Opinions
Healthcare professionals often advise caution. The consensus is that while occasional use of hair dye or bleach may not pose significant risks, it is essential to consider the ingredients involved. Some studies suggest that the chemicals in hair treatments can be absorbed by the body, leading to potential exposure through breast milk. However, the actual risk to the breastfeeding infant remains a topic of debate, with many experts indicating that the levels of chemicals passed through breast milk are likely negligible.
Practical Considerations
For mothers contemplating hair bleaching, several practical steps can mitigate potential risks. First, choosing products that are free from harsh chemicals, such as ammonia, can be a safer option. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation during the bleaching process can help minimize inhalation of fumes, which is particularly important for both the mother and the baby.
Moreover, timing can play a crucial role. Many mothers opt to wait until their baby is a bit older and their immune system is more developed before undergoing such treatments. This approach can provide peace of mind, allowing mothers to enjoy their beauty routines without undue worry about their baby’s health.
Conclusion
In summary, while bleaching hair during breastfeeding is not outright prohibited, it is advisable for mothers to proceed with caution. Consulting with healthcare providers for personalized advice is always recommended, as they can provide guidance based on individual health circumstances. Ultimately, the decision should balance personal desires with the well-being of the breastfeeding infant, ensuring that both mother and child remain healthy and happy.

Can bleaching your hair harm your baby?

Although there’s no categorical evidence to suggest hair dye or bleach is harmful to the mother or fetus at any point during pregnancy, you may want to exercise extra diligence by holding off for the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy because crucial fetal development happens during this time.

Is it safe to bleach hair when breastfeeding?

You can bleach your hair while breastfeeding whether it’s done in one go or gradually via bleach baths. Yhere is limited research out there but the general consensus is that the chemicals in the hair colourant or bleach do not make it into your breastmilk.

Is bleaching hair bad for baby?

Bleaching isn’t necessarily more dangerous than dyeing a darker color; both can be done relatively safely, as long as the bleach isn’t sitting on your scalp and being absorbed.”

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Is it bad to bleach hair postpartum?

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 I do highlights while breastfeeding?

As per experts, dyeing your hair while breastfeeding is safe because the chemicals included in the hair products are mild and they do not get absorbed to enter the bloodstream.

Can anything be passed through breast milk?

Three viruses (CMV, HIV, and HTLV-I) frequently cause infection or disease as a result of breast-milk transmission.

Does hair dye go into breast milk?

There is no possible way that dyeing your hair could affect your baby or your milk.

What can’t you do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

  • Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
  • Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
  • Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
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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