Ask Our Expert - Risks of Hair Dye during Pregnancy

May 16, 2008

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Specializing in pregnancy and birth.


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Ask Dr. Greenfield Risks of Hair Dye during Pregnancy

QUESTION


Dear Dr. Greenfield, Although my understanding is that there is no direct link between hair dye and pregnancy, to be on the safe side, how long should I wait after dying my hair (to its natural color, so I don't have to do it again for the remainder of the pregnancy), to try to conceive? — Anxious to Start Trying in MA

ANSWER	May 18, 2001


Dear Anxious to Start Trying, The concern about exposures like hair dye is that there may be absorption of chemicals into the bloodstream at the time of use. As you said, it isn't known if there is any real risk of hair dye to a developing fetus. Most chemicals are cleared from your bloodstream fairly quickly. While no one can give you data about timing and safety, if you want to be maximally cautious, just avoid dying your hair once you may have conceived. For more information, check out our article on beauty treatments in pregnancy. — by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

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