IS IT safe to color our hair while breastfeeding? Yes, lactating moms can have hair color, rebond or perm, etc. However, it’s best to use colors that have little to no ammonia to avoid very strong chemical smell.
There haven’t been any studies regarding the effect of these hair products to the quality of our breastmilk. So we may still choose to have the baby latch directly AFTER the entire procedure. Again, it’s more of the smell that we would be cautious with.
But for pregnant moms, it is best to consult your OB. There are chemicals that are not advisable for pregnant women like retinoids and paraben.
DIY hair treatment at home
Aside from considering organic and natural products, DIY hair treatment at home is also budget-friendly. This is also helpful to moms and pregnant women who have no time to go out of the house. You may try these one at a time:
1. Apply plant-based oil like virgin coconut oil/ olive oil/ jojoba oil on your hair (not on scalp). Cover with a shower cap, then wrap with a towel for 30 minutes. Rinse out using shampoo of your choice.
2. Mash one piece of avocado and mix an egg. Apply on wet hair for 20 minutes. Rinse. (Do this once or twice a month only.)
3. Beat three egg whites, add two teaspoons of olive oil, and one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Apply on dry hair. Cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes. Rinse using a shampoo of your choice.
4. During bath time, cleanse your hair with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar diluted with 3/4 cup water. Then use moisturizing hair conditioner.
It’s tempting to pamper ourselves because of stress, sleepless nights, and baby blues. However, we must think twice before applying hair products because it might harm our little ones.
(The writer appreciates comments, questions, and story suggestions. Contact her through ara3casas@yahoo.com, @mommyaracasastumuran on Instagram, and subscribe to her Youtube channel www.youtube.com/c/AraCasasTumuran)