Hair Dyes

Should I avoid them? No. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), because very little dye is absorbed through the skin, dying your hair is "most likely safe" during pregnancy, despite what doctors in years past may have advised. That's good news for many expectant women — coloring your hair can be a great little confidence boost when everything else going on in your body feels so out of your control.

Having said that, though, very few studies have closely examined the many different kinds of hair treatments and their potential effects on a fetus. What we do know indicates that hair treatments are most likely safe.

What are the risks, if any, to my baby? None that are currently known.

What can I do about it? If you're still concerned, ask your doctor about natural, non-chemical dyes that could give you the little makeover you may need without the added worry. Also, having your hair highlighted (rather than dyed) uses far less chemicals.