8 Ways To Take Care Of Your Hair During Pregnancy
By: Priyanka Maheshwari Wed, 06 Sept 2023 11:15:03
Surprisingly, there are numerous recommendations for maintaining hair health during pregnancy. Pregnancy is an extraordinary phase in a woman's life, marked by significant bodily transformations as she prepares to nurture the developing fetus. Most of these changes are attributed to hormonal fluctuations occurring during this period, which can also impact your usual hair growth cycles.
These hormonal shifts might result in your hair appearing more voluminous and lustrous, or it may become excessively dry, coarse, or frizzy. Some women might even experience notable hair loss if they neglect the importance of natural hair care during pregnancy.
Generally, you can restore your hair's vitality within six months after childbirth through proper care and a balanced diet that includes nutrients promoting healthy hair during pregnancy. However, safeguarding your well-being, skin, and hair throughout the nine months of pregnancy is essential. Continue reading to explore further insights into caring for your hair during pregnancy!
# Go For A Hair Massage
A wonderful way to care for your hair during pregnancy while simultaneously enjoying some relaxation is by treating yourself to a soothing hair massage. Massaging your scalp with oil not only enhances hair thickness but also promotes better blood circulation, potentially stimulating hair growth.
Consider applying oil to your hair a minimum of three to four times each week. Opt for natural hair oils that can provide much-needed nourishment, such as olive, coconut, and almond oils. Gently warm the oil, ensuring it's not too hot but comfortably warm. Then, using your fingertips, apply the oil in small circular motions, exerting gentle pressure as you massage your scalp. This scalp massage can enhance blood flow and assist in preventing hair loss during pregnancy. Additionally, you may incorporate essential oils into your pregnancy hair care routine, such as geranium, lavender, and Roman chamomile, which are considered safe. However, it's advisable to exercise caution and seek medical advice before including them in your hair care regimen.
This practice will fortify your hair roots and reduce the risk of hair shedding. For added benefits, consider wrapping a warm towel around your head during the process.
# Shampoo And Condition
Ensure that you shampoo your hair at least once or twice a week using a gentle shampoo. Every time you wash your hair, be sure to apply conditioner. Give extra care to the hair tips to prevent dryness or split ends. When it comes to curly hair during pregnancy, consider using leave-in or natural conditioners.
As your pregnancy advances, the task of washing your hair can become increasingly challenging. Don't hesitate to seek assistance from your partner for this task.
# Avoid Coloring Your Hair
It is advisable to refrain from coloring your hair while pregnant. Research indicates that the use of hair dyes may elevate the risk of low birth weight, neuroblastoma, and leukemia in the unborn child. However, another study suggests that using safe hair care products during pregnancy on three to four occasions is not a cause for concern and does not increase the likelihood of adverse effects on the baby.
To minimize potential damage to your hair, it's essential to adhere to proper safety measures when coloring your hair during pregnancy. Nevertheless, since certain hair colors and dyes can provoke allergies or infections, it's advisable to avoid them altogether for the sake of safe hair care during pregnancy. For pregnancy-friendly hair coloring alternatives, consider organic and plant-based options like henna and semi-permanent dyes. Additionally, don't forget to explore DIY hair masks specifically designed for pregnant women, as they contain ingredients known to be safe for use during pregnancy, which can help maintain the health of your color-treated hair.
# Avoid Combing Wet Hair
Refrain from combing your hair while it's wet. Allow your hair to air dry naturally or use a hair dryer on a medium heat setting. When your hair is dry, use a wide-toothed comb for detangling. This practice can effectively reduce the risk of hair loss during pregnancy.
For those dealing with frizzy hair during pregnancy, consider using a round bristle metal comb, as it helps minimize static during the combing process. When it comes to straight hair during pregnancy, resist the urge to comb it when it's wet to prevent breakage, even though it may be tempting.
# Go For Regular Hair Trims
Your hair undergoes various transformations during pregnancy, resulting in changes in texture and thickness. It's advisable to schedule regular hair trims to prevent the occurrence of split or frayed ends. Incorporating regular trimming into your pregnancy hair care routine is a wise choice. Moreover, trying out a new hairstyle can be an excellent mood booster!
Following your trim, consider opting for protective pregnancy hairstyles such as loose buns and braids to keep your hair low-maintenance and healthy.
# Understand Your Hair Type
Hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact the nature of your hair. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with your evolving hair type during this period.
Select suitable hair care products designed for your specific hair type during pregnancy. This choice will provide essential nourishment to your hair, reducing its susceptibility to damage and shedding.
Consider getting a stylish haircut that complements your changing hair type, or simply uplifts your mood!
# Follow A Balanced Diet
Every meal you consume at this stage plays a crucial role in nurturing your baby and providing your body with the necessary strength to cope with these changes. Maintaining a well-balanced diet is essential for the nourishment of your hair during pregnancy.
Incorporate a variety of foods into your daily diet, including milk, fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, lentils, grains, dried fruits, and similar nutritious ingredients. It's advisable to consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable pregnancy hair care diet for your specific needs. Additionally, remember to obtain a list of foods to avoid during pregnancy from your healthcare provider.
# Relax
Stress stands as a primary contributor to hair loss during pregnancy. The fluctuations in hormones and mood swings can adversely affect the condition of your hair.
Engage in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress. Consider taking a leisurely, extended bath, setting a tranquil ambiance with scented candles, listening to calming music, practicing meditation or yoga, allowing yourself some extra sleep, treating yourself to a soothing head massage at a salon, or enjoying a bit of retail therapy.