Take the poo out of your shampoo. Baby will thank yoo.

Most pregnant women know that what you put in your body is important to the health and well-being of your growing baby. But, do you know that what you put on your body is of equal importance?

When you pick your products for your daily beauty routine, it is important to remember that the chemicals in your hair products pass through your scalp and are absorbed into your body. In fact, your scalp is one of the most porous areas of your body! With a developing or new baby, this is a vital concern. 

Expecting and new moms must remember that everything you eat, apply or make contact with can affect not only you but your growing baby.

"Because some topical ingredients get absorbed into the bloodstream, there are some you want to avoid," notes Leslie Baumann, professor at the University of Miami and author of The Skin Type Solution (Bantam, 2006).

While there are safe options out there, there are two chemical classes that are considered potentially harmful to your baby’s health and development. We've put together quick label lookout guide that gives you the up-to-date knowledge on the chemical ingredients that can put baby at risk. We also know that sometimes labels are a pain to translate. For some great mom-tested products, check out Mom Hair Care Faves. Here, you will find a selection of amazing products including super moisturizing pregnancy shampoo made just for you!...

Note: For moms who plan to breastfeed, continue following the guidelines below until you stop nursing.

Label Look Out
Two chemical classes you want to watch out for: phthalates (sometimes labeled "fragrance") and sulfates.

1. Phthalates
One of the most commonly used chemical families in cosmetics. Phthalates are plasticizers that act as preservatives in your hair care products.

But, phthalates are one of the hair (and skin) care ingredients that the experts tell expectant moms to stay away from. Findings from recent medical studies suggest that phthalates can potentially impact hormones and lead to birth defects. Possible changes to birth outcomes include: birth weight, length of term, fertility (lower sperm production), and anatomical abnormalities. 

If you have been using hair products that have phthalates, don’t panic. The evidence is still inconclusive. But take steps to heed the medical advice and try to find a new hair care line that is phthalate free.

Phthalates on the label
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Benzylbutyl phthalate (BzBP), Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and Di-isononyl phthalate (DINP)
**Phthalates do not have to be listed on the label and can sometimes be “hidden” under fragrance. Look for hair care that is labeled phthalate free.

2. Sulfates (SLS)
A very common chemical in many shampoos, shampoos, detergents, toothpastes and other soapy products (even our car washes!). Sulfates, chemically known as surfactants, are used in each of these products because they are highly effective foaming agents.

However, recently, there has been a huge shift away from sulfates. The shift is occurring for both beauty and health purposes.

For beauty, sulfates “detergent like” qualities actually work a little too well. They remove oil but they also over strip hair of moisture. Many women are moving towards “sulfate free” or “no-poo” shampoos because they like the extra moisture that these shampoos provide.

For health, SLS is absorbed into the bloodstream through the scalp. Once absorbed, one of the main effects of sulfates is to mimic the activity of the hormone Oestrogen. This has many health implications for women including: dropping male fertility (if used during pregnancy or breastfeeding) to increasing female cancers such as breast cancer (where oestrogen levels are known to be involved).

Sulfates on the Label
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)
Mom Hair Care Faves

• Frederic Fekkai Au Naturel Gentle Shampoo
  A great paraben and sulfate free gentle cleanser.
• NINE Naturals
  Specially made for expecting and new moms. A great natural line that improves moisture and shine.
• Intelligent Nutrients
  An excellent organic cleanser that is so pure you can almost eat it!

Comments

[queen of coffee]

good information. Most women don't realize all the toxins and "yucky" stuff (like animal renderings) that are in hair care, make up, and skin care products. Not sure about the ingredients in a product you are using? The Illinois Teratogen Information Service has a free hotline www.fetal-exposure.org. Also, Arbonne International products high-end, medical grade products that are organic, green, toxin free, and pure. Order through a consultant at ronigeva.myarbonne.com

[Ajlouny]

I say skip the baby shampoo and just use a clean soap like dial. It better than taking a chance of the possibility of risk.

[sunsilk philippines]

Well I agree with you there, "it is important to remember that the chemicals in your hair products pass through your scalp and are absorbed into your body." This is the reason why pregnant women should be more careful with their personal hygiene, especially when it comes to the safety of their baby. Anyway, I enjoyed reading your post. Thanks for sharing this post.

-krisha-

[hair accessories]

I'm trying to conceive right now. It's a good thing that I read this post. I'll have to check on the products that I use.
Thank you for posting. Very informative and helpful.