I always have a feeling when my clients are expecting a baby. Most are consistent with appointment scheduling, and because my schedule books a few months out, the obvious giveaway is when a chronic, consistent scheduler suddenly pushes the appointment a month or so later and throws off the natural cadence. I usually clock the change silently, and then patiently wait for the inevitable text or phone call with the happy news. This scenario has been replayed more times in my career than I can count.
When I finally got that call from my longtime client Sophie, to say I was thrilled was an understatement. I mean, we have been through it all in our relationship as colorist and client. From hair rehab, to planning her perfect wedding day color, it’s been such a joy to experience so many life milestones together. And there is nothing I take more seriously than caring for my client’s hair color while they are expecting.
When the pregnancy secret is shared, we embark on a sacred, deeper journey of trust that involves keeping them safe and using the most natural methods and products available. To hear more about my thoughts on all things hair health and pregnancy, head to the blog where I break it all the way down, and stay tuned as we follow along with Sophie’s hair health during this special time. Wishing you good hair health, in all seasons of life. - kadi xx
Hair Health During Pregnancy
Pregnancy undeniably affects hair health as hormonal changes, particularly estrogen, impact the hair growth cycles. Blood circulation changes and nutrient shifts also impact hair changes during pregnancy.
Changes that may occur in hair health during pregnancy
• Increased Oiliness or Dryness: Hormonal changes can affect sebum oil, which can either shift the hair towards increased dryness or greasiness.
• Texture Changes: Hair texture may shift temporarily during pregnancy - although, some have noticed texture changes remain postpartum.
• Scalp Issues: Scalp sensitivities, dryness, and itchiness can creep in during pregnancy.
• Hair Loss + Hair Brittleness: While hair loss isn’t as common during pregnancy as it is postpartum, it can still happen, particularly in the first trimester. You may notice some thinning around the crown, more strands falling out in the shower, or even patchiness. As nutrients shift towards the baby, you can start to notice an increase in hair brittleness as well.
Coloring Your Hair in Pregnancy
• Be Mindful about Appointment Cadence: I encourage my clients to wait till their second trimester (around week 13) to color their hair. I try to be mindful during these appointments and work to build natural dimension so they can go as long as possible between appointments.
• Environment is Key: You may develop some sensitivities during pregnancy, so it’s important to be in a well-ventilated area - which is a given at our tranquil, outdoor Atelier.
• Technique + Product: Balayage is always off the scalp, so it’s always a more gentle choice for pregnant clients. For those who come in for grey coverage, at Highbrow Hippie we always only use a peroxide-free, ammonia-free, oil-based color, pregnant or not. I also use a gentle semi-permanent that gives clients just enough coverage to blend up to 90 percent of greys. My advice with pregnant clients needing grey coverage is to pick your battles and err on the side of caution.
Hair Health Postpartum
• Be Gentle: Postpartum hair can be fragile, so try to be as gentle as possible with your hair. Avoid harsh tools and brushes, use soft elastics or scrunchies, and avoid constricting hairstyles. Be especially careful around the hairline, where postpartum hair loss occurs first.
• Nutrition: Continue to work with your doctor to support your nutrition and supplement routine postpartum - imbalances can instigate more loss and hair health issues, so this is an important piece all around. Also, hydration is key in postpartum. It helps nourish the hair and prevent an increase in hair loss and brittleness.
• Limit Heat Exposure: I always encourage my postpartum clients to limit heat exposure and go easy on the blow drying and hair styling. It helps protect the hair from added damage as it’s trying to recover through postpartum.
• Choose Products Wisely: Postpartum is an extremely vulnerable time when it comes to hair health. Make sure you’re using clean products and if possible, try to incorporate a low-maintenance hair health routine - regularly utilizing a hair mask, or using a lightweight oil to hydrate and protect the hair shaft. This is why we created Highbrow Hippie Haircare and Wellness as an internal and external support system. The Essential Wellbeing Complex is safe to use, along with your prenatal, and helps to fortify hair health from the inside out. The Root Replenish targets scalp health, as this is a key component for hair health support postpartum. It includes plant-based ingredients that support scalp and hair regeneration, making it a gentle but effective choice for anyone postpartum.
