Beauty treatments during pregnancy – what every expectant mother should know

Pregnancy and beauty treatments

Pregnancy is a special time during which the body undergoes significant changes. Hormonal and physiological changes can affect the skin, hair, nails and overall wellbeing.

Many expectant mothers want to continue their usual beauty routine and ask which treatments are suitable during pregnancy.

Can you colour your hair? Should fillers and Botox be postponed? Which facials can help pregnancy-related skin concerns, and which treatments should be avoided?

Pregnancy does not mean abandoning all beauty treatments, but the wellbeing of both mother and developing baby must be considered.

This article reviews commonly requested treatments and explains which are generally suitable, which require prior consultation and which should be postponed.

Colouring hair during pregnancy

Questions about colouring or toning hair are among those most often asked of hairdressers and midwives. Although avoiding hair dye was once recommended, current studies have not associated normal hair colouring with increased risks to fetal development or congenital abnormalities. Studies have likewise found no association with miscarriage, premature birth or a higher incidence of birth defects.

The chemicals in hair dyes primarily contact the scalp, and only a minimal amount is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. Normal use of hair dye is not generally considered a health risk.

Sensitivity to smells may increase during pregnancy, so choose a well-ventilated salon and minimise exposure to fumes.

Facials during pregnancy

Pregnancy can change the skin and worsen acne, pigmentation, dryness or increased oiliness. Most superficial, non-invasive facials are generally regarded as suitable during pregnancy when appropriate ingredients are used and aggressive treatments are avoided.

Classic facials and manual cleansing

A classic facial that includes cleansing, moisturising, soothing masks and, when needed, manual removal of comedones or blocked pores can generally be performed throughout pregnancy. Research has not shown superficial cleansing or comedone extraction to pose a risk to mother or baby. The skin may nevertheless be more sensitive and become irritated more easily.

Acid peels during pregnancy

Gentler acids, including AHAs such as glycolic, lactic, azelaic and mandelic acid, are generally considered suitable in low concentrations. They gently exfoliate, improve texture and reduce skin concerns. Higher-concentration peels may also be performed by a specialist who selects the right acid and provides treatment and home-care guidance.

Device-based facials during pregnancy

Suitability depends not merely on the device but on its effect and the goal of treatment. Superficial device-based facials are generally preferred during pregnancy, such as ultrasonic cleansing intended to remove dead cells, excess oil and impurities from the surface.

Comfort must also be considered. From around the twentieth week, lying flat on the back for a long time can cause discomfort, dizziness, faintness or shortness of breath because the enlarged uterus can press on the inferior vena cava. A semi-reclined position is therefore recommended for facials.

Self-tanning products during pregnancy

Many women want to maintain a tanned appearance while avoiding excessive sun exposure and tanning beds. The literature generally regards self-tanning creams, mousses and gels as low-risk options during pregnancy.

The principal active ingredient in most self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the outermost layer of the skin.

Spray tanning calls for greater caution because the active substance may be inhaled. Sensitivity to smell and taste can also increase during pregnancy, so a mask should be used to protect the nose and mouth during application.

Remember that self-tanners usually do not provide UV protection. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen remains essential.

Invasive treatments during pregnancy

Invasive beauty treatments include injectable procedures such as fillers, biostimulators and botulinum toxin.

Although recent studies have not indicated that accidental exposure to certain injectable treatments necessarily harms the fetus, safety data in pregnant patients remain limited for most procedures. Elective invasive aesthetic treatments should therefore be avoided during pregnancy.

A useful practical principle is that if a procedure is performed solely to improve appearance and postponing it will not affect health, waiting until breastfeeding has ended is the prudent choice.

Hair removal during pregnancy

Hormonal changes can affect hair growth during pregnancy. Shaving, waxing and depilatory creams are generally permitted, while greater caution is recommended with IPL and laser hair removal.

IPL and laser hair removal may be less effective during pregnancy because hair-growth cycles change. The skin is also more sensitive and susceptible to pigmentation changes.