As an expectant mother, you may be wondering if it is safe to get a keratin treatment while pregnant. After all, the health and safety of your unborn baby should always come first!
Fortunately, there has not been enough scientific evidence to conclude that keratin treatments are unsafe for pregnant women.
However, it is important to understand what you should consider before making your decision. Let’s take a look at the science behind keratin treatment in pregnancy.
What is Keratin?
Keratin is a natural protein found in our hair, nails, and skin. It helps give our hair strength and prevents it from becoming brittle or breaking easily.
When undergoing a keratin treatment, this protein is applied directly to the hair shaft by using various chemicals such as formaldehyde and glyoxylic acid which help to break down the bonds between the proteins in our hair.
This allows the product to penetrate deep into the hair strands, leaving them feeling softer and smoother than ever before.
Is keratin treatment pregnancy safe?
The main concern about getting a keratin treatment during pregnancy comes from the potential exposure to formaldehyde and/or glyoxylic acid.
However, most salons have switched to formaldehyde-free formulas so this may no longer be an issue for expecting mothers considering this type of procedure.
Additionally, since these chemicals are applied directly onto the scalp rather than being ingested or inhaled, there is not much risk involved with getting a keratin treatment while pregnant.
Ultimately, it’s best to talk with your doctor before making any decisions regarding your healthcare routine while pregnant.
How Can I Stay Safe?
Although there doesn’t appear to be any research indicating that keratin treatments pose any risk during pregnancy, that doesn’t mean you can’t take extra precautionary steps when considering one for yourself during this time in your life.
Most salons will require that you sign a waiver before receiving any kind of chemical service so make sure you read over everything carefully before agreeing to anything!
Also, be sure to ask questions about their products and processes so that you can feel comfortable knowing exactly what kind of chemicals will be used on your hair during your appointment.
Finally, make sure you stay well-ventilated throughout the process as some of these products can emit strong odors which could potentially cause nausea or dizziness in some people!
Side effects of Keratin Treatment In Pregnancy
1. May Cause Allergic Reactions
One of the most common side effects of keratin treatments is allergic reactions.
The chemicals in the treatment can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, redness, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
2. Can Be Harmful to Pregnant Women
Keratin treatments can also be harmful to pregnant women. The chemicals in the treatment can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, which can put the developing baby at risk.
Additionally, the fumes from the treatment can be inhaled, which can also be harmful to both the mother and the baby.
3. May Cause Birth Defects
There is also a concern that keratin treatments may cause birth defects.
One study found that exposure to formaldehyde, a common chemical used in keratin treatments, may increase the risk of certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects and cleft palate.
However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
4. May Increase the Risk of Cancer
Another potential side effect of keratin treatments is an increased risk of cancer.
Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and exposure to it has been linked to several types of cancer, including leukemia and brain cancer.
5. May Irritate the Skin
Keratin treatments can also irritate the skin, causing redness, swelling, and itchiness.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to discontinue use of the treatment and consult with a healthcare professional.
6. May Cause Respiratory Issues
The fumes from keratin treatments can also cause respiratory issues in some people.
The chemicals in the treatment can irritate the lungs and airways, causing difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
It is important for pregnant women considering getting a keratin treatment to do their research beforehand to determine if they feel comfortable with proceeding with this type of procedure or not.
Although there isn’t much evidence pointing towards any risk associated with getting a keratin treatment while pregnant, it’s always better safe than sorry!
Be sure to talk with your doctor about any concerns you have before scheduling an appointment and remember that taking extra precautionary steps like signing waivers beforehand or staying well-ventilated throughout are important measures you can take to ensure both your and your baby’s safety!
