11 Best Expert-Reviewed Pregnancy-Safe Hair Colors Of 2024
While pregnancy can increase the risk of allergic reactions, these dyes can help.
Alexandro Vasquez has been a hairdresser since 1997 and has worked in various countries, including Brazil, Spain, Ireland, Indonesia, Singapore, and UAE. His experience spans salon brands such as Toni&Guy, Aveda, and Leekaja. He specializes in traveling and training hair salon staff around the world.
Read full bio of Alexandro Vasquez
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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Coloring your hair during pregnancy may not be the smartest thing to do as the chemicals in hair dye might not always be safe. However, if you still want to do it, you should consult your OBGYN. It would help if you looked for the best pregnancy-safe hair colors to color your mane on their recommendation. While most women consider pregnancy one of the best phases of their lives, others aren’t that excited about it. Regardless of that, women still want to look their best during pregnancy. Because when clothes don’t fit you and the bump just keeps on growing, the last thing you can experiment with your look is your hair. For all the women looking to experiment with their pregnancy look, here is a list of the top pregnancy-safe hair colors with nourishing ingredients and low chemical content to choose from.
In This Article
Top 11 Hair Colors To Use During Pregnancy
1. Best No-Drip Formula:Garnier Olia Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color – Light Natural Auburn
This beautiful shade from Garnier Olia is a safe choice for pregnant women who wish to color their hair. Infused with a 60% blend of natural flower oils, this hair product guarantees a natural sheen to the hair. It is ammonia-free, making it safe to use during pregnancy, and also saves you from harsh smells. Olia comes in 34 different shades for you to choose the right one for your hair type. Its unique no-drip velvet cream formula makes it easy to apply. Be it a touch-up, a permanent color, a temporary stop, or just nourishment, Garnier Olia is a one-stop solution. Multiple reviewers recommend this natural hair dye for those who have sensitive hair and scalp.
Pros
- Unique no-drip formula
- 60% natural flower oil
- Ammonia-free
- Available in 34 different shades
- 100% gray coverage
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- It contains sulfate.
"This dye is gentle on my sensitive scalp. Its no-drip creamy formula is easy to apply to my hair. My hair looks hydrated and feels silky smooth after applying this dye. I like that it does not have any harsh ammonia scent. It also never causes residues."
2. Best Cruelty-Free:Naturtint Permanent Hair Color – Natural Chestnut
The Naturtint Permanent Hair Color, is tailor-made for you if you are looking for a product that is safe to use when pregnant and also makes you feel like you have made an ethically good choice as it is vegan and cruelty-free. It is devoid of harsh chemicals like ammonia, resorcinol, and other toxic ingredients. The inclusion of natural, plant-based ingredients like oleic acid from olives and meadowfoam seed oil helps smooth your hair by nourishing and moisturizing it and works as a hair treatment. All 32 color variants of the plant-based hair dye offer up to 100% gray coverage, leaving your hair hydrated and visibly healthy.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Ammonia-free
- No harsh chemicals
- Nourishing ingredients
- Available in 32 different shades
Cons
- It contains sulfates.
"This dye looks natural on my hair. It has no weird scent and is free of harsh chemicals. I like that it covers my grays seamlessly. The formula nourishes my hair and lends it a soft feel. It does not feel greasy on my tresses. The best part is that it leaves no residues."
Pro TipUse Naturtint’s Color Care Collection, which includes shampoo, conditioner, and a CC cream leave-in conditioner that maintains the pH balance and protects your colored hair.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 5,959 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best Vegan:Hannah Natural 100% Pure Henna Powder
Most pregnant women are petrified of coloring their hair due to the effects of hair dye. If you too are on the same boat, have no worries because the solution to your problem is Hannah Henna Powder. It is a 100% natural product, made of pure Henna leaves (lawsonia inermis). It is free of chemicals and provides the right nourishment to your hair. One box of Hannah Henna Powder contains 2 50 gram packs of henna, a pair of gloves, a shower cap, and an instruction leaflet. This henna powder is an excellent conditioner and will make your hair stronger from within and shinier on the outside. It also promotes hair growth. After applying the henna powder to your hair, you can also coat it off with lemon juice for a more vibrant color.
Pros
- Vegan
- 100% natural
- No chemicals used
- Easy application
- Provides vibrant results
- Acts as a conditioner
- Safe for repeated use
Cons
- Must be mixed and left overnight
Quick TipWash your hair a day before, with a clarifying shampoo, to get rid of any product build-up for the henna to dye your hair.
4. Best Conditioning Formula:ARCTIC FOX Semi-Permanent Hair Color
The Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color is every bit playful, refreshing, and suitable for to-be mommies who love to have fun and keep it stylish! The highly-pigmented tones add vibrancy to the overall look and also mask brassy and uneven blonde tones. Unlike conventional chemical-based hair colors, this formula contains no harmful ingredients, making it absolutely safe for pregnant women. Well, it doesn’t stop here, this long-lasting hair dye is quite gentle on tresses and helps to condition it and restore its vibrancy. Plus, it emits a sweet scent that keeps your locks fresh all day long!
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Stain-proof
- Peroxide-free
- Ammonia-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- PPD-free
- Silicone-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not suitable for gray coverage
5. Best Nourishing Formula:ONC NATURALCOLORS Healthier Permanent Hair Color – Hazelnut Brown
The ONC Natural Colors is a permanent hair dye. It is a safe hair color to buy if you are looking for hair care and color in a single bottle. It is ammonia-free, making it safe for pregnant women. Enriched with natural ingredients like argan oil, aloe vera, orange extracts, coconut oil and vitamins, it makes your hair shiny and soft and minimizes hair damage. It is devoid of sulfates, gluten, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, making it gentle on the scalp and hair. A box of ONC Natural Colors Hair Dye consists of gloves, a bonnet, a brush, and a bowl apart from the color, developer, and instruction leaflet. Have fun coloring your hair while also providing restorative care to your strands!
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Organic ingredients used
- Non-GMO
- Gentle on sensitive scalp
Cons
- Might not provide 100% gray coverage
"This hair dye nourishes my strands and protects them from external damage. It coats my gray strands with a beautiful hazelnut color. My hair feels soft and looks smooth. It imparts a polished effect to my unruly tresses. The best part is that it also boosts my hair growth."
Pro TipUse a heat cap to cover your hair after applying the product. The heat from your scalp opens up the cuticles for color absorption.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 1,395 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
6. Best Long-Lasting:RAW Demi-Permanent Hair Color – Crimson Red
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This demi-permanent hair color from RAW will have all eyes on your hair with the glossy sheen it provides. It is a long-lasting product that stays up to 3-6 weeks and nearly 45 washes. The absence of ammonia and other harsh chemicals makes it safe for pregnant women and boosts self-confidence. The application of the hair color is completely hassle-free. Just squeeze the color from the bottle, apply to clean, dry hair, wait for 15 minutes, and rinse it off. Get salon-like hair at home in no time with this cruelty-free, veggie-based product.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Cruelty-free
- No harsh chemicals used
- Long-lasting color upto 45 washes
- Suitable for all hair types
- No need to mix activators
Cons
- Might cause staining around the hairline.
"This vibrant red dye looks awesome on my tresses. It does not need an activator, and I find applying it easy to my tresses. It has a thick consistency, so controlled application is necessary. It does not stain my hairline or irritate my scalp."
7. Best For Quick Application:Bigen Powder Hair Color – Dark Brown
Bigen’s Dark Brown hair color comes in a powder form and is permanent. It is a hassle-free product because it does not need hydrogen peroxide for activation. Simply mix it with water and apply it to your hair and wash it off after 20-30 minutes. One box of Bigen Powder Hair Color typically contains 6 water-soluble packs of 6 ml each. The water-based formula can be used by pregnant women too, as it is ammonia-free. The non-harmful hair color provides excellent gray coverage and lasts a long time. Ensure that you conduct a patch test 48 hours before application.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Needs only water for activation
- Long-lasting
- Covers gray hair effectively
- Quick application
- No scalp irritation
Cons
- Might leave a stubborn stain on the skin and other surfaces.
"This hair dye is gentle on my sensitive hair. It coats my strands with a brown hue that looks natural. It does not damage my natural hair color. The dye stays put for days, and reapplication is not necessary. However, it may dry out the hair slightly. So, I apply a hair moisturizer later."
8. Best For All Hair Types:John Frieda Colour Refreshing Gloss – Deep Espresso Brown
Do you need to refresh your hair color but can’t visit the salon anytime soon? Fret not, as we bring to you the John Frieda Color Refreshing Gloss. This product will do the job well if you want to restore a deep espresso brown color on your brunette tresses, eliminating reddish-orange tones. The color application is also easy. Apply it after shampooing and conditioning, and in 3 minutes your hair will have vibrant color like you’ve just stepped out of a salon. It is a non-permanent hair color, suitable for touch-ups between salon visits. It is ammonia and peroxide-free, making it safe for baby and mom. Reviewers love the final result of this hair color as it makes it appear glossy while toning down the brassiness in the hair.
Pros
- Ammonia and peroxide-free
- Easy in-shower application
- Quick results
- Safe for all hair types
- Salon-quality finish at home
Cons
- Might stain surfaces and skin
- Might have to use multiple times to get desired results
"This dye makes my hair look fresh and salon-treated. It eliminates reddish tones from my hair and lends it a glossy finish. It is also easy to apply and has a pleasant fragrance."
9. Best Natural Formula:Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel – Light Chestnut
The Herbatint haircolor gel is a permanent hair color. It is absolutely safe to be used by moms-to-be, as it is free from ammonia, resorcinol, and other harsh chemicals. It is a clinically and dermatologically tested product, which is cruelty-free and vegan. Made with the extracts of 8 herbal ingredients like aloe vera, walnut hull powder, meadowfoam, and rhubarb amongst others, its gentle, odor-free formulation colors hair beautifully, enhances natural hair color and strengthens the hair to make it naturally shiny.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Clinically and dermatologically tested
- Suitable for all hair types
- Made from natural ingredients
Cons
- The shade might be darker than expected.
"My hair looks healthy after coloring it with this dye. The light chestnut color looks gorgeous on my hair. It complements my skin tone. It softens and nourishes my hair and offers full coverage. The product is also devoid of any chemical scent."
10. Best Temporary Color:Tish And Snooky’s Manic Semi-Permanent Hair Color Cream – Mermaid
Looking for something out of the ordinary? This neon, cool ocean blue hair color with a slight green undertone shines under a black light if used on the lightest shade of hair. It is sans ammonia and other harsh chemicals, making it safe for pregnant women. It is a semi-permanent hair color that fades in 4-6 weeks. It is a ready-to-use cream-based hair color that is easy to apply. With a wide range of shades to choose from, one can use the hair color as is or mix it with another shade to get a different, new shade. However, to achieve a more vibrant color, it is advisable to use this color on bleached/lightened hair. Don’t forget to conduct patch and strand tests to avoid any potential allergic reactions. So, go ahead and check out some Amazon reviews to learn more.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- 49+ attractive shades
- Cream based and easy to use
- Fades in 4-6 weeks
Cons
- Might stain the skin and other surfaces.
"This Manic Panic hair dye adds moisture to my dull tresses and lifts its look instantly. I like its lasting power. The formula spreads easily on my tresses and colors them beautifully. I like that the dye does not make my hair greasy. It also never irritates my skin or causes redness."
11. Best Keratin-Infused:Revlon ColorSilk Haircolor – Medium Ash Brown
The Revlon ColorSilk Hair Color comes with a 3D Color Gel Technology that offers a long-lasting high-definition shine. It is enhanced with keratin, which provides smoothness to the hair. It has no ammonia, so it is safe for pregnant women and is suitable for all hair types. The fade-resistant color promises 100% gray coverage and adds depth, sheen, and luster to the hair. It also provides UV defense, which helps in maintaining the glossiness after coloring your tresses.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Keratin infused
- High definition shine
- Good gray coverage
- UV protection
Cons
- The color might fade faster if exposed to direct sunlight frequently.
"This ash-brown color looks great on my hair. It defines my hair and makes it look shiny. The keratin-infused formula strengthens my hair and adds volume. It also neutralizes my brassy strands. The color lasts for a long time as well."
Hairdresser, Alexandro Vasquez, says, “Yes, nowadays we have many products that are safe during pregnancy but I would recommend a person to do a patch test first before any use because even if the colour is ammonia free the person could have an allergy from other substances inside the products and if possible ask a doctor too to learn more about what you can or can’t do during your pregnancy. Remember health comes first always.”
Now that you have browsed through the list of the 11 best hair colors that are safe for pregnant women, let’s take a look at some important factors you should consider before buying one.
Things To Remember While Buying A Pregnancy-Safe Hair Color
How to use hair dye safely during pregnancy?
Firstly, consult a doctor before using any product. Furthermore, choose a hair color that is devoid of harsh chemicals and ammonia. You could also opt for products with non-toxic formulations and natural ingredients. Consult a medical professional and do not forget to do a patch test on the forearm or the back of the ear to make sure the product suits you.
Hair Dye Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
While choosing a hair color or, in fact, any personal care product for moms-to-be, it is important to keep in mind not to choose ones that may contain harsh chemicals. One can choose products that do not contain the following ingredients:
Ammonia – Ammonia, an alkaline chemical, raises the pH levels of hair while coloring and lightens the natural pigment of the hair making it re-colorable. Ammonia emits a strong odor that isn’t comfortable for inhalation, especially for pregnant women.
Parabens – These are common preservatives that can be found in hair products and cosmetics. Parabens are capable of mimicking estrogen which may cause breast cancer. It is easily absorbed through the scalp.
PPD – PPD or para-phenylenediamine is a chemical that is mostly used in darker shades to make the color long-lasting. It may cause mild to severe skin allergies.
Resorcinol – Resorcinol works with other chemicals to provide a permanent finish to the hair color. It poses potential health hazards like thyroid dysfunction, and harmful effects on the central nervous system, and adrenal glands to name a few.
Sulfates – A harsh chemical that is commonly used as a cleaning agent, it creates a lathering effect to effectively remove oils and dirt. Sulfates generally tend to strip the hair of its natural oils, hence making it dry, fragile and brittle.
Hydrogen peroxide – Hydrogen peroxide is generally used to lighten the hair. It enters the hair cuticles, therefore inflicting damage that leads to frizzy hair with split ends and breakage.
Toluene – It is a toxic chemical found mostly in hair dyes and nail products. It is not safe as it may cause dizziness, headaches, cracked skin, and other severe side effects like respiratory complications and reproductive damage.
The Safest Way To Use Hair Dyes During Pregnancy
Avoid applying hair dyes to the roots. If you are coloring your hair at home, make sure you read the instruction leaflet thoroughly. Use gloves while coloring your hair. Apply a layer of petroleum jelly across the hairline to prevent staining. Color the hair in a well-ventilated room. Avoid leaving the color on the hair for longer than the time period mentioned. These are some of the things that can be done to ensure safety.
Natural Ways To Dye Hair Safely During Pregnancy
Traditional hair dyes like henna, beetroot, coffee, vegetable dyes, and other such products can be adapted to color hair naturally during pregnancy. Additionally, always consult a healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Infographic: Precautions To Take When Coloring Your Hair During Pregnancy
Dyeing your hair during pregnancy is not a problem anymore. With the best pregnancy-safe dyes, you can achieve luscious, colorful tresses in no time without affecting your baby’s health. However, taking certain precautions while opting for the versatile coloring options is important to ensure safe coloring results. Check out the infographic below for more information.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Pregnancy brings a lot of changes in your mood and body. But if you love to color your hair, pregnancy should not stop you from doing so. A wide range of hair colors is available on the market apart from your regular henna hair dyes. These dyes color the hair safely during pregnancy. Try the Garnier Olia Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color to boast a natural shine, choose the Naturtint Permanent Hair Color for its natural and plant-based ingredients, or the ARCTIC FOX Semi-Permanent Hair Color to condition your hair. These hair colors are free of ammonia and other harmful chemicals, and some also have amazing hair benefits. In addition, some hair colors are loaded with natural ingredients to boost your hair health. Invest in hair colors that provide great grey coverage and are safe for your hair. If you are still not convinced whether you should color your hair during pregnancy, check out various reviews on different e-commerce sites or talk to hair stylists before making your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to dye my hair while pregnant?
Mostly, yes. Coloring the hair once or twice during pregnancy exposes it to less amount of hair color (that may contain chemicals), which would not inflict any damage.
Is ammonia-free hair color safe for pregnancy?
Yes. Ammonia has a strong odor, which might make it uncomfortable for a pregnant woman owing to a heightened sense of smell during pregnancy.
How many times can you dye your hair when pregnant?
Starting after the first trimester, you can color your hair at an interval of 3-4 weeks using products that are free of harsh chemicals and ammonia. The more natural ingredients in the hair color, the better.
Does hair color affect pregnancy hormones?
Yes, hair colors do affect pregnancy hormones. Dyes, bleaches, and relaxes can lower the level of estrogen and progesterone hormones.
Is it safe to use henna during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to use henna with no added chemicals during pregnancy. Consult your dermatologist before using henna if you have sensitive skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Medha Deb, the author of this article, is a hair care enthusiast who loves keeping up with the latest products from different brands. She has gone through several user reviews online and created a list of pregnancy-safe hair colors you can try. These hair colors are cruelty-free and made of natural ingredients that provide excellent gray coverage and are long-lasting.
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