When the protection of your unborn child is your priority, which it should be, it’s time to rethink the skincare and hair care products you use. In this article, I’m going to review the best shampoo for pregnancy. Cause it’s highly advisable to avoid harsh chemicals that are added to the regular ones.
During pregnancy, hair gets thicker and more voluminous. It’s because of all those extra hormones your body is producing. So an inevitable change in the shape of the hair follicle is only expected. This also means an oilier scalp. At such times, you have no idea how much a good shampoo can help.
And here’s one more thing. It’s not just your skin that becomes too sensitive. Your olfactory senses also get easily affected. So it’s better to use a fragrance-free shampoo and conditioner. In that case, I have the most suitable options for you below.
Best Shampoo for Pregnancy – Top 10 Choices
#1 PURA D'OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo
Can you expect this hair loss shampoo to be a game-changer during pregnancy? If the answer were no, I wouldn’t have even mentioned the product in my reviews. Let alone rating it as my top choice.
The first thing that caught my attention is the inclusion of DHT blockers. And that too 17 of them! What DHT blockers do is offer the most natural and herbal nourishment. So the shampoo does indeed nourish your hair follicles by using essential nutrients. Unquestionably, it’s a fortified and gentle formula.
What else is in here? Powerful natural ingredients like biotin. Along with different types of botanical extracts for promoting healthy hair. Irrespective of whether you’re pregnant or not!
For application, all you have to do is use the glass dropper. This particular component is a high-quality one. So you don’t have to worry about the thing not working after a few uses. The manufacturer has made sure of that.
And I don’t need to tell you that it’s a total game-changer for those dealing with hair loss as well. If you use it every day consistently, you can look forward to a drastic increase in the volume of your hair. And, obviously, you can say goodbye to your hair loss.
#2 Nine Naturals Citrus + Mint Nourishing Pregnancy Shampoo
Trust me for what I’m about to say. Your pregnancy routine is certainly incomplete. Without such an all-natural, safe hair care product. You can liven up your dull and grumpy hair with the help of the bright ingredients present in here. There’s soothing peppermint, lime, and lemon. And no sulfate (1)!
If you thought that was the end of the list of ingredients, you’re wrong. Nine Naturals has also added shea butter and jojoba seed oil (organic) to the mix. Together, they boost shine plus seal moisture. And lastly, there’s Vitamin B5 for strengthening your hair. And also for preventing split-ends.
Feel free to use this shampoo whenever. Meaning before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and after pregnancy. It’s a gentle formula created for daily use. No matter your hair type or the fact that you’ve colored your hair.
But it’s particularly useful during your baby-carrying for 9 months. Due to the soothing and relaxing citrus plus mint scent. It helps with fighting fatigue and nausea. Just make sure you rinse it off properly. As the shampoo is adamant on not leaving your scalp very easily.
#3 Whamisa Organic Seeds Hair Shampoo
You’re highly likely to love this shampoo. Not only because it’s the safest to use when pregnant. But also because this gentle formula is suitable for dry hair along with normal hair. It doesn’t leave the scalp itchy is what I mean. No matter how sensitive it is!
There are quite impressive natural ingredients in here. Such as Hordeum Vulgare seed extract and Aloe Maculata leaf extract. Along with a fermented skincare ingredient called Glycine Soja. Fermented substances like this one are very special you know. Cause they come with a higher level of nutrients and antioxidants. Along with peptides and amino acids!
The shampoo has the power to deeply moisturize the scalp and strengthen the hair. On top of that, the certifications this product has earned are quite remarkable. The manufacturing process is in keeping with health and personal hygiene standards. Plus, it doesn’t even contain any toxic chemicals. Or the ability to harm the agriculture and environment!
The scent is herbal and slightly medicinal, but not in an unpleasant way. Needless to say, this shampoo makes sure your pregnancy scalp gets a makeover. That means no more having to deal with excess oil.
#4 Majestic Pure Rosemary Shampoo
What’s so special about rosemary you might be wondering, right? Did you know that rosemary essential oil is quite a popular ingredient in hair care products? Thanks to its anti-inflammatory nature that does wonders to the scalp and hair. Isn’t that reason enough to want to buy this Majestic Pure creation?
Apart from rosemary, there are other natural ingredients added too. These do nothing but provide hair nourishment. During pregnancy, the hair follicles change shape. So your scalp demands the use of a shampoo to make those follicles feel normal again.
Is it safe to wash the hair with this shampoo on a daily basis? Is the shampoo suitable for colored hair or any type of hair? YES and YES. What’s also worth noting is that the product is not animal-tested.
Now I won’t deny that the herbal rosemary scent does seem a bit overwhelming. But I think you might grow accustomed to it. Given just how silky and soft your hair looks and feels after washing it with this shampoo. Even the volume noticeably increases.
#5 TNTN MOM'S - Biotin shampoo for Pregnant women - Hair Growth & Thickening Shampoo
Is this all-natural shampoo safe for pregnancy? The product name says so. But can you actually believe that? Yes, definitely. This scalp and hair cleanser contains exotic fruit extracts along with botanical oils. These go a long way when it comes to moisturizing both your hair and scalp.
And the ingredients are not just randomly picked. Companies like TNTN choose only high-quality stuff. That is known to protect, hydrate, and moisturize your skin barrier. So don’t think that the shampoo has cheap quality ingredients. There’ll be no such damage to your hair in the long run.
Along the same lines, I think you would also like to know what’s not packed in here. The answer is parabens, sulfates, alcohol, silicones, phenoxyethanol, and the like. Don’t even expect to find any artificial colors or fragrances. Animal testing hasn’t been done either.
So it’s obvious that the shampoo is safe for you and your baby growing inside you. The fruit extracts and botanicals do an excellent job of keeping your hair strong. Right when hormonal changes are making them weak!
But before you decide to go for it, understand one thing very clearly. Conditioning your hair post-wash is very important. As it might help with getting rid of tangled hair caused by this shampoo.
#6 Pure Biology Premium RevivaHair Hair Growth Shampoo
I personally like it quite a lot due to the long list of natural ingredients. This certified hair care shampoo by Pure biology is formulated using only botanical components. That, no doubt, thoroughly cleanses the scalp and hair. Albeit in the gentlest manner!
So what is this long list of natural ingredients? Biotin, Saw Palmetto, Green Tea Leaf and Grapefruit Seed extracts. This offers the amazing shiny effect, strengthening damaged and thinning hair.
Then there’s also coconut oil and rosemary oil included as part of the ingredients. These essential oils are responsible for one thing only, to enhance hair growth.
It’s a shampoo that leaves your hair strong and soft. Something that you crave when pregnant! You’ll also notice a drastic reduction in hair loss. It’s all because of the presence of botanical ingredients. And the absence of harmful chemicals and artificial elements.
To my surprise, you don’t even have to use a conditioner. After washing your hair with this deep nourishing shampoo! It prevents your hair from looking and feeling dry. So it’s a shame to know that this product comes in a small bottle only. A bigger size would have been perfect.
#7 Christina Moss Naturals Organic Shampoo
Christina Moss Naturals is responsible for many organic products. Not just for the hair. But also for the skin and body. The company has been in business since 1999. And every product of theirs is vegan and cruelty-free. It does the job of nourishing while also making sure the environment and animals are not harmed.
This organic shampoo washes your hair thoroughly. And it doesn’t even dry out the scalp post-wash. You can use it even if you have colored hair. The lather is rich and full for a through-and-through wash every single time.
It’s a concentrated, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula. That is safe for babies too! That means you can continue using this shampoo after pregnancy. For both yourself and your precious newborn!
But what is there in this that cleans so powerfully yet gently? It’s the inclusion of fatty acids, essential oils, and plant extracts. These definitely nourish. While also leaving the hair shiny, soft, and clean! No matter how dry or sensitive your scalp!
What’s impressive is the combination of moisturizing elements and cleansing properties. Not all such shampoos can do both by the way. So now you know why it’s one of the top Amazon choices. Despite the fact that the cap lets in water.
#8 Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo
It’s hypoallergenic. It’s vegan. It’s cruelty-free. And it delivers exceptional results during pregnancy. This is just the beginning of how amazing the Puracy shampoo really is.
The formula offers a richer and a lot more foam. Now I know that this doesn’t necessarily mean a better experience. But, in the current case, it certainly does. Your hair feels and looks healthier and stronger. The protection and moisturizing properties are also increased. And you can expect a drastic improvement in just 2 weeks.
It’s a coconut-based, sulfate-free cleanser. With Vitamins B5 and E, olive oil squalene, and beet sugar. These get together to strengthen your hair and minimize the frizz. Even brighter news is the addition of peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus. So a refreshing yet subtle scent is inevitable.
You can also breathe a sigh of relief in knowing this. That the shampoo is developed by medical professionals. So pregnant women, please get rid of all possible doubts about this product. That is suitable for men too by the way.
Even if you decide to shampoo your hair with this stuff every alternate day. On the days you don’t shampoo, your hair will still look well cared for. The only drawback I think you should know about beforehand is the leaky pump.
#9 Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo SLS Free
If anything, buy this Pure Nature Lux Spa shampoo for its exceptional powerhouse ingredients. The formula is carefully designed for adding as much moisture and volume to the hair as you desire. Whether you’re pregnant or not, doesn’t matter. The product works its charm either way.
A shampoo like this is proof that flawless looking hair doesn’t require harsh chemicals. There’s A LOT in here that is all-natural while also being very effective. And by A LOT, I mean most important hair-nourishing ingredients.
One of this Moroccan Argan Oil. To make your hair shinier, silkier, and softer. Argan oil is a very popular ingredient used in conditioners. It has the capacity to reduce frizz in the hair. And even get rid of split-ends. Many men and women use it as a leave-in conditioner. Did you know that?
The second and final natural compound is Argan Oil. It is packed with fatty acids, Vitamin E, useful for treating hair damage and loss.
#10 Clevos Natura Foresta Organic Shampoo
Why use this organic shampoo by Clevos? Simply because it’s a safe and special formula! Not like regular shampoos at all. The rich, micro-foam transforms dehydrated hair into moisturized hair. An effect that lasts throughout the day!
Your scalp can be as insensitive, heated, or irritated as it already is. And this product doesn’t do any further harm. In fact, it cools and soothes such a scalp. As for cleansing the hair, the results are more than satisfactory. Exfoliating your hair is also a part of the process. This means “goodbye dandruff.”
I would also like to bring to your attention that this is a moderately acidic shampoo. A minimal amount of acidity in the scalp keeps it healthy. This where the pH balance of the hair (2) comes into the picture. The level remains at 5.5, which is perfect to prevent dryness.
Needless to say, it’s a hypoallergenic, mild, and organic shampoo. With rosemary as its main natural ingredient. The other ingredients are also plant-based, in case you’re wondering.
To be honest, no need to worry about anything here. Cause it’s certified organic, cruelty-free, BDIH-certified, and EWG-verified. In simple words, nothing or no one has been harmed. Just so that your scalp and hair can look and feel better!
Hair Changes That Take Place during Pregnancy
Hormonal changes and pregnancy go hand in hand. The former does affect every part of your body, including your hair. They can make your hair either too thin or too thick. So let’s get to know both sides of the coin. Cause not every woman’s hair and hormones work in the same manner.
When Hair Becomes Thicker
Hair growth is a natural cycle of life, isn’t it? Your hair grows, then the growth halts for 2-3 months. Again followed by new hair in the same follicle. But you cannot expect this kind of a natural growth cycle during the 8-9 months of pregnancy.
Hair in pregnant women starts to get thicker after completing 15 weeks. That is around 4 months. So what’s the reason?
The thing is it’s not your hair strand itself that’s starting to become thicker. At the time of pregnancy, every single hair tends to stay in the growing phase for a longer time. This can also mean less hair loss. If you don’t mind it, then you can thank your increased estrogen levels.
When Hair Becomes Thinner
Hair loss during pregnancy is a common condition. And it takes place when the estrogen decreases. Due to pregnancy-related hormonal imbalance. Or because you’re not taking your oral contraceptives anymore. Sometimes stillbirth, miscarriage, or abortion also cause the hair to become thinner.
Many postpartum women too complain about hair loss. Despite their estrogen levels going back to normal. This usually happens as the hair goes from growth to the resting phase. So you can expect hair fall for about 3-4 months post-childbirth. It normally stops falling once your growth pattern hits the reset button. This takes about a year, in most cases.
How to Care for Hair during Pregnancy?
Apart from using the best shampoo for pregnancy. There are other steps you can take to ensure lustrous, healthy hair. In fact, these remedies are quite effective. For minimizing post-pregnancy hair loss as well.
Oil massage
Gently massaging your scalp with warm oil 2-3 times per week is a brilliant idea. But what kind of oil? Sesame oil and coconut oil are perfect for the job. You can even combine other oils such as castor, almond, or jojoba oil.
Also, feel free to add a drop or two of essential oils. Rosemary, lavender, cedarwood, and chamomile essential oils are ideal for a head massage. Did you know that lavender oil offers hair stimulating and growth properties? Rosemary contributes to increasing hair thickness. Chamomile essential oil makes the hair shiny and soft. And cedarwood curtails hair loss.
Fenugreek seeds
Soak some fenugreek seeds for 12 hours in water. After that, grind them into a creamy paste. Then apply on the hair. Leave it be for at least 1 hour before washing it off thoroughly.
What fenugreek seeds do is boost hair growth. While also strengthening your hair and making them shine.
Trim split-ends right away
Rough edges and split-ends cause more breakage and flyaways. So if you regularly trim them, you can make your hair look thicker and shinier.
Avoid coloring and chemical treatments
When pregnant, it’s best to keep away from such practices. The color and chemicals present in most hair products get absorbed into the scalp. Meaning the possibility of these harmful elements reaching your baby is quite real.
Avoid too tight hairstyles
It’s only common sense to not tie your hair very tight. Hair fall just needs a reason to aggravate. So don’t provide it with any. Keep away from too tight ponytails, buns, braids, and cornrows.
Don’t comb your hair when wet
I’m sure you must have heard that hair is the weakest when wet. That is true, indeed. So when you comb weak hair, what you’re actually doing is breaking off hair strands. Since they get caught up or stuck in the comb.
What Ingredients in a Shampoo Should You Avoid When Pregnant?
It’s time to focus all your attention on that list of ingredients added to the shampoo. There are many red flags you need to take into notice.
- Parabens – These are added to products to prevent bacterial growth in them. In short, parabens maintain the long shelf-life of shampoos. However, they also disrupt your hormonal balance. And pose a threat to healthy fetus development.
- Vitamin A – Too much Vitamin A tends to increases the chances of cranial defects in unborn babies (3). The common form of Vitamin A in hair care products is retinyl palmitate.
- SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) – SLS plays a part in birth defects. As a matter of fact, research also shows that phthalates are potential endocrine disrupters (4).
The End
Pregnancy doesn’t just mean your child being born after 8-9 months. It also means putting your body through many physical and mental changes. Stretch marks, pimples, swollen ankles, and a lot more. And sometimes, a change in the quality and volume of your hair too.
But these hair changes are not always on the negative end of the spectrum. Some women are lucky enough to experience a boost in volume. But those that aren’t get to introduce their hair to the best shampoo for pregnancy, for good. Because it’s an all-natural hair care product you can use after pregnancy too. Better to avoid harsh chemicals at all times, isn’t it?
So don’t hate the spike in your estrogen levels during pregnancy. Not when you have the opportunity to make your hair look and feel healthier, softer, and shinier.
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