Hairspray Safety During Pregnancy: What You Need To Know

Pregnancy can bring about a lot of changes in a woman's body, and hair changes are no exception. While some women may experience thicker hair during pregnancy, others may find themselves dealing with hair that is more or less curly. These changes often lead women to look for new hair products that are safe and effective. One common question that arises is whether hairspray is safe to use during pregnancy. While hairspray can be a popular hair care product for women, there are some concerns about its potential impact on pregnant women and their babies.

Hairspray is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it's best to minimise exposure to all hair chemicals

Pregnant women often experience changes to their hair, and this can lead them to search for new hair products. While hairspray is commonly used before and during pregnancy, there are studies linking its use to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Hairspray can contain harmful chemicals, including phthalates, which are considered endocrine disruptors. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are defined as "an exogenous chemical, or mixture of chemicals, that can interfere with any aspect of hormone action". Exposure to EDCs in utero can have adverse anti-androgenic effects on male sexual development, especially during early pregnancy when the external genitalia develops. Phthalates are also known to disrupt hormones, including hCG, a pregnancy hormone that can impact a male baby's reproductive development. Exposure to phthalates has also been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes.

However, chemical absorption from hairspray use is considered very minimal and is not known to cause harm. Data on humans remains inadequate and inconclusive, and very few studies have been done to find out the effects of exposure to hair chemicals among pregnant women. One study found that women who are heavily exposed to hairspray in the workplace during pregnancy have more than double the risk of having a son with the genital birth defect hypospadias. However, the UK NHS mentions that this study has limitations in its research design and does not provide proof of any harm from using hairspray in the first trimester.

At present, there is no sufficient evidence of teratogenic effects for pregnant women exposed to hairspray products. Personal use of hair sprays by pregnant women up to 3 or 4 times throughout their pregnancy is considered safe. Pregnant women do not need to change the hair products that they normally used pre-pregnancy, including hair spray, but it is recommended to minimise exposure to all hair chemicals. To eliminate any risk to their unborn baby, pregnant women should use as little hair spray as possible and opt for phthalate-free products. They should also avoid hair spray products with synthetic fragrances and only use hair spray in well-ventilated spaces.

Phthalates in hairspray can be inhaled and are endocrine disruptors, affecting male sexual development

Hairspray is considered unsafe for use during pregnancy if it contains phthalates. Phthalates are a series of widely used chemicals that are endocrine disruptors and are detrimental to human health. They can be found in most products that come into contact with plastics during production, packaging, or delivery.

Phthalates can be inhaled and have been linked to an increased risk of birth defects in boys, specifically malformations of the penis. A British study found that women who were exposed to hair spray on a regular basis gave birth to baby boys with these malformations.

Phthalates have also been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes. Animal studies have shown an increased risk of birth defects, and chronic exposure to phthalates will adversely influence the endocrine system and functioning of multiple organs. This can have negative long-term impacts on the success of pregnancy, child growth and development, and reproductive systems in both young children and adolescents.

To reduce exposure to phthalates during pregnancy, pregnant women should eliminate phthalate-containing products from their beauty routines and opt for all-natural hair care products that are phthalate-free.

Exposure to hairspray in the workplace during pregnancy has been linked to genital birth defects in male children

Hypospadias affects the male genitalia, with the urinary opening displaced to the underside of the penis. The condition can usually be treated with corrective surgery after a boy reaches his first birthday. However, more severe cases can lead to problems with urination, sexual relations, and fertility. The study suggested that the link between hairspray and hypospadias may be due to chemicals called phthalates, which are present in most hairsprays. Phthalates are known to disrupt hormones and affect reproductive development.

The study, conducted by researchers from Imperial College London, University College Cork, and the Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology in Barcelona, interviewed 471 mothers whose sons had been referred to surgeons for hypospadias and 490 controls across 120 London boroughs and local authority districts. The questionnaires explored various aspects of the women's health and lifestyle, including occupation, possible exposure to chemicals, family history, and dietary habits.

While the study found a significant link between hairspray exposure and hypospadias, it is important to note that other factors may also contribute to the risk of this condition. Previous smaller studies had suggested a link between hypospadias and vegetarianism, but the 2008 study did not find an increased risk associated with a vegetarian diet during pregnancy. Additionally, the study proposed that taking folic acid supplements during the first three months of pregnancy may reduce the risk of hypospadias by 36%.

Overall, while hairspray exposure in the workplace during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of genital birth defects in male children, further research is needed to fully understand the underlying causes and factors contributing to hypospadias.

Alternatives to hairspray include gels and mousses, which rarely contain phthalates

When it comes to hair care and beauty products during pregnancy, it's important to be aware of potentially harmful ingredients. One example of this is phthalates, a chemical found in common household and beauty products, including hairspray. Phthalates are known to disrupt hormones, including hCG, a pregnancy hormone that can impact a male baby's reproductive development. Exposure to phthalates has also been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes.

So, what are some alternatives to hairspray that can be used during pregnancy? Gels and mousses are great options, as they rarely contain phthalates. These products provide hold and definition to your hair without the same risks associated with hairspray.

If you're looking for a light hold and some extra texture, a texturizing spray is a good option. Sugar sprays are another alternative, made with sugar cane extract, which enhances curl texture and provides hold. Sugar sprays are also beneficial for the scalp, as they help exfoliate and promote hair growth.

For those with curly hair, shea butter can be used as a pomade to avoid hairspray. Simply rub some pure shea butter between your hands and apply it to your hair for hold and hydration.

It's also worth mentioning that all-natural hair care products without phthalates are available on the market. These may cost a bit more, but they provide peace of mind during pregnancy. Remember, it's always best to consult with your doctor if you're unsure about the safety of any product during pregnancy.

If you're unsure about a product's safety, consult your doctor

Pregnancy is a time of immense joy and anticipation, but it's also a period when you need to be cautious about the products you use. The decisions you make during this time can significantly impact your health and the health of your baby.

When it comes to hair care, things can get confusing. While the basic pregnancy rules are clear—no smoking, no drinking, and avoiding raw fish—hair care and beauty products can be a grey area. Certain ingredients in these products can be harmful to pregnant women and their babies. For example, phthalates, found in hairspray, have been linked to an increased risk of birth defects in animal studies, though the FDA has not issued a warning due to a lack of proven human risk.

If you're unsure about a product's safety, it's always best to consult your doctor. They are the best source of advice on which products to use and which to avoid. They can guide you in making informed decisions about your health and your baby's well-being. Your doctor can also help you create a plan for safely using any necessary medications during pregnancy.

Additionally, you can refer to online resources like the EWG's Skin Deep® database, which provides safety ratings for over 87,000 personal care products. However, these resources are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Your doctor can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and concerns.

Remember, each product you use during pregnancy can have an impact, so it's crucial to seek expert advice when in doubt to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

Frequently asked questions