When pregnant, everything you eat has to be checked and double-checked. And the same applies to using products at the time of pregnancy. Such as your daily shampoo and conditioner.
The goal here is to stay away from harsh chemicals. It’s to choose a shampoo and conditioner with natural and/or organic ingredients that are safe for your unborn child. In simple words, you the best shampoos & conditioners for pregnancy.
These are not only safe, gentle, and natural, the formulations address the most common pregnancy-related hair and scalp problems. So how about I introduce you to my top recommendations below
Top 15 best Pregnancy Shampoo and Conditioner
Top Choice: Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo
There’s this label best non toxic shampoo pregnancy that’s attached to the all-natural daily shampoo by Puracy here. The pregnancy-safe formula consists of luxurious cleansers, essential oils, and emollients that cleanse your hair thoroughly without causing dryness.
It’s a sulfate-free shampoo that gently cleans the scalp and hair. The star ingredient is squalene, which makes your hair frictionless, eliminates static, and offers weightless moisture.
And for a refreshing natural scent, Puracy has added mint and citrus aromas to energize and brighten your every bathing experience.
Key Features
Hypoallergenic, non-toxic, natural, vegan, and cruelty-free
Coconut-based, sulfate-free cleansers
Works for dry, oily, permed, and color-treated hair
Runner-Up Choice: Christina Moss Naturals Organic Hair Shampoo
Every pregnant woman’s hair routine should include a shampoo that’s powerful enough to cleanse the hair and scalp while also being safe and gentle at the same time. That said, every little thing about this organic shampoo by Cristina Moss Naturals is commendable.
There’s coconut oil for smoothening and softening the hair and removing dirt, oil, etc. Aloe vera soothes the scalp while also hydrating it. Olive fruit oil contains antioxidants for reversing any damage. And lastly, shea butter is for cleansing and moisturizing.
This is an ideal organic choice for pregnant women who want to nourish their hair and eliminate hair concerns. It ranks among the best safe hair products during pregnancy.
Key Features
Made of fatty acids, essential oils, and plant extracts
A concentrated, long-lasting formula in a recyclable tube
Good for oily, dry, and color-treated hair
Budget-Friendly Choice: Nine Naturals Citrus + Mint Nourishing Pregnancy Shampoo
An all-natural solution like this is a must when pregnant, and here’s why. For one thing, the safe and gentle Nine Naturals Pregnancy Shampoo is infused with bright lemon and lime scents to fight fatigue and nausea. There’s soothing peppermint as well.
The sulfate-free creation contains the organic version of shea butter, jojoba seed oil, and Vitamin B5. Jojoba and shea boost moisture and shine. And Vitamin B5 is for preventing split ends and strengthening your hair, thus ideal for eliminating pregnancy-related hair concerns.
Key Features
Formulated with plant-based, gentle soaps
Soothing and relaxing citrus-mint scent
Sulfate-free, paraben-free, preservative-free, etc.
Best Shampoo for Pregnancy Hair Loss: Majestic Pure Hair Loss Shampoo
Without the shadow of a doubt, this is the best shampoo to prevent hair loss during pregnancy. Majestic Pure is a very trustworthy brand because they keep their products free of harsh, toxic chemicals.
This all-natural, sulfate-free formulation is packed with 14 different gentle, fortified DHT blockers to nourish your hair follicles with the help of essential nutrients.
On top of that, the inclusion of biotin strengthens your hair strands. Then there’s niacin for increasing blood circulation in the scalp. Plus, there are many botanical extracts for promoting the overall health of your hair at the time of pregnancy.
Key Features
Herbal hair nourishment with DHT blockers
Clinically proven natural ingredients
A gentle, sulfate-free shampoo for daily use
Best for Hair Growth During Pregnancy: Majestic Pure Rosemary Shampoo
Let me tell you why this ranks as a safe hair product during pregnancy. It’s because the shampoo is equipped with only natural ingredients for promoting a healthy scalp and strong hair. Much like the previous Majestic Pure creation I’ve reviewed.
And just by the way, this too contains no parabens and sulfates. The current Majestic Pure formula has pure rosemary essential oil. Now, this particular ingredient is very widely used in hair care products because of its exceptional anti-inflammatory properties.
Also, keep in mind that the shampoo is good for daily use, no matter your hair type.
Key Features
Made with nourishing, nutrient-packed rosemary
Strong, herbal rosemary essential oil scent
Hair-softening, rich lather
Why Use Pregnancy-Safe Shampoos and Conditioners?
Conventional or commercial hair products contain endocrine disruptors. And even a tiny amount of this has an impact on your hormones and growing fetus. So yes, it’s important to avoid such endocrine disruptors and it’s also equally crucial to keep away from powerful allergens and irritants.
Needless to say, pregnancy-safe shampoos and conditioners don’t contain these kinds of chemicals. They have ingredients that are safe in case they get absorbed into your skin and enter your bloodstream.
At the same time, safe, natural ingredients are healthy for your skin as well. More often than not, these formulas are not equipped with artificial scents that tend to make pregnancy morning sickness and nausea worse. Only light, natural scents good for controlling sensitivities.
Important Features to Consider
Ingredients to Avoid
So what are the pregnancy shampoo ingredients to avoid I have been talking about so much?
See the list of ingredients printed on the back of the packaging to make sure it doesn’t mention any of the following harmful ingredients.
Parabens
Synthetic chemicals are a part of most hair and beauty products. What these parabens do is help in the preservation of the shampoo, lotion, body wash, etc. But the problem with parabens is that they’re endocrine disruptors.
If they can enter the sewage system and damage marine life, then causing trouble in your body is only inevitable.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
What about this chemical, what does it do? SLS produces lather. Daily exposure is not a good thing as it affects your nervous system, kidney function, and liver health.
There’s also Sodium Laureth Sulfate, which may be a safer alternative. Nevertheless, it’s best to go sulfate-free during pregnancy. Prevention is always a better idea than cure, isn’t it?
Vitamin A or Retinoid
This ingredient is commonly found in anti-aging and skincare products. You may not locate it in shampoos but it’s still worth mentioning here. And let me tell you why.
Exposure to Vitamin A or retinoids is associated with higher chances of developing congenital disabilities in your growing fetus.
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
Yet another common preservative that pregnant women should stay away from. Prolonged exposure to this has a negative impact on the peripheral or central nervous system.
Artificial Fragrances
These synthetic scents contain harsh chemicals such as parabens, benzene derivatives, and aldehydes. And they’ve been proven to cause skin irritation, allergies, cancer, and nervous system damage.
No wonder it’s highly advisable to choose fragrance-free hair and skincare products.
Bisphenol (BPA)
Ever heard of BPA-free plastic? Wonder why that is? Behavioral and development problems are likely to occur if you’re using personal care products with BPA.
Let me also tell you that bisphenol increases your chances of developing severe illnesses as well. Such as infertility, cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
More often than not, BPA is not a listed ingredient in shampoos. But ditch even those that don’t come with BPA-free packaging.
Ingredients to Look For
Enough of the bad news, right? How about I give you some good news now? And that is the wide availability of shampoos and conditioners equipped with only natural ingredients. These are not only safe but they also prevent hair loss, breakage, dandruff, itchy scalp, etc.
So what are these ingredients? The list includes coconut oil, aloe vera, shea butter, essential oils like rosemary and jojoba, olive oil, avocado oil, oats, and more.
The goal is to provide hydration and lock in moisture while also controlling oil and dandruff.
You also want to buy a shampoo that’s pH-balanced. Both ends of the spectrum, meaning too much acidity and too much alkalinity, cause dryness and irritation. But not when the formula is moderately acidic i.e. pH-balanced.
Then there’s Vitamin B5 as well. What it does is prevents split ends, strengthens the hair, adds shine, seals in moisture, and softens the texture. Basically, this particular Vitamin eliminates all pregnancy-related hair and scalp concerns.
Hair/Scalp Type
It’s only common sense to assume that not all women have the same type of hair and scalp. An oily scalp demands a formulation that’s different from the one specifically designed for a dry, itchy scalp.
Likewise, shampoos and conditioners crafted for thick hair are not suitable for thin, scanty hair types. Keeping that in mind, here’s how you can narrow down your search depending on what type of scalp or hair you have.
For dry hair, choose a solution loaded with moisturizing ingredients. Mostly, these include coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils.
For oily hair, more often than not, the main concerns are oil and dandruff. So to keep them at bay, make sure your shampoo does the job of cleansing your scalp thoroughly without destroying the natural moisture barrier.
For normal hair, you should choose shampoos that soothe common scalp irritation. Special ingredients like oats and peony are the most effective.
For thick hair, using a shampoo and conditioner is very important. It’s the best way to prevent hair loss as well.
For thin hair, volumizing shampoos work best. They don’t contain any harsh or chemical ingredients that are likely to cause any more damage.
For sensitive hair and scalp, there are plenty of hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested shampoos and conditioners. With zero parabens, artificial fragrances, sulfates, and the like.
How to Care for Your Hair During Pregnancy?
You cannot control how your hormones work and affect your hair. But you certainly can take the necessary steps to prevent any more hair damage. Here’s how.
Don’t Over-Wash or Under-Wash Your Hair
It’s important to shampoo the hair regularly. And by regular, I mean every alternate day. You don’t want to wash your hair daily as that tends to destroy the natural moisture and oils. Don’t wash less frequently either since that accumulates more oil, grease, and dirt.
Use the Conditioner Properly
Conditioner is supposed to be applied on the hair, not scalp. More specifically, to the ends of your hair as that part is the oldest, thus most damaged.
When you apply conditioner on your roots and scalp, it clogs hair follicles and slows down growth while also increasing the production of oil.
Comb Your Hair Gently
Why is combing the hair so important? Well, let me bring to your attention that combing the hair increases blood circulation in the scalp. It also strengthens and cleans your hair while boosting up your scalp glands and pores.
But only if you comb them gently and in small sections. The practice actually adds more volume to the head. However, don’t comb wet hair as that breaks off hair strands.
Chop Off Split Ends
The thing about split ends is that they lead to more unwanted hair breakage. These rough ends you should trim regularly to make your hair look shinier and thicker.
Get Head Massages Regularly
I’m sure you already know that a head massage boosts blood circulation. And that, in turn, makes your hair stronger, healthier, softer, and smoother.
If you can, then go for a massage at least twice a week. Make sure the oils used for your massages are coconut oil, sesame oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil.
Even rosemary essential oil works since it increases hair thickness. Then there’s the lavender essential oil for stimulating growth. And lastly, chamomile essential oil is great too. Thanks to its ability to add softness and shine.
But if preventing hair loss during pregnancy is your concern, go for cedarwood essential oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What hair changes should I expect during pregnancy?
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your hair either very thin or very thick. In the case of the latter, it’s the increase in estrogen that boosts your hair growth. The result of this is reduced hair fall.
But when hair becomes thinner instead, preventing hair loss is the top priority. That’s when your estrogen levels decline because of hormonal imbalances. And this often extends to the postpartum stage as well.
Q. Why can’t I use regular shampoo during pregnancy?
Simply because commercial or conventional products are often loaded with toxic chemicals. In normal life, maybe you can neglect health and safety. But you cannot and should not do that when pregnant.
Otherwise, you’re just increasing the chances of developmental disabilities, autism, growth defects, and a lot more in your growing fetus.
I have already discussed the ingredients to avoid and the ones to look for. So you can go through that once again to remember them all thoroughly.
Q. What is the best pregnancy-safe hair color?
The majority of hair dyes contain PPD, which is paraphenylenediamine. It’s a part of both semi-permanent and permanent hair colors. So if you come across this particular ingredient, then avoid the hair product at all costs.
Instead, go for a formula with no PPD, no parabens, and no ammonia. Also, when pregnant, it’s highly advisable to dye your hair after the completion of your first trimester.
It’s because, during the first trimester, the baby develops rapidly. This includes the brain and spine development, the formation of organs, and the beating of the heart. So it’s best not to expose your body and skin to chemicals during the first trimester.
Many pregnant women go for highlights during pregnancy. It’s the safer alternative, no doubt, since the dye and scalp don’t come in contact with each other here.
But if you wish to color the entire head, then wait for the second trimester to begin. And keep in mind, no PPD and no ammonia.
Other Reviews of Shampoos & Conditioners for Pregnancy
Pharmaceuticals Specialties Free & Clear Hair Shampoo
Does it matter if the shampoo is dermatologist-tested? It does when you’re looking for authentic, safe ingredients in your shampoo formulation. So no parabens, lanolin, formaldehyde, sulfate, and other such common chemical irritants.
This Free & Clear solution is also pH-balanced, thus suitable for every hair type. What it does is eliminate scaling, flaking, and oil. Thus, leaving your hair and scalp clean and manageable.
Key Features
Oil-control, daily-use shampoo
Dermatologist-tested and pH-balanced
Mild, non-irritating smell without artificial fragrances
Cleure Hypoallergenic Volumizing Shampoo
No matter your hair type and no matter how sensitive your scalp or skin, this hypoallergenic shampoo doesn’t disappoint. Wholesome ingredients and no harsh components always offer the best results, particularly during pregnancy.
The shampoo does a whole lot even without the use of powerful agents commonly added to get the job done. It cleanses, moisturizes, and adds more volume and shine.
Key Features
Hypoallergenic, vegan formulation
Less drying, more moisturizing and conditioning
Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
Paul Mitchell Shampoo One
Time and again, Paul Mitchell has delivered salon-quality, professional hair products. Once again, the brand gives you yet another results-driven formula to cleanse the scalp and enhance your hair appearance. Both are much-needed during pregnancy.
It’s got wheat-derived conditioners and panthenol for improving hair manageability and texture. And the shampoo does it very effectively even with a small amount.
Key Features
Contains panthenol and wheat-derived conditioners
Enhances shine and texture
Small amount enough for a good lather
Klorane Ultra-Gentle Shampoo with Oat Milk
The special ingredient present in this ultra-gentle shampoo makes your troubled pregnancy hair soft. That’s what pure oat does. It cleanses your scalp while also preserving your hair’s natural balance.
Another great quality of oats is that the ingredient is the most suitable for sensitive scalp and skin. So it’s a relief to know that the shampoo is also paraben-free, SLS-free, and silicone-free.
Key Features
Made with safe, efficient plant-based ingredients
Oat milk for moisturizing and soothing
Smells clean and fresh
Klorane Shampoo with Peony
With this, expect soothing relief from your dry, itchy, flaky, or sensitive scalp. It’s yet another Klorane shampoo formulation, but this one’s got peony instead of oats milk. However, peony also does an excellent job of soothing and relieving sensitivities.
The shampoo has Vitamin B5 as well that seals in moisture, adds shine, and softens the hair. Moreover, the pH-balanced nature of the product ensures no further unwanted hair breakage.
Key Features
Peony provides soothing scalp relief
Enriched with Vitamin B5 for dry hair
Mild and refreshing residual scent
The Big Green Pregnancy Shampoo
There are Big Green natural ingredients added to this chemical-free, sulfate-free, pregnancy-safe formulation. That makes way for gentle yet deep cleansing. It’s the perfect solution to thicker hair follicles and an oily scalp often accompanied by pregnancy.
Botanical oils and fruit extracts deliver moisture while also removing oil and dirt. Then there’s aloe vera as well for softening and hydrating your hair. Plus, the shampoo is non-toxic and dermatologist-recommended.
Key Features
Made with a blend of botanical oils and fruit extracts
Smooth, soft texture ideal for sensitive hair
No harmful parabens and sulfate
Whamisa Organic Seeds Mild Acidic Hair Shampoo
Not much needs to be explained once you read the full title of this hair product. It has words such as the following. For oily hair with itchy scalp and dandruff, moisturizing Korean shampoo, sulfate-free natural pregnancy-safe vegan shampoo.
As for ingredients, Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract is the most important. It gently refreshes the scalp by getting rid of dead skin cells. Therefore, oil control is inevitable. So your pregnancy months are not invaded by both dandruff and oil.
Key Features
Seed shampoo with organically fermented ingredients
Light yet refreshing, invigorating scent
Gets rid of dandruff, itchy scalp, and oil
Clevos Natura Foresta Natural Organic Hair Shampoo
Hypoallergenic, mild, and organic; that’s the beauty of Clevos. It’s the much-needed hair solution for pregnant women and nursing mothers. And for an itchy scalp, hair loss, rough hair, sensitive scalp, dandruff, and split ends.
The shampoo is also sub-acidic. Meaning optimally pH-balanced to prevent both irritation caused by too much acidity and dryness caused by too much alkalinity.
Key Features
Rich, micro-foaming organic shampoo
Moderately acidic, thus no irritation or dryness
Cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and gentle for daily use
Maple Holistics Natural Clarifying Shampoo
To degrease your hair, nothing works better than Maple Holistics. This shampoo eliminates grease and oil accumulation from your scalp like magic. It’s a pregnancy-friendly, natural clarifying treatment that uses lemon essential oil for restoring healthy sebum and pH balance.
The formula contains a special blend of jojoba and rosemary for hydration and protection. Whoever says that hair during pregnancy cannot look frizz-free and voluminous has definitely not tried this degreasing wonder.
Key Features
Made with moisturizing, rejuvenating essential oils
Gentle yet effective keratin therapy treatment
Degreasing shampoo cleanses the scalp and unclogs hair follicles
The Final Call
Pregnancy demands extra care and attention; this doesn’t get said enough. One very common neglected aspect during pregnancy is skin and hair care.
If you’re double-checking what you’re eating and drinking during those 8-9 months, then why not take into careful consideration what comes in contact with your scalp and skin as well? Avoiding certain ingredients is definitely more important than including safer and healthier ones.
So if you don’t want to waste time looking for a shampoo with a specific list of ingredients, which shouldn’t be a problem since I have reviewed quite a few suitable options for you, then just make sure you’re at least avoiding the dangerous ingredients.
Stay away from parabens, artificial fragrances, Vitamin A or retinoid, sulfates, and methylisothiazolinone. Instead, choose organic, natural ingredients, botanical oils, and fruit extracts. These types of formulas are great for the post-pregnancy time as well.
More Pregnancy Product Reviews:
