Updated on April 20, 2021 by Lyric Fergusson
During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through so many changes, it’s hard to keep count. Many of these changes don’t always feel positive and certainly not fun, but there are a few that many swear by and even look forward to. One of those: luscious locks! However, the thicker, more luscious hair doesn’t last for long. And there are other, less glamorous things that might accompany this new growth: dry scalp, dandruff, etc. Also, after pregnancy, postpartum hair loss is real and a serious concern for many new moms.
Below, we have compiled a list of our favorite shampoos for use during your pregnancy, and after!
[ez-toc]The Best Shampoos for Pregnancy
1. Avalon Organics Thickening Shampoo
(Best value — $)
Why it’s great: This shampoo from Avalon Organics is vegan and not tested on animals. Pregnant women can rest easy: It is free of GMOs, parabens, and harsh chemicals and preservatives. It is designed to gently cleanse fine, thinning hair and nourish it to help build volume. Using biotin, plant protein, saw palmetto, and vitamin E, this shampoo is said to strengthen hair strands and build body. Because some studies show that chemical absorption through the skin can happen without our noticing, this company prides itself on its use of USDA Organic ingredients. While your hair may be thriving during pregnancy, postpartum hair loss could be on the horizon. Why not start combatting it now?
Keep in mind: It has a wonderful minty fresh scent, but that could be bothersome if you’re sensitive to smell.
Good for: Moms-to-be who are very conscious of everything that goes on their bodies during pregnancy.
2. Pure Tea Tree Shampoo for Dandruff and Itchy Scalp
(Highest rated — $)
Why it’s great: The key to healthy hair starts with the scalp and this shampoo is designed to tackle exactly that. Dry skin is a pregnancy staple and you may be finding that you have a dry, itchy scalp for the first time in your life. This Tea Tree Shampoo from Maple Holistics helps to clear away dead skin cells and even soothe scalp blemishes if you have any. The anti-dandruff nature of this shampoo helps to boost volume and texture, while also moisturizing your locks with jojoba and argan oil.
Keep in mind: Tea Tree Oil has a very specific scent. Make sure to familiarize yourself with it in case you are not a fan.
Good for: Moms-to-be with scalps needing a bit of love and attention. Start at the root of the problem!
3. Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo
(Most unique — $)
Why it’s great: Made with 96% natural ingredients, this shampoo is both anti-dandruff and moisture-infusing with tea tree oil and jojoba, argan, and sage oils. Sage oil, while relatively uncommon in most hair care products, is stated to be rich in antioxidants that are great for protecting skin and hair. So your scalp will also get some much needed nourishment. Sage contains balancing properties which will help stimulate your scalp and thicken the look of your hair. Now, if only that sage could help to balance out our ever-raging hormones.
Keep in mind: This is made with all hair types in mind, but curly hair really thrives due to its claim to decrease frizz and static.
Good for: Static and frizz-prone moms who need a little attention to their scalps and their strands.
4. Pure Nature Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
(Most versatile — $$)
Why it’s great: Women have been raving about the benefits of argan oil for hair for years. This Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo from Pure Nature claims to moisturize, hydrate, stop split ends, and strengthen and thicken your hair. It works well for both men and women but is ideal for pregnant women who are already worried about postpartum hair loss. This shampoo is designed for frizzy, dry, curly, fine, thin, and damaged hair and hopes to help you smooth and tame your locks into health. Plus, this was developed by salon experts hoping to restore your hair from damage caused by weather, heat, and even wild hormones.
Keep in mind: When using a shampoo with added oils, always make sure to rinse thoroughly. Many reviewers noted that when they rinsed properly, they had no issues with greasy hair at the roots!
Good for: Women looking for more bang for their buck and a tried and true key ingredient!
5. Soley Iceland Natural Shampoo
(Most natural — $$$)
Why it’s great: This shampoo is certified natural and contains 98% natural, silicone-free ingredients. Most of the ingredients come from plants and herbs picked in the wilderness of Southern Iceland and were chosen specifically for their ability to moisturize and heal your hair and scalp. It works great for dandruff, eczema, psoriasis, and any other scalp issues. This shampoo is also eco-friendly and is vegan, natural, and cruelty-free. It was made specifically for normal to oily hair and gives those locks bounce and volume, as well as shine.
Keep in mind: A little goes a long way, so be careful that you don’t overapply.
Good for: Women that want an eco-friendly, all natural shampoo that will moisturize their scalp and hair.
6. Hair Shampoo – With Organic Aloe & Essential Oils
(Most eco-friendly — $$)
Why it’s great: This is another shampoo made with all natural ingredients that are vegan and cruelty-free. It’s hypoallergenic and perfect for anyone with sensitive skin. On top of that, even the packaging is recyclable, making it the most eco-friendly product on the list. This shampoo works for any type of hair, whether it’s oily, normal, or dry. It nourishes and moisturizes both your scalp and hair, leaving it feeling smooth and soft. It includes many beneficial ingredients, such as coconut oil, olive oil, aloe, and shea butter to give your hair long-lasting health and volume.
Keep in mind: This shampoo has no scent whatsoever, good or bad.
Good for: Women who want an environmentally friendly shampoo that also moisturizes and gives volume.
7. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo
(Trusted brand — $)
Why it’s great: This product is a fan favorite. During and after pregnancy, our hair goes through numerous changes. This shampoo from OGX helps to improve strength and elasticity, which often fades throughout pregnancy. Reviewers rave about the scent of this shampoo. It is described in the listing as “citrus-fresh, floral-green, and woody.” What’s not to love? This shampoo helps to protect your hair from the heat of styling, without any parabens or sulfates.
Keep in mind: If you’re needing an immediate boost, don’t just buy the shampoo. This brand also has treatments available and sometimes it’s best to start with that.
Good for: Moms who love a trusted brand, as this brand offers many varieties for all hair care needs.
8. MAJESTIC PURE Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Avocado Coconut Conditioner Set
(Best daily option — $$$)
Why it’s great: This shampoo and conditioner set is perfectly balanced and light enough for everyday use without leaving your hair feeling stripped and dry. The apple cider vinegar in the shampoo helps to remove buildup and hard water residue that gets left in your hair with other shampoos. It gives a fresh clean, while also healing dry, damaged hair. Combined with the coconut and avocado oil conditioner, your hair will feel nourished and soft. This combo also helps to control frizz and leaves your hair silky smooth.
Keep in mind: Best results come when you follow the instructions and lather in your hands before putting on your hair.
Good for: Women who like to shampoo their hair on a daily basis and need something that’s not too harsh for that.
9. Puracy Shampoo and Conditioner Set
(Most long lasting — $$$)
Why it’s great: This shampoo and conditioner set uses plant-based ingredients that mimic the look and feel of a silicone based shampoo. It is hypoallergenic and gluten, paraben, silicone, sulfate free, for a healthier head of hair. This brand is used by salon professionals and tested to keep hair cleaner and shinier for up to 3 days between washes! It’s also been featured on the news and magazines as an amazing, natural shampoo and conditioner, including the Pregnancy & Newborn magazine.
Keep in mind: This is recommended for normal hair, but many reviewers claimed that it worked wonders for oily hair too.
Good for: Women that want to go longer between washes and still have great looking hair.
10. Bingo Hair Care Natural Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set
(Best frizz control — $$)
Why it’s great: This argan oil-infused set is a frizz-fighter because it helps to infuse each strand with moisture, while also helping with elasticity to lessen the amount of day-to-day breakage. This is effective for all hair types and is perfect for both men and women. Pregnant women can rejoice, as this company knows consumers have enough to worry about without needing to research ingredients on shampoo bottles. This company invests lots of time in finding the best and healthiest ingredients for your hair.
Keep in mind: This product claims to increase volume and – according to the reviews – it does! A great buy if you have thin hair and are looking for a little bounce.
Good for: Women with frizzier hair that need some extra control.
11. Love Beauty and Planet Volume and Bounty Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
(Complete set — $$)
Why it’s great: I can tell this one smells great just by looking at the packaging! Made with coconut water and mimosa flowers, this shampoo and conditioner set gently clean and detangle, while infusing lightweight moisture to help volumize hair. Don’t worry moms-to-be, this product is vegan and color-safe, with ingredients that are ethically sourced. Many reviewers noted that their hair felt softer after just one use. Why shouldn’t mom’s hair be as soft as baby’s?
Keep in mind: This product does contain a sulfate, but the company addressed that and says it is only to help increase the lather in the shower.
Good for: Moms with color-treated or damaged hair, looking to maintain what they’re already working with.
FAQs about shampoos during pregnancy
1. Is shampoo safe during pregnancy?
Most hair care products are safe during pregnancy, so there shouldn’t be any need to change your routine when you find out you’re expecting. Unless, of course, you’re using any sort of medicated shampoo. Make sure to talk to your doctor about any of these.
2. What shampoos should I avoid while pregnant?
There are ingredients in shampoos that should be avoided during pregnancy. Truthfully, they should be avoided at any time. Sulfates can strip your hair of the natural oils present, alcohol can dry out hair follicles and your scalp, etc.
3. How should I care for my hair during pregnancy?
Your hair may thrive during pregnancy, but postpartum hair loss can be unsettling to many mothers. Therefore, caring for your hair during pregnancy is important. Try things like an oil massage, good shampoo, and conditioner, avoid chemicals in coloring and treatments, get regular trims, eat healthily, etc.
4. Does pregnancy make hair grow faster?
Hormones can make hair grow longer and tend to make your hair fall out less than when not pregnant. Also, many women experience changes in their hair texture during pregnancy.
5. What do I do about dry hair during my pregnancy?
First, start by eating healthy and drinking plenty of water. Your prenatal vitamins will help, too!
Conclusion
Pregnancy has many ups and downs and the physical changes to Mom’s body are numerous and plenty! One of the changes every Mom-to-be experiences is in their hair; With the added and fluctuating hormones, some women experience a change in texture, some experience growth, and volume, and some experience thinning and breakage. Anything goes. Even if your hair is thriving during pregnancy, you may notice a less-than-positive difference when you’ve had your little one and the postpartum hormone changes kick in.
Postpartum hair loss plagues many. So, we all might as well start combatting that while pregnant, so long as we are using safe products. The above list should help you determine which fit is right for you, depending on the things you look for in a hair product.
You may also like our other product reviews…
Body Washes for Pregnancy | Breast Pump for Twins | Compression Socks for Pregnancy | Maternity Bras | Maternity Jeans | Maternity Leggings | Maternity Pajamas | Maternity Pants | Maternity Support Belts | Maternity Tights | Maternity Work Pants | Maternity Workout Clothes | Nipple Shields and Balm | Postpartum Pads | Pregnancy Journals | Pregnancy Underwear | Probiotics for Pregnancy | Shoes for Pregnancy |
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