27 October 2020

Every day we receive messages with these questions: - I'm pregnant, can I straighten my hair?- I'm breastfeeding, can I do a progressive brush? First of all, I'd like you to know that I'm also a mum, so I've already been through this very beautiful and special period in a woman's life! As such, this is a question that I pay particular attention to... This is a subject that is much discussed, and the truth is that there is not yet enough data to be able to answer it with certainty. It is already public knowledge that straightening and progressive brushes containing formaldehyde are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, even if they have the minimum concentration permitted by Infarmed. What hasn't yet been scientifically proven is whether or not other formaldehyde-free straighteners based on active ingredients other than formaldehyde, such as amino acids and other acids, are harmful to babies. The truth is that all compounds that are applied to the skin, and in this case the scalp, can be absorbed by the body and enter the bloodstream, thus reaching the baby, and can be harmful to the baby. In addition, hair straightening or progressive brushing can release vapours, which can also be harmful to the baby if inhaled. These facts apply to both pregnant and breastfeeding mums. Although we know that many people straighten their hair under these conditions, and we know that the risk of anything happening is minimal, given that the amount of these ingredients absorbed by the body is very small, we do not recommend it. We are also aware that there are some doctors with different opinions to what we recommend, saying that formaldehyde-free hair straightening can be done in these phases. And when this is the case, when a positive written opinion from a doctor is presented, we carry it out. Otherwise, we prefer to ensure everyone's safety and that mums-to-be keep their natural hair until they stop breastfeeding. We don't think it's ethical to advocate straightening without being absolutely sure of the implications. So what do we advise while you're pregnant or breastfeeding? To make your hair look more beautiful and moisturised, we recommend that you opt for other moisturising, reconstructing or nourishing services to help reduce frizz! Of course, you're not going to straighten your hair... Only a straightening treatment will do... In our salon we have an excellent option for this - Philip Martin's Organic Rituals. These are treatments with products from organic farming, without toxic chemicals, which is great for pregnancy or breastfeeding. These treatments have no contraindications and leave your hair beautiful and shiny, with much less frizz. Of course, they're not straightening or progressive brushes. If your hair is curly, it will still be curly. I hope this has helped many women in their decision!