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Beauty or the Breast

The Use of Beauty Treatments While Breastfeeding

By Carma Haley Shoemaker

The controversy regarding the use of chemical agents while breastfeeding has reached a staggering new level. However, sometimes it is hard to determine how much of this information is actually there to help and how much is simply hype. Read on for a look at how common beauty practices affect breastfeeding.

"Like most mothers of infants, I found it difficult to find time to sleep, let alone fix my hair," says Alice Workman, a freelance copywriter from Sequim, Wash. "I was not happy with the way I looked, so I asked my friend to give me a home permanent. At the time, I didn't think about the fact that the chemicals in the perm might affect my baby. I was just desperate to have an easy-care hairstyle that looked decent."

Heather Jacobson, a licensed cosmetologist from Asheville, N.C., reports that about 65 percent of her clients come to her to have their hair colored, highlighted or permed. Although not all of them are breastfeeding, Jacobson states she has had a large number of new mothers sitting in her chair, most with a concern regarding the use of chemicals.

"I simply reassure my clients that the use of these chemicals is safe and will not affect breastfeeding in any way," says Jacobson. "Chemicals such as hair coloring, highlighting solution and perms are not absorbed through the scalp so they do not enter the bloodstream. I never take my clients' concerns lightly, as I know how important it is for them to protect themselves and their babies."

"I had my hair highlighted while breastfeeding," says Brette Sember, a writer from Clarence, N.Y. I wanted my hair to look attractive. I didn't ask my doctor about any danger in getting my hair highlighted while breastfeeding since it is not something you ingest. I did mention it to my hairdresser and was reassured right away. I think getting your hair highlighted is not a problem, but as with anything, if you have a concern, ask."

Want to see more?

• Let's Hear It for the Human Breast! A Look at the Amazing Milk Factory
• For Better or Worse: The Effects of Cosmetic Breast Surgery on Breastfeeding
• What About Mom? Breastfeeding Benefits Aren't Just for Baby
• Talk about it!