Pregnancy is a time of profound change—emotionally, physically, and even in the little routines that make us feel like ourselves. For many expectant mothers, questions start to arise about everyday activities, including whether it’s safe to continue with haircuts or colouring treatments during pregnancy.
Heather, Artistic Director at Sobo Hair Boutique in Edinburgh—and currently pregnant herself—is no stranger to these questions. Drawing on both her professional experience and her own pregnancy journey, she shares honest, practical advice for mums-to-be who want to continue caring for their hair safely.
Is It Safe to Get a Haircut While Pregnant?
Yes, absolutely. Haircuts are completely safe during all stages of pregnancy. Since no chemicals are involved, there’s no cause for concern, and many pregnant clients actually find regular trims to be a welcome confidence boost.
Heather explains:
“Pregnancy hormones can make hair behave unpredictably. Some clients experience faster growth, others feel their hair becomes dry or more prone to breakage. A simple trim every 6–8 weeks can keep your hair looking neat and feeling healthy throughout your pregnancy.”
Staying on top of split ends and dry patches can also help with overall manageability, especially as energy levels fluctuate and your hair routine might need simplifying.
Can I Colour My Hair While Pregnant?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and the answer is generally yes, especially after the first trimester.
Most research suggests that colouring your hair during pregnancy is safe when done correctly and using high-quality, professional products. However, certain precautions are still worth following.
At Sobo, our stylists recommend:
- Waiting until after the first 12 weeks (first trimester) before applying colour, to err on the side of caution.
- Opting for techniques like highlights or balayage, where the colour is applied to the hair shaft rather than the scalp, reducing absorption risk.
- Using gentle, low-chemical formulas, such as those from L’Oréal or Aveda, which are known for their safety and performance.
Heather says:
“I’ve taken a cautious approach during my own pregnancy. I recommend avoiding full head permanent colours in the early weeks. Balayage and foilyage are brilliant alternatives that grow out naturally and don’t require frequent touch-ups.”
What Are the Safest Colour Techniques for Pregnancy?
If you’re keen to refresh your colour during pregnancy, you’re not limited—there are plenty of low-risk options that can still deliver stunning results.
Highlights or Balayage
These techniques apply colour to selected sections of hair without touching the scalp, reducing exposure to any chemicals.
Semi-Permanent Gloss
These glossing treatments are typically ammonia-free and ideal for enhancing shine or toning without long-lasting colour changes.
Foilyage
A modern twist on balayage, foilyage offers a lift similar to traditional highlights, but again avoids contact with the scalp.
Heather adds:
“Our team specialises in colour work and can customise a treatment to suit your hair and your pregnancy needs. No two heads of hair—or pregnancies—are alike, so we adapt our approach accordingly.”
Can Pregnancy Affect How Colour Takes?
Yes, it can. The hormonal changes during pregnancy can influence your hair’s texture, porosity, and oil levels. This might slightly alter how your hair reacts to colour, causing it to process more quickly—or slowly—than expected.
Heather says:
“We always carry out a patch or strand test, especially with new clients or if we’re working with pregnant clients whose hair might be behaving differently than usual. That way, we can predict the outcome more accurately and make sure the final result looks and feels great.”
Are Kérastase Treatments Safe During Pregnancy?
Many pregnant clients report changes in their hair’s condition—dryness, dullness, frizz, and breakage are all common complaints. A nourishing in-salon treatment can go a long way toward restoring strength and shine, and most Kérastase treatments are perfectly safe during pregnancy.
Sobo offers a variety of Kérastase treatments, including:
- Fusio-Dose – Customised to address specific concerns like breakage or dullness.
- Deep Intense Hydration – Excellent for dry, brittle hair.
- Première Damaged Hair Treatment – Removes mineral build-up and revives overprocessed strands.
Heather shares:
“For me, treating myself to a Kérastase ritual has been the ultimate act of self-care during pregnancy. It’s safe, effective, and genuinely relaxing.”
Are There Any Products I Should Avoid?
Generally speaking, most salon-quality products are safe. However, it’s wise to avoid:
- High-ammonia permanent dyes
- Harsh chemical straighteners
- Strong bleaching agents applied close to the scalp
At Sobo, the team uses carefully chosen products that align with both ethical standards and performance expectations. Aveda and Kérastase, for example, are known for their gentle yet effective formulations.
If you have allergies or sensitivities, simply let your stylist know at your consultation so adjustments can be made.
Can I Still Book a Blow Dry or Styling Session?
Yes, definitely. Many pregnant clients book blow dries not only for special occasions but simply as a treat. A professional blow dry can be an instant mood-lifter, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when you may feel tired or less confident in your appearance.
Heather reflects:
“As my own pregnancy progressed, I found that small beauty rituals—like having my hair styled—had a big emotional impact. Feeling polished and put-together really matters when your body’s going through so many changes.”
Pregnancy Haircare Tips from Heather
While regular salon visits help, there are also steps you can take at home to care for your hair during pregnancy:
- Switch to a sulphate-free shampoo to prevent dryness
- Always use conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends
- Avoid excessive heat styling when possible
- Book a deep conditioning treatment every 4–6 weeks
Heather notes:
“My own hair changed a lot in pregnancy—dry one week, oily the next. I found consistency in trims and conditioning really helped manage the shifts.”
Can I Bring Someone to My Appointment?
Absolutely. The team at Sobo understands that pregnancy can feel overwhelming at times, and you’re welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member to keep you company. The Trinity salon is designed to be a comfortable, friendly space for all.
Is Sobo Hair Boutique Pregnancy-Friendly?
In short, yes. Sobo takes extra care to make expectant mothers feel supported and pampered. Features like upgraded backwash chairs with improved support, complimentary head massages, and understanding stylists make all the difference.
Clients can also earn points on the Sobo Treat Card, which can be redeemed for products, blow dries, or treatments—a lovely way to spoil yourself before baby arrives.
Final Thoughts from Heather
“As both a stylist and a mum-to-be, I really understand the need to feel informed and comfortable. You absolutely can visit your hairdresser while pregnant—you just need a team who understands how to adjust treatments to suit your changing needs. That’s exactly what we aim to provide at Sobo.”
Planning Your Next Visit?
Whether you’re in your first trimester or preparing for baby’s arrival, taking time for yourself is always worthwhile. If you’re considering a haircut, gentle colour service, or relaxing treatment, speak to your stylist about the best options for you.
Our Edinburgh hair salon offers a calm and supportive environment, with experienced stylists who understand how to care for your hair during pregnancy.