Any parent-to-be will know that being pregnant comes with a lot of responsibilities. We do everything we can to make sure our little ones stay safe from baby gates to car seats.
But did you know, some shampoo and conditioner brands contain some not-so-nice ingredients?
This can be the last thing on some expectant parents’ minds, so here is a list of 15 pregnancy-safe shampoo and conditioner brands to cover every budget and hair type!
In this article
- Short On Time? Here Are Our Top 5 Choices
- Why Aren’t Some Shampoos & Conditioners Pregnancy Safe?
- Best Pregnancy Safe Shampoo and Conditioners
- 1. Herbal Essences BioRenew Honey & Vitamin B Shampoo & Conditioner
- 2. Aveeno Color Protect Blackberry Shampoo & Conditioner
- 3. OUAI Fine Shampoo & Conditioner
- 4. ATTITUDE Super Leaves
- 5. Baby Botanicals Eucalyptus Remedy Plant
- 6. Puracy Shampoo & Conditioner
- 7. Alba Botanica Drink It Up Coconut Milk Shampoo & Conditioner
- 8. HASK Tea Tree Oil & Rosemary Shampoo & Conditioner
- 9. The Honest Company
- 10. SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter
- 11. L’Oreal Paris EverPure
- 12. Garnier Whole Blends Honey
- 13. Botanic Hearth Apple Cider Vinegar
- 14. VERB Volume Duo
- 15. Follicle Hero Hair Growth Duo & Scalp Massager
- FAQs
- The Final Thought
Short On Time? Here Are Our Top 5 Choices
| Title | Price | Prime | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top | Herbal Essences, Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner Kit | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Aveeno Color Protect & Strengthen+ Blackberry & Quinoa Conditioner | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | OUAI Fine Shampoo + Conditioner Set. Free from Sulfates. 10 oz Each. | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | ATTITUDE Super Leaves, Hypoallergenic Moisture Rich Shampoo | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Babo Botanicals Eucalyptus Remedy Plant Based 3-in-1 Shampoo | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
Why Aren’t Some Shampoos & Conditioners Pregnancy Safe?
Some formulations of shampoo & conditioner contain harmful formaldehyde, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates that are not recommended during pregnancy.
The problem is that many of these chemicals are common ingredients in shampoos and conditioners.
Don’t get me wrong it is highly unlikely that your shampoo or conditioner will adversely affect your unborn child. But there are some ingredients that you should avoid during pregnancy.
Formaldehyde
This is found in some hair straightening products and it is thought to cause congenital disabilities and miscarriage.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate also known as SLS
It has been linked to congenital disabilities in animal studies. But make sure not to mix it up with Sodium Laureth Sulfate that is listed as SLES, this is much milder and considered safe to use.
Parabens
Parabens are considered to be endocrine disruptors that can result in low birth weight and preterm labor.
Phthalates
These have been linked to reproductive development issues in animal studies, and experts do advise caution in their use while pregnant.
Best Pregnancy Safe Shampoo and Conditioners
But if you are concerned then some products are better than others. Here are some of our favorite pregnancy-safe shampoos and conditioners.
1. Herbal Essences BioRenew Honey & Vitamin B Shampoo & Conditioner
First up is one of our most affordable options in this lineup. It’s got everything you would want for gorgeously soft hair, without any parabens, sulfates, or mineral oils.
The shampoo will give a gentle cleanse whilst the conditioner provides incredible moisture to your hair. All the ingredients are organically sourced and mixed with purified water for peace of mind.
This product is also a winner for color-treated hair and won’t make it fade!
But some people do find this product slightly harder to rinse from their hair but all in all, it’s great value and with incredible honey, jasmine, and creamy vanilla scents it will make any shower feel like a spa treatment!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. Aveeno Color Protect Blackberry Shampoo & Conditioner
Another affordable option here, this formula is infused with protein, oats, and quinoa to repair damage caused by coloring and heat treatment.
It has a gorgeous pear and creamy vanilla scent to keep your hair nourished and bright between color touch-ups. As we all know these are hard to come by when you have kids!
This one is also a winner as it helps to care for your scalp whilst also strengthening every strand of hair! There are no parabens, dyes, or sulfates in this formula either which is why it is perfect to use during pregnancy.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
3. OUAI Fine Shampoo & Conditioner
This one comes from the brand OUAI and although it is on the pricier side compared to our previous 2, they definitely have a list of benefits to back it up.
This fine formulation is for you ladies who find your hair is on the thinner side. The formulation will reduce frizz and flyaways with its unique blend of keratin, biotin, and chia seed.
The conditioner will help to boost your hair’s volume without weighing it down so you can get bouncy hair without a salon trip!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4. ATTITUDE Super Leaves
When you are pregnant even the most delicate scent can make your nausea come flooding back. So with this pick, we choose a shampoo that not only has a lovely fragrance but also is not overpowering.
This is a great option if you are one of those unfortunate pregnant ladies that become especially sensitive to smells while pregnant.
It is also dermatological tested and cruelty-free. As well as containing some superfood ingredients such as quinoa protein and jojoba that help restore hydration and manageability while also repairing damaged hair.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. Baby Botanicals Eucalyptus Remedy Plant
This option is designed so that it can be used by the entire family even newborn babies. It can also be used as a bubble bath and a body wash. All the ingredients are certified organic and it is also gluten, soy, and dairy-free.
The main ingredient is Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride – I know sounds like something you should avoid at all costs, but it is actually gentle and kind to your hair and body.
The only drawback with this product is that because it is suitable for newborns, it may not be strong enough to get your hair clean in one application.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6. Puracy Shampoo & Conditioner
This duo has had a lot of attention in the media featuring on NBC, Fox, and The New York Times. It’s no wonder with such an incredible and pregnancy-safe blend.
Containing 99.3% natural ingredients and enhanced only with safe & natural essential oils, you’re going to fall in love with the beautiful citrus and mint scent leaving you feeling fresh and hydrated even on the days where you have morning sickness!
They also are totally transparent about EVERY ingredient in their formulations and have no SLS, SLES, MEA, sulfates, parabens, or harsh chemicals.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. Alba Botanica Drink It Up Coconut Milk Shampoo & Conditioner
This duo is high in fatty acids & proteins to repair and nourish coarse damaged hair.
The coconut milk not only provides an amazing scent but also strengthens the cuticle and helps to reduce pesky split ends meaning you won’t need to brave a big chop any time soon.
There are no damaging sulfates or drying formaldehyde just a simple PH balanced blend to care for your hair whilst keeping baby safe too.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8. HASK Tea Tree Oil & Rosemary Shampoo & Conditioner
Containing tea tree oil from Australia, this cruelty, gluten, and the sulfate-free formula is also color-safe and suited to all hair types, a real all-rounder.
If you fancy a real pregnancy-safe spa treatment at home they have a whole range of tea tree & rosemary products designed to soothe your scalp and restore each strand of hair to the healthiest it’s ever looked.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9. The Honest Company
The Honest Company prides itself on using nourishing and organic botanicals so you’re left feeling silky soft and easy to manage. The calming lavender scent isn’t overpowering which is great as this shampoo also doubles up as a body wash so you can smell incredible all day long.
It also contains no phthalates, parabens, dyes, synthetic fragrances, formaldehyde donors or SLES.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
10. SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter
This set contains certified organic shea butter to lock moisture into your hair and scalp for amazing safe hydration.
It’s perfect if you spend lots of time outdoors with all-natural sea kelp to protect you from the elements. As well as being full of goodness for your hair and baby, it’s cruelty-free too.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
11. L’Oreal Paris EverPure
A drugstore staple, L’Oreal has created this affordable and safe option that is perfect for pregnant moms.
This sulfate-free duo has a light rosemary scent and is designed to protect color-treated hair at all costs, without weighing you down. There is a whole range of these products available, so you can go ahead and treat yourself without worrying about harm coming to your unborn baby.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
12. Garnier Whole Blends Honey
Blended without any nasty stuff, this potent yet gentle remedy is a great option for any mom with damaged hair from a history of heat and styling.
They guarantee up to 72 hours of damage protection and this shampoo and conditioner even comes with a free hair mask sample for you to try. It contains no sulfates, phthalates, parabens, mineral oil, or dyes and is gluten-free.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
13. Botanic Hearth Apple Cider Vinegar
Itchy scalp? Fear not! This hydrating and nourishing duo from Botanic Hearth is color-safe whilst also treating dandruff and helping to heal and soothe that itchy scalp whilst being sulfate and paraben-free. It’s expertly formulated to clarify your scalp without irritating.
The conditioner contains rice protein extract argan oil, keratin, and soybean protein to restore dry colored hair.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
14. VERB Volume Duo
A slightly pricier choice here, this shampoo and conditioner set is formulated to boost your volume and leave you soft, smooth, and tangle-free. It ticks all the boxes with a color-safe formula that gives weightless lift and long-lasting body and hydration.
It’s also a fully vegan formula with a light oatmeal and grapefruit scent. As well as being gluten-free, paraben-free and sulfate-free.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
15. Follicle Hero Hair Growth Duo & Scalp Massager
Finally at the end of our list is our most luxurious choice, if you’ve read this far you may as well treat yourself! It’s well known for pregnancy take a toll on every aspect of your body, but a lot of moms worry about the hair loss that comes with postpartum shedding.
This hair treatment combo also comes with a scalp massager to promote new growth and healthier, fuller hair. It’s also totally safe to use when pregnant or nursing as it contains no harmful chemicals or aggressive surfactants.
However, it is on the pricier side but it might make a nice gift for a new mom in your life.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
FAQs
What shampoos should I avoid while pregnant?
Whilst we can’t list the brands and products to avoid, we can advise you what ingredients you should steer clear of. These include parabens, synthetic fragrances containing phthalates, a preservative called methylisothiazolinone.
Phthalates may alter your hormone levels which has been viewed in some scientific studies.
Which hair oil is good to use during pregnancy?
If you really want to treat yourself, try a gentle scalp massage with warm oil a few times a week. It helps to calm and promote better sleep as well as hair growth.
You can use coconut, sesame, almond, or olive oil to this and just gently knead your scalp with your fingertips.
What soap is safe for pregnant women?
Body soaps and body washes are generally considered safe for pregnant women to use without any concerns. As always, consult your doctor if you have any concerns and when in doubt stick to organic and natural formulations.
The Final Thought
Hopefully, we have put your mind at rest and you can now choose a product that not only cleans and nourishes your hair but also does not have the potential to cause harm to your unborn baby.
After thoroughly reviewing all 15 products, our top choice was the Herbal Essences Shampoo and Conditioner kit.
Our list includes a range of different shampoos and conditioners with a variety of different price points from affordable everyday use to luxurious. But after all, growing a tiny human is hard work so why not go ahead and spoil yourself!
