Most doctors agree that standard shampoos and conditioners are safe for everyone, including expecting moms. However, companies rarely test cosmetic products on pregnant women due to ethical constraints, so concrete data is sometimes scarce.
While your current shampoo likely poses no risk to your baby, we understand the urge to be extra cautious. If you want peace of mind, switching to a gentler formula can help. Here is everything you need to know about choosing the best pregnancy-safe shampoos.
- Dye-, paraben-, sulfate-free
- Readily available in the market
- Includes matching conditioner
- Appealing scent
- Dermatologically tested
- Cruelty-free
- Available in multiple variants
- Oatmeal is main ingredient
- Comes in various scents
- Gluten, soy, dairy, peanut, almond and walnut free
- Certified organic ingredients
- Made in the USA
- No added fragrances
- Excellent for eczema
- pH-balanced
- Washes out styling products
- Gentle for daily use
- Gel-like consistency
- Light fragrance
- Creamy texture
- Good lather
- Rinses well
- Lathers in hard water
- Moisturizes the scalp
How Pregnancy Changes Your Hair
Hormone levels shift dramatically around the eighth week of pregnancy, and this often alters your natural hair growth cycle. Many women notice their hair growing faster, while natural hair loss slows down significantly. This usually results in hair that feels much thicker and fuller (1).
Unfortunately, this growth isn’t limited to your head. You might discover hair sprouting in unwanted places. If this happens, don’t panic. You can pluck stray hairs if they bother you, and your hair growth patterns will return to normal after the baby arrives.
Not everyone gets the “luxurious lock” treatment, though. Some women find they lose more hair than usual due to estrogen fluctuations or stopping birth control pills.
If you notice excessive shedding, mention it to your healthcare provider to rule out any nutrient deficiencies.
You might also experience texture changes. Pregnancy hormones can make curly hair straight or turn smooth hair frizzy. Your scalp may become drier, leading to dandruff, or it might produce excess oil.
Does Shampoo Affect Pregnancy?
Research on cosmetic products and pregnancy outcomes is limited (2). Opinions vary significantly among experts. Some doctors give the green light to standard products, while others suggest a more cautious approach.
Since definitive evidence is lacking, the best approach is to do what makes you feel secure. If switching to a cleaner, pregnancy-safe shampoo eases your anxiety, it is a worthwhile investment for these nine months.
Ingredients To Avoid During Pregnancy
If you see these ingredients in your current bottle, don’t panic. You haven’t harmed your baby. These substances are generally considered safe in the low concentrations found in cosmetics.
However, some studies link them to health issues in animals or high-dose scenarios. If you prefer to play it completely safe, look for formulas free of the following:
- Formaldehyde: Manufacturers use this in some straightening treatments and preservatives. It is a known carcinogen and is linked to congenital disabilities (3).
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): This creates lather but can irritate sensitive skin. Animal studies have linked high concentrations to developmental issues. Note that Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is a milder, safer alternative (4).
- Parabens: These preservatives mimic estrogen and can act as endocrine disruptors. Some research suggests a link to preterm birth and lower birth weights (5).
- Phthalates: Often hidden under the label “fragrance,” phthalates help scents last longer. Experts advise caution as they are linked to reproductive development issues in animal studies (6).
Product Reviews
We analyzed ingredient lists, cross-referenced data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), and tested products for performance to find the top 10 pregnancy-safe shampoos (7).
Herbal Essences BioRenew Honey and Vitamin B
Best Value Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo
This rich, creamy shampoo frames itself as an extra-gentle option, making it a solid choice for color-treated or damaged hair. It effectively removes build-up without stripping natural oils, leaving strands shiny and manageable.
The fragrance is sweet but not nauseating, which is a huge plus if you are dealing with morning sickness. When paired with the matching conditioner, the scent lingers pleasantly without being overpowering.
Herbal Essences states this formula is “87 percent natural origin.” This essentially means the bulk of the product comes from plant or mineral sources, while the remaining 13 percent consists of synthetic ingredients needed for shelf stability and texture.
Ideally, the parent company, Procter & Gamble, submits ingredient lists to the Environmental Working Group. The EWG has verified this specific shampoo as free from “chemicals of concern,” offering peace of mind for cautious moms-to-be.
Pros
- Verified safe: EWG Verified and free from dyes, parabens, and sulfates.
- Accessible: Easy to find in most drugstores and supermarkets.
- Complete system: A matching conditioner is available.
Cons
- Moisture heavy: May weigh down naturally greasy hair.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Dry to normal |
| Fragrance | Honey, jasmine, and vanilla |
| Indications | Good for color-treated hair |
| Size | 12.2 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | Yes |
Our Ratings
Attitude Hypoallergenic Quinoa & Jojoba
Best Scented Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo
Finding a scent that doesn’t trigger a gag reflex during pregnancy is a challenge. We tested several options and found Attitude’s Quinoa & Jojoba formula to be the crowd favorite.
The aroma is subtle and fresh rather than heavy or artificial. This makes it an essential pick for women with a heightened sense of smell.
Beyond the scent, the performance is impressive. You don’t need a handful of product to get a rich lather, and it rinses out quickly. Users noted that even without conditioner, their hair felt reasonably soft. When used as a set, it leaves hair shiny and smooth.
While the label doesn’t specifically target frizzy hair, users with unruly textures reported good results. The formula seems to help tame flyaways and increase overall manageability.
Pros
- Great smell: Fresh scent that isn’t overpowering.
- Safe testing: Dermatologically tested and cruelty-free.
- Eco-friendly: Certified by ECOLOGO for reduced environmental impact.
Cons
- Mild cleanser: Some users felt it was too gentle for very dirty hair.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Dry to normal |
| Fragrance | Quinoa and jojoba |
| Indications | Good for brittle hair |
| Size | 16 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | Yes |
Our Ratings
Aveeno Scalp Soothing Fresh Greens Blend
Best Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner Combo
If you prefer a streamlined shower routine, Aveeno’s Fresh Greens Blend is a fantastic option that clarifies and thickens. It uses colloidal oats as a primary ingredient to soothe sensitive scalps.
The formula includes rosemary and peppermint. While pregnant women should avoid ingesting medicinal amounts of these oils, the topical levels in this shampoo are generally considered safe. The peppermint provides a cooling sensation that feels great on an itchy scalp.
Aveeno sources its oats from the Mississippi River Valley, appealing to those who prefer U.S.-sourced ingredients.
However, the minty, herbal scent is distinct. If you dislike rosemary or mint, you might prefer the Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Blend or the Almond Oil Blend instead.
Pros
- Versatile: Available as shampoo, conditioner, and dry shampoo.
- Quality base: Oat is the first ingredient, not water.
- Variety: Multiple scent profiles are available within the line.
Cons
- Strong scent: The herbal fragrance might be too intense for some.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | All |
| Fragrance | Rosemary, peppermint, and cucumber |
| Indications | Good for fine hair |
| Size | 12 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | No |
Our Ratings
Babo Botanicals Moisturizing Plant-Based 2-in-1 Shampoo & Wash
Best Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo And Bodywash In One
This plant-based formula from Babo Botanicals works as both a shampoo and a body wash. It is gentle enough for a newborn, making it an ultra-safe choice for mom.
The key conditioning agent is Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride. Despite the scary name, it is a safe, water-soluble organic compound that detangles hair and adds volume without weighing it down.
Since it doubles as a body wash, you can use it for a relaxing bubble bath. It contains calendula, known for its soothing properties, which can help calm irritated skin and promote relaxation.
The formula is low-suds, meaning it doesn’t foam up as much as traditional shampoos. If you have thick or very oily hair, you might need to wash twice to get that squeaky-clean feeling.
Pros
- Allergen-friendly: Free from gluten, soy, dairy, peanuts, and tree nuts.
- High standards: Contains certified organic ingredients.
- Local production: Made in the U.S.A.
Cons
- Very mild: May struggle to clean heavy styling product buildup.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Any |
| Fragrance | Cedarwood, tonka bean extract, bergamot, vanilla |
| Indications | None |
| Size | 15 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | Yes |
Our Ratings
Free & Clear Hair Shampoo
Best Fragrance-Free Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo
If you have eczema, allergies, or extreme sensitivity to smells, even “unscented” products can sometimes cause a reaction. Free & Clear (from the makers of Vanicream) strips away everything non-essential.
It is important to understand the difference between “fragrance-free” and “unscented.” This product is fragrance-free, meaning no masking scents are added. It has a neutral, slightly chemical smell in the bottle because you are smelling the raw ingredients, but it rinses away completely.
Users consistently report zero residual smell after washing. This is the gold standard for anyone suffering from contact dermatitis or severe morning sickness triggers.
It cleans effectively but isn’t a “luxury” experience. You won’t get a spa-like aroma, but you will get clean hair without the itch.
Pros
- Pure formula: No dyes, lanolin, fragrance, parabens, or formaldehyde releasers.
- Skin-safe: Ideal for eczema and sensitive scalps.
- Balanced: pH-balanced to protect the hair cuticle.
Cons
- Stings eyes: This is not a “tear-free” formula.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | All hair types |
| Fragrance | None added |
| Indications | None |
| Size | 12 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | No |
Our Ratings
Aromatica Cyprus Deep Cleansing Shampoo
Best Natural Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo
Aromatica creates products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and devoid of sulfates and phthalates. Their Cyprus Deep Cleansing formula is a standout for moms dealing with greasy roots or grime from city living.
Ingredients like alpha-pinene and camphene stimulate the scalp, leaving it feeling invigorated and deeply cleaned. It is particularly effective for oily hair types that need a reset.
The scent is a mix of pine, French Cyprus, and eucalyptus. Users describe it as “woodsy” rather than floral or fruity. It smells like a walk in a forest.
This therapeutic aroma can be grounding. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, the sensory experience of this shampoo might offer a brief moment of calm in your day.
Pros
- Clarifying: Removes styling products and oil effectively.
- Daily use: Gentle enough to use every day despite the deep clean.
- Texture: Has a pleasing gel-like consistency.
Cons
- Tingle factor: The scalp stimulation might be too intense for some.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Oily to normal |
| Fragrance | Woodsy |
| Indications | Good for oily hair |
| Size | 13.53 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | Yes |
Our Ratings
Herbal Essences Sulfate-Free Shampoo & Conditioner
Best Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo for Curly Hair
Curly hair often needs extra moisture and frizz control, but many effective products are loaded with silicones and sulfates. This Herbal Essences Sulfate-Free blend hits the sweet spot between safety and performance.
Unlike many frizz-control shampoos that are thick and opaque, this is a clear liquid. However, it transforms into a rich, creamy lather once water hits it. It cleans without stripping, which is vital for maintaining curl patterns.
A little goes a long way. A coin-sized amount is usually enough to cover a head of long, thick hair. The bottle tends to last for weeks, making it a budget-friendly option.
It leaves hair soft and manageable. If your pregnancy hormones are turning your curls into a frizzy halo, this shampoo can help smooth things back down.
Pros
- High lather: Foams up surprisingly well for a sulfate-free product.
- Efficient: Highly concentrated formula.
- Affordable: Great price point for the quality.
Cons
- Fragrance: The scent is distinct and lingers.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Dry |
| Fragrance | Honey, Jasmine, Vanilla, Aloe Vera |
| Indications | Good for frizzy, curly, and unruly hair |
| Size | 20.2 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | Yes |
Our Ratings
Burt's Bees Pomegranate Seed Oil Shampoo
Best Budget Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo
Burt’s Bees is a household name for natural products. While they haven’t submitted their full fragrance details to the EWG for verification, a review of the label shows no red-flag ingredients for pregnancy.
This pomegranate-based shampoo is polarizing. Users generally agree that it smells lovely and has a nice, creamy texture. It lathers decently and feels good during the wash.
However, the results vary by hair type. Some women love the volume and shine it adds. Others report that it leaves a residue that builds up over time, making hair feel flat or waxy.
Given the affordable price point and the generally safe ingredient profile, we think it is worth a try, especially if you have fine hair that needs volume.
Pros
- Pleasant use: Smells good and feels creamy.
- Sudsing: Creates a good lather.
- Volumizing: Designed to add body to flat hair.
Cons
- Mixed results: Some users experience residue buildup.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | All |
| Fragrance | Pomegranate |
| Indications | Good for lackluster hair |
| Size | 10 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | No |
Our Ratings
Biggreen 23 Natural Daily Shampoo
Best Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo For Daily Use
If you wash your hair every day, whether due to an oily scalp or just habit, you need a shampoo that cleans without overdrying. Biggreen 23 is formulated specifically for daily use.
It balances cleansing power with scalp moisturization. This is a crucial feature, as stripping the scalp too aggressively can actually trigger it to produce more oil.
Users confirm that it lathers well, even in hard water areas where natural shampoos often fail. It rinses out quickly, saving you time in the shower.
The main drawback is consumption. Because it is milder than harsh drugstore brands, you might find yourself using more product per wash to get the lather you are used to.
Pros
- Quick rinse: Washes out easily.
- Hard water friendly: Lathers even with mineral-heavy water.
- Hydrating: Keeps the scalp moisturized.
Cons
- Usage rate: You may go through the bottle quickly.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Normal to oily |
| Fragrance | Citrus |
| Indications | Good for sensitive scalp |
| Size | 10.1 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | No |
Our Ratings
Clevos Natura Foresta
Best Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo for Dandruff
Clevos Natura Foresta Eucalyptus offers a bright, refreshing scent that wakes you up. It works well on dry, flaky scalps, making it our top pick for pregnancy-related dandruff.
The formula helps clear up flakes quickly. However, it is very moisturizing. While this is great for dry skin, users with naturally oily hair found it a bit too heavy for daily use. It works best in rotation with a clarifying shampoo if you are prone to grease.
The packaging looks luxurious and features a pump, which is convenient for slippery shower hands. Unfortunately, the pump mechanism can be finicky. Several users reported it sticking, requiring them to unscrew the top to fix it.
It is on the pricier side, but for stubborn dry scalp issues during pregnancy, the relief is often worth the cost.
Pros
- Ethical: Cruelty-free and certified organic.
- Aesthetic: Beautiful bottle design.
- Soothing: Great for dry, itchy scalps.
Cons
- Hardware issues: The pump bottle is temperamental.
- Solo act: No matching conditioner in the line.
Product Specs
| Hair Type | Sensitive, dry, normal |
| Fragrance | Eucalyptus |
| Indications | Good for dandruff |
| Size | 17.92 fluid ounces |
| EWG Verified? | Yes |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Hair Type | Fragrance | Good For | Size | EWG Verified? |
| Herbal Essences BioRenew | Value For Money | Dry to normal | Honey, jasmine, & vanilla | Color-treated hair | 12.2 oz | Yes |
| Attitude Hypoallergenic Shampoo | Scented | Dry to normal | Quinoa & jojoba | Brittle hair | 16 oz | Yes |
| Aveeno Scalp Fresh Greens Blend | Shampoo & Conditioner | All | Rosemary, peppermint, & cucumber | Fine hair | 12 oz | No |
| Babo Botanicals 2-in-1 | Shampoo & Bodywash | Any | Cedarwood, tonka bean extract, bergamot, vanilla | Gentle cleanse | 15 oz | Yes |
| Free & Clear Hair Shampoo | Fragrance-Free | All hair types | None | Sensitive Skin | 12 oz | No |
| Aromatica Cyprus Deep Cleansing | Natural | Oily to normal | Woodsy | Oily hair | 13.53 oz | Yes |
| Herbal Essences Shampoo | Curly Hair | Dry | Honey, Jasmine, Vanilla, Aloe Vera | Frizzy, curly, & unruly hair | 20.2 oz | Yes |
| Burt’s Bees Pomegranate Seed Oil | Budget Pick | All | Pomegranate | Lackluster hair | 10 oz | No |
| Biggreen Natural Daily Shampoo | Daily Use | Normal to oily | Citrus | Sensitive scalp | 10.1 oz | No |
| Clevos Natura Foresta | Dandruff | Sensitive, dry, normal | Eucalyptus | Dandruff | 17.92 oz | Yes |
Is Baby Shampoo Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, baby shampoo is safe. It usually contains the same base ingredients as adult versions but with milder surfactants to prevent eye irritation. Because it is so gentle, it might not remove heavy oil or styling product buildup as effectively as your regular brand. You may need to wash, rinse, and repeat to get a deep clean.
How To Care For Your Hair During Pregnancy
Your body is doing a lot of heavy lifting right now, and your hair care routine might need an adjustment. Here are a few tips to keep your locks healthy.
Skip The Chemicals
Try to avoid perms, chemical straightening, and bleaching, especially during the first trimester. This minimizes your overall chemical exposure while the baby’s major organs are developing.
Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
Your hair reflects your diet. Eating fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, and protein supports hair health. Drinking plenty of water is also essential for maintaining moisture levels.
Monitor Your Scalp
Hormones can change your skin type rapidly. Check your scalp once a week. If it feels dry, switch to a moisturizing shampoo. If it’s getting greasy, look for a clarifying formula.
Always Condition
Unless your hair is extremely oily, use conditioner every time you wash. It seals the cuticle and protects the hair shaft. If you have greasy roots, apply conditioner only to the ends.
Get Regular Trims
You don’t need a big chop, but regular trims prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. This keeps your hair looking thick and healthy as it grows out.
Loosen Up
Avoid tight ponytails, buns, or cornrows that pull on the scalp. Your hair might be more prone to breakage right now, and tension alopecia is real.
Brush Carefully
Wet hair is elastic and snaps easily. Avoid brushing it straight out of the shower. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush, and start from the ends, working your way up.
Try Scalp Massage
Massaging your scalp with oil can improve circulation and soothe dry skin. Just ensure the essential oils in your product are pregnancy-safe before applying them.
Manage Stress
Stress triggers hair loss (telogen effluvium). While pregnancy is stressful, finding moments to relax is vital for your physical health and your hair.
FAQs
Embrace The Change
Whether your hair is thick and glossy or doing something weird and unexpected, try to roll with it. Pregnancy changes your body in countless ways, and your hair is just along for the ride.
Focus on the basics: eat well, hydrate, and use safer products to minimize chemical exposure. Use this time to build better self-care habits. Your hair, and your baby, will benefit from a happier, healthier you.















