Pregnancy is a transformative journey, not only for your body but also for your self-care routine. As you become more mindful of what goes into and onto your body, it’s essential to evaluate the products you use daily-including shampoo. Switching to safe shampoos during pregnancy can protect both your health and your baby’s well-being. In this article, we’ll explore why it’s important to choose pregnancy-safe shampoos, what ingredients to avoid, and highlight some of the top-rated safe shampoos for pregnancy available today.
How Pregnancy Changes Your Hair
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can cause a range of hair changes. Some women experience thicker, shinier hair due to increased estrogen, while others may face dryness, oiliness, or even hair fall. Understanding these changes is key to adjusting your pregnancy hair care routine and selecting the best pregnancy-safe shampoo for your needs.
Why Choosing a Safe Shampoo During Pregnancy Matters
How Ingredients Can Affect You and Your Baby
Certain chemicals found in conventional shampoos may absorb through the scalp and potentially affect fetal development. This makes it essential to opt for pregnancy-safe hair products that are free from harsh or toxic ingredients.
Common Hair Concerns During Pregnancy
Many expectant mothers deal with scalp sensitivity, excess oil production, or hair fall. Using a pregnancy-safe shampoo for hair fall or irritation can soothe the scalp and prevent further damage.
What Makes a Shampoo “Pregnancy-Safe”?
A safe shampoo during pregnancy is typically free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and other known irritants or hormone disruptors. Instead, these shampoos rely on natural ingredients and are often labeled as organic or dermatologist-tested.
How to Choose the Right Pregnancy-Safe Shampoo for You
Consider Your Hair Type and Scalp Condition
Whether your hair is oily, dry, curly, or color-treated, you should choose a natural shampoo for pregnancy that targets your specific needs without harmful additives.
Check for Certifications and Ingredient Transparency
Look for shampoos that are certified organic, hypoallergenic, or EWG-verified. Ingredient transparency ensures you’re using safe beauty products for pregnancy with no hidden toxins.
When to Consult a Dermatologist or OB-GYN
If you’re unsure which product is right for you, especially if you’re experiencing hair loss or scalp issues, consult a healthcare professional before switching products.
Ingredients to Avoid in Shampoos While Pregnant
Sulfates and Parabens
These are commonly used foaming and preserving agents but are known to irritate the scalp and potentially disrupt hormone levels.
Phthalates, Synthetic Fragrances, and Dyes
These chemicals are linked to endocrine disruption and allergic reactions. Fragrance-free or naturally scented products are safer options.
Retinoids, Formaldehyde, and Other Toxins
While more common in skincare, some shampoos may include traces of these substances, especially in “strengthening” or “anti-aging” formulations. Always read the label carefully.
Top-Rated Safe Shampoos During Pregnancy
1. CLEVOS Natura Foresta
🔑 Key Features
- Cruelty-Free: Not tested on animals.
- Hair Type: Best suited for dry hair and dry scalp.
- Formulation: Liquid shampoo with rich microfoaming action for deep hydration.
- Scent: Refreshing eucalyptus fragrance.
- pH Balanced: Subacidic formula (pH 5.5) helps maintain healthy scalp and hair.
- Exfoliating & Cleansing: Effectively removes dandruff, cleanses, and exfoliates without irritation.
- Natural & Safe: Made with naturally derived ingredients—EWG Verified, BDIH Certified, and USDA Certified Organic.
| ✅ Pros ✔ Excellent for hydrating dry and split-end hair. ✔ Promotes a healthy scalp by balancing oil levels. ✔ Non-irritating, even for sensitive skin types. ✔ Safe, certified organic, and eco-conscious formulation. ✔ Free from harsh chemicals commonly found in commercial shampoos. | ❌ Cons ✘ May not lather as much as conventional shampoos due to natural ingredients. ✘ Slightly higher price point compared to drugstore brands. ✘ Eucalyptus scent may not appeal to everyone. |
2. Herbal Essences Shampoo and Conditioner
🔑 Key Features
- Natural Origin: 87% natural origin shampoo and 90% natural origin conditioner. Made with real botanicals and limited processed natural ingredients
- Package Includes: One 12.2 fl oz shampoo and one 13.5 fl oz conditioner
- Moisturizing Benefits: Designed to moisturize hair while gently cleansing, ideal for color-treated hair
- Free From Harsh Additives: Sulfate-free, paraben-free, oil-free, dye-free, and mineral oil-free
- Hair Type: Suitable for color-treated hair
- Fragrance Profile: Multi-layered scent of honey, jasmine, and creamy vanilla
- Trusted Ingredients: Botanicals verified by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Item Form: Gel shampoo and conditioner
| ✅ Pros ✔ Safe for color-treated hair ✔ Moisturizes and nourishes without harsh chemicals ✔ Pleasant, long-lasting fragrance ✔ Backed by Kew Gardens for botanical integrity ✔ Clean, eco-conscious formulation | ❌ Cons ✘ Not 100% natural, though high in natural origin content ✘ Gel texture may not appeal to users who prefer creamy formulas ✘ Scent may be strong for sensitive users |
3. Burt’s Bees Pomegranate Seed Oil Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Best Use: Recommended for use with the matching conditioner for optimal results
- Volumizing Formula: Designed for flat, lackluster hair, helps add volume and body
- Natural Ingredients: Infused with pomegranate seed oil (rich in antioxidants) and avocado oil
- Sulfate-Free & Clean: 99.6% natural origin, sulfate-free, and free from phthalates, parabens, petrolatum, and SLS
- Hair Benefits: Helps repair and add shine, while reducing frizz
- Scent: Refreshing pomegranate and soy fragrance
- Gentle & Easy to Rinse: Suitable for daily use and gentle on hair
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
| ✅ Pros ✔ Enhances volume for flat or fine hair ✔ Naturally derived formula with clean ingredients ✔ Pleasant fruity scent with no synthetic fragrances ✔ Reduces frizz and adds shine without weighing hair down ✔ Eco-conscious and safe for sensitive scalps | ❌ Cons ✘ Not ideal for very dry or curly hair needing deep moisture ✘ Volume results may vary depending on hair type ✘ Scent may not appeal to those sensitive to fruit-based fragrances |
4. ATTITUDE Moisture Rich Hair Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
- Natural Ingredients: Made with 97.8% naturally sourced ingredients, including quinoa protein and jojoba protein
- Moisturizing Formula: Helps hydrate hair and improve its appearance and texture
- Plant-Based Performance: Infused with watercress and Indian cress for added vitamins and minerals
- Scent: Moisture Rich fragrance for a fresh, clean scent
- Certified Clean & Safe: EWG Verified for clean ingredients and transparency. Dermatologically tested for safety and Vegan & cruelty-free
- Hair Type: Suitable for all hair types
| ✅ Pros ✔ Safe, non-toxic formula with verified clean ingredients ✔ Hydrates and softens hair without harsh chemicals ✔ Ideal for sensitive scalps and daily use ✔ Eco-conscious, vegan, and cruelty-free ✔ Light, refreshing scent | ❌ Cons ✘ May not provide deep moisture for very dry or damaged hair ✘ Lighter lather than conventional shampoos due to natural formula ✘ Scent is subtle, which might not satisfy those preferring strong fragrances |
5. Herbal Essences, Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner
🔑 Key Features
- Item Form: Gel texture for easy application and rinse
- Natural Origin Formula: 87% natural origin shampoo and 90% natural origin conditioner, made with real botanicals and purified water
- Color Protection Benefits: Specially designed for color-treated hair to help preserve color, smoothness, and shine
- Gentle Cleansing: Sulfate-free formula gently cleanses without stripping color
- Verified Botanical Ingredients: Endorsed by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, ensuring high-quality plant-based ingredients
- Scent Experience: Features multi-layered notes of ocean mist, dewy florals, and warm amber
- Free From Harsh Additives: Paraben-free, oil-free, mineral oil-free, and dye-free
- Set Includes: One 12.2 fl oz shampoo and one 13.5 fl oz conditioner
| ✅ Pros ✔ Safe for color-treated hair — helps retain vibrancy and moisture ✔ Mild and non-stripping formula ideal for regular use ✔ Pleasant, layered fragrance for a spa-like experience ✔ Clean, nature-inspired ingredients with verified botanical sources ✔ Free from harsh chemicals and suitable for sensitive scalps | ❌ Cons ✘ Might not provide deep hydration for very dry or coarse hair ✘ Gel texture may not be preferred by those who like creamier formulas ✘ Scent, while pleasant, may be subtle for fragrance lovers |
6. Aveeno Fresh Greens Shampoo & Conditioner
🔑 Key Features
- Hair Type: Suitable for all hair types
- Moisturizing & Volumizing: Designed to moisturize, soothe, nourish, and add volume, especially great for fine to medium hair
- Natural Ingredients: Infused with oats, rosemary, peppermint, and cucumber for a refreshing and soothing experience
- Clarifying Formula: Helps clarify and thicken hair while delivering a gentle clean
- Free From Harsh Chemicals: Paraben-free, sulfate-free, and dye-free; safe for color-treated hair
- Trusted Brand: From Aveeno, known for using the soothing power of oats in skin and hair care since 1945
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo and conditioner
| ✅ Pros ✔ Great for adding body and fullness to fine or limp hair ✔ Cooling, refreshing sensation from peppermint and cucumber ✔ Soothes the scalp with oat-infused formula ✔ Clean, color-safe, and free from sulfates and parabens ✔ Light, natural fragrance without overwhelming scent | ❌ Cons ✘ Might not be moisturizing enough for very dry or coarse hair ✘ Lightweight formula may not suit those needing heavy conditioning ✘ Cooling sensation may not be preferred by everyone, especially sensitive scalps |
7. AROMATICA Rosemary Scalp Scaling Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Aromatherapy-Inspired: Created by qualified aromatherapists using plant-based ingredients and Liquid formula with a natural rosemary scent
- Hair Growth & Strengthening: Infused with rosemary oil and biotin (B7) to stimulate hair growth and help thicken hair
- Deep Scalp Cleansing: Gently removes dandruff, excess oil, and buildup, refreshing the scalp
- Nourishing Botanical Blend: Contains rosemary essential oil, probiotics, amino acids, panthenol (B5), and caffeine for scalp and hair health
- Hair Loss Prevention: Designed to reduce hair fall and support a healthy scalp environment for regrowth
- Clean & Safe Formula: Free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones and Suitable for normal to dry hair types.
| ✅ Pros ✔ Promotes hair growth and reduces hair loss naturally ✔ Deeply cleanses and revitalizes the scalp ✔ Botanical, vegan-friendly formula with no harsh chemicals ✔ Ideal for those with dry or normal hair seeking a clean, refreshing experience ✔ Developed with holistic, aromatherapy principles | ❌ Cons ✘ Herbal rosemary scent may be too strong for some users ✘ Not suited for oily hair types needing oil control ✘ May take time to see visible hair growth results |
8. Babo Botanicals Moisturizing Oat & Calendula 2-in-1 Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Gentle & Moisturizing: Specially formulated for dry hair, providing light moisture and nourishment
- Naturally Derived Formula: Made with plant-based, hypoallergenic ingredients suitable for the whole family
- Safe for Sensitive Skin: Dermatologist-tested and free from harsh chemicals, ideal for babies, kids, and adults
- Mild Scent: Lightly fragrant formula for those sensitive to strong fragrances
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
- Hair Type: Best for dry or delicate hair types
- Age Range: Safe for all ages, including infants and adults
| ✅ Pros ✔ Extremely gentle, great for sensitive skin and scalps ✔ Light scent that won’t overwhelm or irritate ✔ Family-friendly and suitable for daily use ✔ Free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances ✔ Helps moisturize and soften dry hair | ❌ Cons ✘ May not provide deep hydration for very coarse or damaged hair ✘ Light formula might not be ideal for oily or thick hair types ✘ Fragrance is very mild, which may not appeal to those wanting a stronger scent |
9. Vanicream Hair Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Hair Type: Suitable for all hair types, especially those with sensitive scalps
- Dermatologist Recommended: Top-rated brand for sensitive skin (IQVIA ProVoice Survey, July 2023)
- Mild, pH-Balanced Formula: Gently cleanses hair and scalp, suitable for all hair types
- Gentle Scalp Care: Helps remove flaking, scaling, and controls oily scalp without irritation
- Free From Common Irritants: Fragrance-free, dye-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, gluten-free, and protein-free
- Safe for Sensitive Skin: Formaldehyde-free, paraben-free, and lanolin-free. Unscented and dermatologist tested
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
| ✅ Pros ✔ Ideal for sensitive skin or scalp conditions (eczema, dermatitis, etc.) ✔ No irritating ingredients – clean, minimalist formula ✔ Unscented – great for fragrance-sensitive users ✔ Removes buildup and helps control oil without over-drying ✔ Widely dermatologist recommended hair | ❌ Cons ✘ No scent may be underwhelming for users who prefer aromatic shampoos ✘ Basic formula may not offer extra hydration or styling benefits ✘ Not deeply moisturizing, so may not suit very dry or damaged hair |
10. PURA D’OR Advanced Therapy Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Scalp Health Focus: Contains Zinc Pyrithione to combat dandruff, itchiness, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp bacteria
- Hair Revitalization: Helps repair damaged, distressed hair, boosting shine, softness, and volume
- Stimulates Hair Follicles: Powered by 17 active ingredients to awaken slow or inactive follicles and promote thicker, fuller hair
- Comprehensive Scalp Protection: Protects against odor, breakage, and thinning with a premium botanical and therapeutic blend
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
- Hair Type: Designed for damaged, thinning, or scalp-sensitive hair
- Scent: Light, clean shampoo scent
- Age Range: Adult use
| ✅ Pros ✔ Targets multiple scalp issues including dandruff and itching ✔ Supports hair thickening and improved texture ✔ Gentle yet effective formula for daily or routine use ✔ Free from harsh chemicals often found in standard shampoos ✔ Good choice for hair regrowth support and repair | ❌ Cons ✘ Scent is basic and may not appeal to users who prefer fragrance-rich formulas ✘ May take consistent use over time to see hair regrowth results ✘ Can be drying for some hair types if not paired with a conditioner |
11. SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Deep Moisture for Dry Hair: Specifically designed to hydrate and repair dry, damaged hair
- Nourishing Ingredients: Infused with Manuka Honey, Mafura Oil, Fig Extract, and Fair Trade Shea Butter for intense nourishment
- Sulfate-Free Formula: Gently cleanses without stripping natural oils
- Clean Beauty Standards: Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and petrolatum and Cruelty-free, no animal testing
- Rich Lather & Honey Scent: Creates a luxurious, moisturizing lather with a sweet honey fragrance
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
- Hair Type: Ideal for dry, brittle, or textured hair
- Age Range: Adult use
✅ Pros ✔ Deeply hydrating, ideal for dry or damaged hair ✔ Rich, restorative oils help soften and improve texture ✔ Natural and ethically sourced ingredients ✔ Pleasant honey scent and smooth application ✔ Safe for color-treated hair and free of harsh chemicals | ❌ Cons ✘ May be too heavy for fine or oily hair types ✘ Thick consistency might require more rinsing ✘ Strong scent may not suit those sensitive to fragrance |
12. ATTITUDE Pregnancy Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Natural Origin Formula: Made with 97.8% naturally derived ingredients, including argan leaf extract for revitalizing hair
- EWG Verified: Certified by the Environmental Working Group for clean, safe, and transparent ingredients
- Dermatologist Tested: Gentle on the scalp and suitable for all hair types
- Vegan & Cruelty-Free: Made without animal-derived ingredients or animal testing
- Scent: Light and refreshing argan leaf fragrance
- Item Form: Gel shampoo
- Age Range: Adult use
✅ Pros ✔ Clean and safe formula, great for those avoiding harsh chemicals ✔ EWG Verified, ensuring high safety and health standards ✔ Revitalizes and softens hair without weighing it down ✔ Vegan and eco-conscious brand values ✔ Suitable for daily use and all hair types | ❌ Cons ✘ May not deeply hydrate very dry or damaged hair ✘ Mild scent might not appeal to users who prefer stronger fragrance ✘ No added styling or thickening benefits |
13. Carina Organics Moisturizing Shampoo
🔑 Key Features
- Vegan & Cruelty-Free: 100% plant-based formula with no animal testing
- Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable: Safe for the environment, including rivers, lakes, oceans, and septic systems
- Hypoallergenic: Gentle on sensitive skin and scalp
- Free From Harsh Ingredients: No parabens, soy, or gluten, ideal for allergy-prone users
- Citrus Scent: Light, refreshing natural citrus aroma
- Item Form: Liquid shampoo
- Hair Type: Best suited for normal hair
- Age Range: Adult use
✅ Pros ✔ Safe for both you and the planet ✔ Great for sensitive skin due to its hypoallergenic nature ✔ Clean, simple ingredients with no synthetic chemicals ✔ Pleasant citrus scent without artificial fragrances ✔ Ideal for daily use | ❌ Cons ✘ Mild cleansing power may not suit oily or heavily styled hair ✘ No specialized benefits (like volumizing or deep repair) ✘ Availability may be limited to niche or organic retailers |
A Guide to Hair Care During Pregnancy
Maintaining healthy hair during pregnancy doesn’t require a complicated routine. Stick to gentle, pregnancy-safe hair products, minimize heat styling, and nourish your body with a balanced diet. Hydration, prenatal vitamins, and regular scalp massages can further promote hair strength and growth.
Final Thoughts
Switching to safe shampoos during pregnancy is a simple yet meaningful step in safeguarding your health and your baby’s development. With a variety of safe shampoos for pregnancy on the market, there’s no need to compromise between hair care and safety. Choose products that align with your hair needs, health values, and lifestyle. Treat your body and hair to the care they truly deserve.