Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative time for many women, filled with anticipation and new experiences. However, alongside these changes come hormonal shifts that affect not just the body internally but also show up in hair, skin, and overall sensitivity to products—important factors to consider when deciding on cosmetic treatments like brow lamination.
Melissa Thompson, an experienced midwife and acupuncturist at Gold Coast University Hospital, works closely with expecting and new mothers. She highlights the significant influence of pregnancy hormones on hair and skin. “During pregnancy, many women notice changes in hair texture, such as new growth, loss, or structural shifts. These differences are largely due to fluctuations in hormones like Prostaglandin and Oxytocin,” she explains. As each woman’s pregnancy experience is unique, so is her body’s response to treatments.
Hormonal changes can have varied effects on hair. For some women, pregnancy brings thicker, fuller hair, while others might experience thinning or even new curl patterns. In the breastfeeding stage, hair loss is common as hormone levels stabilise, causing shifts that may affect how cosmetic treatments like brow lamination and lash lifts take to the hair.
Due to these hormonal fluctuations, sometimes a brow lamination might not work on an expecting or breastfeeding mother, it could also mean the processing time that is required could be longer or shorter than usual.
If you have an expecting mother who books for in for a brow lamination, it is important to confirm if she has previously had this treatment performed with the brand that you are using. Most times, if the mother has not had a brow lamination before falling pregnant, it would be recommended to not perform the treatment without educating the client of the potential issues such as the lamination not working/dropping out or over processing.
While brow lamination is generally safe, some timing considerations can help ensure comfort and minimise risk:
First Trimester: The first trimester is marked by heightened hormone levels, nausea, and increased skin sensitivities. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who do experience a reaction are not able to take antihistamines or antibiotics as these treatments can affect their child and so there are some cautions that need to be taken. Elleebana recommends avoiding brow laminations during this period due to the possibility of a stronger-than-normal reaction to the chemicals or odours in lamination products. Pregnant clients may also experience heightened nausea or discomfort from product fumes.
Second Trimester: This phase is typically more stable, making it the most favourable time for brow lamination. Nausea often subsides, and energy levels are usually higher, reducing discomfort from treatment. However, a well-ventilated space and the use of mild, tested products are essential to accommodate increased skin sensitivity and risk of nausea.
Third Trimester: The third trimester brings its own set of considerations, particularly physical comfort. Extended periods lying on the back can be uncomfortable or even unsafe. Brow artists can often modify their approach by allowing clients to sit up or ensuring supportive padding is provided during the treatment.
Whether your client is expecting or breastfeeding, a few simple steps can go a long way toward ensuring safety and comfort:
Managing client expectations is key to a positive experience, particularly when outcomes may vary due to hormone fluctuations. Clients who are informed and understand the potential challenges are more likely to feel satisfied with the results, even if they differ from pre-pregnancy outcomes.
Regardless of pregnancy, it’s always wise to keep an up-to-date indemnity form on file. This document should include any current medications or newly developed allergies to ensure the safest treatment experience.
By taking the time to understand and prepare for these special considerations, brow artists can make the experience comfortable, safe, and satisfying for their expecting clients.