I've been worried lately. I'm almost 14 weeks pregnant and I work as a hair stylist. My job requires me to work with chemicals on a daily basis. I work with ammonia, bleach, peroxide and I am in the salon when perm solution is being used. I touch color periodically when I wear gloves. The salon is big so there is some ventilation but not a lot. I've done some researching and I haven't found anything saying its bad but I'm still concerned. After a full day working with color I sometimes get headaches but maybe that's because I'm dehydrated. I do find the smell of the chemicals and even hair styling product bothersome now that I'm pregnaht. Should I wear a mask or am I silly for worrying? Wearing a mask would be odd when having to talk to clients but if you thinks its safer I will. I see my obstarician Jan 2 and I will ask her but your opinion is much appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to answer me!

I personally don't think its safe to work around any chemicals when pregnant. What is inhaled goes into the bloodstream and therefore through the fetus.

It is perfectly safe if working in a well ventilated area. I've delivered many babies to moms who are hairdressers. One of my supervisors (he's a registered nurse) is married to a hairdresser and she worked up until 2 days before her delivery.