Can I Use Henna While Breastfeeding? Is Henna for Eyebrows and Lashes Safe During Breastfeeding?

Henna is a natural plant-based dye derived from the leaves of Lawsonia inermis. It has been used for centuries to color hair, skin, and eyebrows or eyelashes. However, many breastfeeding women wonder whether using henna is entirely safe and if it could have any negative effects on their baby.

Henna and Breastfeeding – Is There Any Risk?

Pure henna, without any chemical additives, is considered safe for breastfeeding women. The plant-based dye does not enter the bloodstream in amounts that could harm the baby. This means there is no scientific evidence indicating that henna negatively affects breast milk or the infant’s health.

Pure Henna vs. Chemical Mixtures

While natural henna is generally safe, some commercially available henna products contain chemical additives that could pose a risk. These may include:

  • PPD (p-Phenylenediamine) – a synthetic dye commonly found in hair colors, known for causing allergic reactions.
  • Ammonia and other oxidizing agents – can irritate the skin and trigger allergic responses.
  • Preservatives and artificial colorants – may not always be safe and can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

To minimize risk, it is best to choose 100% pure plant-based henna, preferably labeled as “body art quality” (BAQ), which indicates high purity and safety for skin application.

Potential Allergic Reactions

Although henna is a natural product, some people may still experience allergic reactions. This is especially true for individuals with a history of skin sensitivities. Before applying henna, it is advisable to perform a patch test by applying a small amount of henna on the skin behind the ear or on the forearm and observing for any reactions within 24-48 hours.

Does Henna Affect Breast Milk?

There is no evidence that pure henna enters breast milk or affects the baby. Henna works on the surface of the skin and hair, without significant penetration into the bloodstream. However, some women may be more sensitive to strong scents or cosmetic ingredients after childbirth. If the henna product contains chemical additives, it is best to avoid them.

Safe Henna Use While Breastfeeding

To ensure safety for both you and your baby, follow these guidelines:

  1. Choose pure henna without chemical additives – preferably natural henna without PPD or artificial dyes.
  2. Do a patch test before first-time use – even if you have never had an allergic reaction to henna before.
  3. Use henna in a well-ventilated area – especially if using pre-mixed henna products with added ingredients.
  4. Avoid contact with mucous membranes and eyes – particularly for eyelash treatments.
  5. Consult a doctor or dermatologist if in doubt – especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergies.

Easy Waxing recommends

Henna for eyebrows and eyelashes during breastfeeding is safe, provided that you use pure, natural henna without chemical additives. There is no evidence of harm to the baby, and the treatment does not affect breast milk composition. However, caution should be taken to avoid allergic reactions, and products containing PPD and synthetic ingredients should be avoided.

If you have any doubts or are prone to allergies, consulting a healthcare professional before the procedure is recommended.

Compendium of knowledge about Eyelash & Eyebrow Tinting

Back to Eyelash & Eyebrow Tinting treatment
Woman Newsletter
Waxing always on time

Always up to date? Subscribe to our newsletter.