“I am still worried about how the baby is developing,” says expectant mom, Lori Minkin. Lori is 5 months pregnant. Like all expectant moms, she is concerned that her baby is growing and is healthy. Before becoming pregnant Lori regularly hit the nail salon and would indulge in massages and facials. But now, she’s taking precaution when it comes to the primping.

“I still get manicures and pedicures, I do bring my own polish it is formaldehyde-free polish,” says Lori.

“According to medical experts, there are certain safety measures that pregnant women should take when it comes to beauty treatments.

“Avoid chemicals and chemical exposures in the first trimester. Our biggest concern is as the organs are forming as the fetus is developing, after the first trimester not that those concerns go away, but they lessen significantly because all the baby’s organs are formed at that point,” says Dr. Bernadith Russell of Long Island College Hospital, New York.

While there are small amounts of toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde in nail polishes and removers, an insignificant amount is absorbed through the nail bed…overall making manicures pretty safe. But, if you’re looking to make some of those stray grays dark again, you may want to hold off. Most doctors advise against putting any chemicals on your scalp.

“Highlights are a very good option because the chemicals are not actually on your scalp. An occasional coloring of your hair during the pregnancy should pose no danger as long as it is after the first trimester,” says Dr. Russell.

If your aching back is crying out for a massage, make sure you are in the hands of a trained prenatal masseuse. Steer clear of deep-tissue massage, as well as foot reflexology and shiatsu, which focus on certain acupressure points that can affect the abdomen. As for facials, a basic one is fine, but avoid chemical facials or peels, which can be harmful to your baby. And if you’re looking to brighten your smile, wait until baby is born.

“We don’t have a lot if information on teeth whitening and the home products, most of them contain hydrogen peroxide and there is some concern,” says Dr. Russell.

Medical experts also advise pregnant moms to stay away from skin-care products containing Retinol, an over the counter form of Retin-A. There have been instances in which pregnant women using Retin-A, gave birth to babies with abnormalities.

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