7.11 Hair & Nail Treatments During Surrogacy: Why Caution Is Essential & How to Stay Safe

At GSHC Surrogacy & Egg Donation, we prioritize the health and safety of our surrogates and the babies they carry. While hair and nail treatments are part of regular self-care, surrogates must take extra precautions to ensure medical safety, contractual compliance, and intended parent (IP) expectations.

As a surrogate, we hope you approach this pregnancy with the same level of caution as if it were your own child. Every decision you make should reflect the care and responsibility you would take with your own baby.

1. Why Hair and Nail Treatments Require Extra Thought

Many hair and nail services involve chemicals, and even small exposures can become a concern if they happen often or in poorly ventilated spaces. Hair dye might include ammonia or peroxide, which could be absorbed through the scalp. Nail treatments like acrylics or gel nails give off strong fumes. Even if the risk is low, when you’re pregnant—especially in surrogacy—it’s better to be cautious.

Some studies suggest that heavy exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy might raise the chance of complications or developmental concerns. While occasional treatments are generally considered safe, ongoing exposure, especially in places like nail salons, may carry added risks.

2. The First Trimester Is the Most Sensitive

Doctors often advise avoiding chemical hair and nail treatments during the first trimester, when the baby’s major organs are developing. This is the most delicate stage, and any added risk—no matter how small—should be taken seriously.

If you really want to get your hair done or keep up your nail routine, it’s best to wait until the second trimester. And when you do, make sure the salon is well-ventilated and uses safe, pregnancy-friendly products.

3. Talk to GSHC and the Intended Parents Beforehand

Not all intended parents feel the same about cosmetic treatments during pregnancy. Some are okay with it as long as it’s safe. Others prefer no chemical exposure at all. What’s important is that everyone’s on the same page. A quick message to your GSHC case manager—or even directly to the parents—can go a long way in avoiding misunderstandings.

We’ve seen cases where a surrogate showed up with freshly bleached hair and the intended parents were genuinely upset—not because of the look, but because they didn’t know what kind of dye was used or whether safety precautions were followed. When you’re carrying someone else’s baby, transparency really matters.

4. Safe Ways to Take Care of Yourself

If you do decide to have a treatment, there are safer options. For hair, choose ammonia-free or low-chemical dyes. Highlights and balayage tend to be safer because the dye doesn’t touch the scalp. Avoid harsh treatments like bleaching or keratin smoothing until after pregnancy. Always double-check ingredients and try to go to a well-ventilated salon.

For nails, stick to regular polish when possible, and choose salons with strong hygiene practices. If you go for gel, make sure to limit UV exposure and use non-toxic brands. Try to stay away from acrylics or dip powder systems, which involve stronger fumes and adhesives.

5. This Pregnancy Is in Your Hands—Literally

We know self-care can be important to your confidence and mental well-being. But in surrogacy, every decision you make reflects your commitment—not only to yourself but to the family you’re helping. When in doubt, ask. We’re here to support you, not judge you.

GSHC believes in proactive care and open communication. By staying cautious and being transparent, you help build trust and keep this journey safe, supported, and respectful.

We’re always here to answer questions and help you navigate every part of this experience—big or small. Let’s keep making thoughtful choices, together.