Can You Remove Body Hair During Pregnancy?
Shaving and waxing are safe. Laser and depilatory creams require caution.
Shaving and waxing are safe during pregnancy. Laser hair removal and IPL should be postponed until after delivery due to insufficient safety data. Depilatory creams are likely safe but may cause stronger skin reactions due to hormonal changes. Increased hair growth during pregnancy is normal and temporary.
🪒 Safe Hair Removal Methods During Pregnancy
| Method | Safety | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shaving | Safe | Most common; be careful with reduced visibility in late pregnancy |
| Waxing | Safe | May be more painful due to increased blood flow and sensitivity |
| Threading | Safe | Good for facial hair; no chemicals involved |
| Epilator | Safe | Mechanical removal; may be more painful than usual |
| Sugaring | Safe | Natural alternative to waxing |
| Depilatory creams | Likely safe | Use in ventilated area; patch test first |
| Laser hair removal | Not recommended | Insufficient safety data during pregnancy |
| IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) | Not recommended | Same concerns as laser |
| Electrolysis | Not recommended | Amniotic fluid may conduct electrical current |
⚠️ Why Laser Hair Removal Should Be Postponed
Laser hair removal and IPL are not recommended during pregnancy for several reasons:
- No safety studies: There are no clinical trials studying laser effects on pregnant women or fetuses.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy hormones affect hair growth patterns, making treatment less effective.
- Increased skin sensitivity: Pregnancy pigmentation changes increase the risk of burns and discoloration.
- Pain sensitivity: Many women experience heightened pain during pregnancy.
Most dermatologists recommend waiting 3–6 months after delivery (or after breastfeeding) before resuming laser treatments.
🔬 Why Hair Growth Changes During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women notice increased body and facial hair growth. This is normal and caused by:
- Higher estrogen levels: Prolonged hair growth phase makes hair thicker and more noticeable.
- Increased androgens: Can cause new hair growth on the face, belly, and chest.
- Improved blood circulation: Nourishes hair follicles, promoting faster growth.
Good news: Most extra hair growth is temporary and reverses within 6 months after delivery.
📋 Practical Tips for Hair Removal During Pregnancy
- If waxing, tell your esthetician you are pregnant — they can use gentler formulas.
- Shaving in the third trimester can be challenging — consider asking your partner for help or using a long-handled razor.
- Moisturize skin after shaving to prevent irritation.
- If using depilatory creams, apply in a well-ventilated area and always patch test first.
- Do not worry about a pre-delivery shave — hospitals do not require it.
❓ FAQ
Can I get a Brazilian wax during pregnancy?
Yes, bikini and Brazilian waxing is safe during pregnancy. However, be aware that the area may be more sensitive due to increased blood flow. Communicate with your esthetician about your pregnancy.
Is laser hair removal safe in early pregnancy?
Laser hair removal is not recommended at any stage of pregnancy due to lack of safety data. If you discover you are pregnant and recently had a session, there is no known reason for concern, but discontinue until after delivery.
Can I use depilatory creams during pregnancy?
Depilatory creams are likely safe when used as directed, as the chemicals are not significantly absorbed through the skin. However, use in a ventilated area and do a patch test first.
Will the extra hair growth during pregnancy go away?
Yes. The increased hair growth caused by pregnancy hormones is temporary. Most women notice hair returning to normal within 3–6 months after delivery.
Dermatovenerologist, trichologist, 1st category physician · 21 years of experience NHS, ACOG, AAD
Updated: March 2026
Sources
- NHS — Is it safe to use hair removal cream during pregnancy?
- ACOG — Skin changes during pregnancy
- British Association of Dermatologists — Laser safety guidelines
- American Academy of Dermatology — Hair removal during pregnancy