This is one of the most common questions we receive from expectant clients at Shapes Glow Studio. The right answer is more nuanced than most beauty sites let on — and depends on where you are in your pregnancy and your individual skin sensitivity.
The Short Answer
Most professional brow lamination suppliers and estheticians in Canada advise waiting until after the first trimester before proceeding with brow lamination. This isn't because there is documented evidence of risk — it's because the chemical solution used in lamination hasn't been formally tested on pregnant women, and the precautionary principle applies during the first trimester when organ development is most active.
From the second trimester onward, many clients proceed without issue. However, the final decision should involve your OB-GYN or midwife, who knows your specific health context.
Sophie's approach: We discuss each pregnant client's situation individually and never pressure a decision either way. If you're uncertain, we'll suggest alternatives that give you beautifully groomed brows without any chemical solutions.
Why the Caution Exists
Brow lamination uses a keratin-based lotion with a chemical bonding agent to restructure the brow hairs. While the product is applied to a small area for a short period, the precaution is about minimising any potential chemical exposure during pregnancy — not a documented harm. The same caution applies to lash lifts, lash tints and most chemical brow treatments.
Safe Pregnancy Alternatives
If you're in your first trimester or prefer to avoid chemical treatments during pregnancy, these options are widely considered safe:
- Eyebrow threading: completely safe during pregnancy — no chemicals, purely mechanical hair removal
- Eyebrow waxing: generally considered safe during pregnancy; avoid if skin is extra-sensitive
- Brow tinting: many clients proceed after the first trimester — discuss with your provider
- Henna brows: plant-based, generally considered safer than chemical tints — discuss with your provider
For any beauty appointments during pregnancy, we recommend a brief chat with your OB-GYN or midwife beforehand. Eyebrow threading and shaping from $20 at both our Vancouver and Surrey studios. Book online or call 604-736-6245.