Does Hair Coloring Have Adverse Medical Effects?

People who color their hair to cover gray may dye their one a month, which increases their chances of developing certain cancers, some studies say.

Some people dye their hair to cover the gray, some may not like their natural hair color and others just like to have fun altering their looks a bit. This seemingly safe procedure may have some serious adverse medical effects. The health risks increase depending on the type of dye, the frequency of applications and when the person began dying his hair.

Cancer

According to the National Cancer Institute, "Over 5,000 different chemicals are used in hair dye products, some of which are reported to be carcinogenic (cancer-causing) in animals." Because of concerns about carcinogens, most manufacturers began reformulating hair dyes in the 1970s. Hair dyes used since 1980 are likely to have fewer health consequences. Although no definite proof exists that hair dyes cause cancer, researchers have found a link between some dyes and blood and bone marrow cancers, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemia, as well as breast and bladder cancer. Researchers at the University of Southern California found that those who dye their hair regularly -- once a month -- for 15 years or more have a three times greater risk of developing bladder cancer. They also found that stylists working in salons for one year increase their risk of bladder cancer by 50 percent compared to those who do not work in the cosmetology field. Those who work in salons for more than 10 years have a five times greater risk.

Pregnancy Issues

Many women hear from friends and doctors that they should refrain from coloring and/or bleaching their hair during pregnancy. This is because small traces of the chemicals in hair dye may be absorbed through the skin and affect the fetus. Another issue is that when dying hair, the mother breathes in chemicals from the hair dye. Breathing the fumes may be harmful to fetal development. One dangerous chemical found in hair dyes that can be breathed in or possibly absorbed into the skin is lead acetate, a known carcinogen,

Chemical Burns

Some people experience an allergic reaction or chemical burns from hair dyes or bleaches. Many dark hair dyes use coal tar to achieve dark pigmentation. This substance is easily absorbed through the scalp and can cause burns or even hair loss. Hair dye and bleach can both cause serious burns if left on the hair too long or if the user has sensitive skin. In more serious cases, hair dye and/or bleach chemical burns can actually cause parts of the scalp to tear away, requiring plastic surgery to repair the damaged skin and hair loss.

Other Health Issues

According to Surviving HairLoss, some researchers have found that lead acetate may cause blood clots, negatively affect motor development and cause problems with heart and neurotransmitter function. To get a new hair color without as many chemicals or potential problems, use temporary hair color. Although they still contain chemicals, temporary hair dyes are a safer choice.

References

• National Cancer Institute: Hair Dyes and Cancer Risk
• American Pregnancy Association: Hair Treatment During Pregnancy
• Surviving Hairloss: How Much Do You Know About Hair Coloring?

Resources

• University of Southern California: Study Points to Bladder Cancer Risk From Long-Term Hair Dye Use
• Acta Dermato-Venereologica: Chemical Burns to the Scalp from Hair Bleach and Dye