Is there a relationship between hair color and cancer?
Every time you use chemical hair dye, you are taking a big risk. This is because the National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 5,000 different chemicals are used in hair dye formulations.
Graying hair with age is not pleasing for many women and even men, or some may not like the natural color of their hair and prefer to change it to have a different look. Statistics show that nearly 74% of women and 16% of men, which means millions of people worldwide, use hair dye. Hair dyes, whose main components are made up of many chemicals, have been in use for some time. However, researchers have recently introduced non-toxic and organic hair dyes. These products, while maintaining hair health, are as long-lasting as conventional hair dyes, and using them is not as troublesome as chemical hair dyes.
Hair Color
Hair coloring is one of the most enjoyable beauty activities for women, and choosing the right hair color can make a significant change to a person's appearance, enhancing their beauty. On the other hand, hair dyes are among the most popular and versatile beauty products in the world, with a wide range of colors and brands. Women often seek an attractive and new hair color that suits their skin tone at least once a year.
What is hair color?
Changing hair color has been done using Henna for a very long time ago, but henna only turned hair red and had no other variations. On the other hand, with advancements in the field of cosmetics and hygiene product manufacturing, products called "hair dyes" were developed. Hair dye is a chemical substance. The first commercial hair dye product was created in 1909 by a French chemist named Eugène Schueller, using para-phenylenediamine. Today, hair coloring is a very popular practice; over 75% of women dye their hair, and an increasing number of men are also pursuing this option.
The primary use of hair color
Hair color is used for two main purposes:
- Covering gray and white hair: which is caused by aging, genetic factors, or even conditions like alopecia.
- Changing the hair's appearance: used to alter the natural hair color or change the color of previously dyed hair for cosmetic purposes.
How does hair dye cause a change in the natural color of hair?
The presence of melanin in hair is the reason for its color. Melanin varies in each individual, for example, one person may have black hair, while another may have golden hair. Hair colors come in different varieties, and to some extent, they can penetrate the hair shaft, causing temporary or semi-permanent changes in hair color.
Hair coloring results from a series of chemical reactions between the molecules present in the hair, pigments, as well as peroxide and ammonia. Different types of hair dyes exist, and their effects can be either short-term or long-lasting.
Types of hair colors based on their origin
1. Plant-based hair dyes:
For thousands of years, people worldwide have been coloring their hair using natural materials, plants, and minerals. Some of the natural plant-based materials used for natural hair coloring include Henna, Walnut Hull Powder from black walnut, Madder, Chamomile, and Rhubarb, which contain pigments. Natural pigments typically work by coloring the hair shaft. Some natural pigments may linger on the scalp through various shampoos. Achieving consistent results with natural pigments can be challenging, and some individuals may be sensitive to the ingredients in shampoos or herbal compounds.
2. Chemical hair dyes:
Chemical hair dyes are produced by cosmetics companies with specific formulas, which are divided into three categories based on their level of penetration into the hair strands and longevity. These hair dyes are available in the form of sprays, creams, or shampoos for use.
The ingredients in hair dyes
When hair dyes were first introduced to the market, the main ingredient in coal tar dyes caused allergic reactions in some individuals. Currently, most hair dyes are made from petroleum sources. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration still considers them as coal tar dyes because they contain some of the same compounds found in coal tar dyes.
1. Ammonia: Ammonia is the most important component in chemical hair dyes. It can open the hair cuticle and has alkaline properties that facilitate the transfer of color molecules to the hair cortex, allowing the hair to absorb the color. If the hair dye is temporary, ammonia remains on the hair's surface and fades away after a few washes. However, if it's permanent or semi-permanent, it can penetrate the hair shaft.
Side effects of ammonia:
- Hair loss in damaged hair
- Scalp itching
- Allergic reactions
- Burning sensation in the nose, throat, and eyes
- Facial swelling
3. Lead Acetate: Lead acetate is used as a coloring additive in advanced hair dyes. These products are used for a short period to gradually color the hair and have their own specific hazards.
Identify other harmful ingredients in hair dyes!
Each time you use chemical hair dyes, there is a significant risk because, according to the American Cancer Society, more than five thousand different chemicals are used in hair dye formulations. Many of these substances are known to be allergenic, disrupt endocrine glands, cause skin damage, and can penetrate into organs and body cells, and most importantly, are linked to cancer. However, the danger of some of these chemical compounds is higher than others, and it is essential to identify them for your safety.
Parabens: One of the chemical preservatives used in cosmetics, personal care products, and fragrances. The percentage of its use in formulations will be critical, as otherwise, it can be highly toxic and disrupt endocrine glands' functions. This chemical compound has even been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Resorcinol: A chemical compound that gradually disrupts the endocrine system and the body's organs, compromising the immune system. This substance is also allergenic and increases the risk of thyroid dysfunction.
Phenylenediamine: This chemical compound is one of the most common ingredients in hair dyes and is classified as a carcinogenic compound. Skin sensitivity, eye irritation, respiratory issues, and allergies are some of the consequences of using this type of chemical in hair dyes.
Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate: Allergies, skin sensitivities, and immune system weakening are among the adverse effects of this chemical compound in hair dyes. There is evidence suggesting it could lead to inflammation and cancer.
Fragrance: Fragrance is added to cover the chemical odors of other hair dye ingredients, but it can also have undesirable effects on the endocrine system and the skin.
The American Cancer Society has been warning for years that the chemical substances commonly found in hair dyes can be harmful and dangerous, especially for patients, pregnant women, and beauty salon workers.
The use of chemical hair dyes can have various adverse effects!
Multiple studies have linked the use of chemical hair dyes to a higher risk of certain cancers. Some researchers believe that excessive use of chemical hair dyes can increase the risk of bladder cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (a type of blood cancer). Breast cancer and allergies are among the most common consequences of chemical hair dye use.
Furthermore, repeated or improper use of hair dyes, especially permanent ones, can lead to hair damage and the development of hair thinning. Dryness, coarseness, and hair breakage can also result from the loss of hair's natural oils.
It's essential for individuals using hair dyes to be aware of these potential risks and consider them when deciding on their hair coloring choices. If there are concerns about these risks, exploring natural or less harmful alternatives may be a suitable option.
Frequent use of hair dye can lead to skin sensitivities, dandruff, itching, and even scalp redness. If the chemical ingredients in the dye are strong and the individual is sensitive to these substances, it may result in chemical burns on the scalp, which can have lasting effects. This sensitivity is often due to the presence of a substance called para-phenylenediamine (PPD) in hair dye. Common symptoms of this sensitivity include scalp redness, itching, burning, and the development of blisters and skin peeling. Due to the sensitivity that PPD can cause in some individuals, its use in hair dyes is prohibited in some countries, and in many hair dyes, the percentage of PPD has been significantly reduced. However, individuals who are sensitive to this substance should avoid using such hair dyes.
Health experts suggest that reducing the use of hair dye or refraining from using it until your hair starts to turn gray can potentially reduce the risk of cancer.
⚠️ Coloring your eyebrows or eyelashes is not recommended. The FDA has prohibited the use of hair dye for coloring eyelashes and eyebrows, even in beauty salons. Developing an allergic reaction to hair dye can lead to swelling and an increased risk of infection around your eyes. This issue can harm your eyes and even lead to vision problems and blindness . If dye accidentally gets into your eyes, it can cause permanent damage. It's best to avoid using hair dye near the eyes.
⚠️ Using chemical hair dye during pregnancy is not recommended. There is limited information available regarding the safety of using hair dye during pregnancy. It's possible that when you use hair dye, some of the chemical substances could be absorbed by your body and potentially enter your child's body. It is advised to avoid using hair dye during pregnancy. Additionally, even if the hair dye is not absorbed by the skin or body, inhaling the strong chemical smell and fumes from hair dye can be bothersome to the mother and the fetus.
Do hair dyes cause cancer?
Chemicals in hair dyes can be associated with various types of cancer, with lymphatic cancer being more commonly linked to hair dye. Researchers have been studying a possible link between hair dye use and cancer for many years.
There is a possibility that the risk of developing skin cancer may also increase after using hair dye.
In a study, over one-third of women over 18 years old and 10% of men over 40 years old who had used hair dye were examined. They had used over 5000 different chemical substances in their hair dyes, some of which are known to be carcinogens in humans and animals. Subsequently, research in this area became much more extensive, and researchers reached a definitive conclusion about the dangers of hair dyes. As a result, research never considers any type of hair dye to be safe and without risk. However, the risk increases when women consistently and frequently dye their hair.
Plant-based hair dyes
Henna is one of the plant-based dyes you can use to color your hair. This dye is non-toxic for the hair and doesn't cause any physical or chemical damage to the hair shaft. Henna can color the hair in about an hour and typically remains stable for up to 15 weeks. To color your hair with henna, you can mix henna powder with woad powder or coffee powder and then use the resulting paste for coloring the hair to adjust the reddish-orange color produced by henna.
In addition to henna, other plants are also commonly used for hair coloring in specific regions of the world. For example, a particular type of chamomile plant can create a bright yellow color. Since it only colors the outer layer of the hair, it can be used both for coloring and for making the hair brighter and shinier. These plants are usually easily obtainable from herbal shops.
The benefits of plant-based hair dyes
- Natural and Safe: Plant-based hair dyes are entirely natural and free from harmful chemicals like ammonia or other synthetic compounds. This makes them a safer choice for coloring your hair without the risk of adverse effects.
- Hair Health: These dyes can help maintain the softness, moisture, and overall health of your hair. The plant ingredients often contain nutrients that can nourish and strengthen your hair.
- Strengthening Hair: Plant-based dyes are known for their potential to strengthen hair, reducing issues like hair loss and breakage.
- Added Volume: These dyes can provide additional volume to your hair, making it look fuller and thicker.
- Controlling Scalp Issues: Plant-based dyes may help control scalp problems, such as excess oiliness, dandruff, and itchiness.
- Natural Color: Plant-based dyes offer a natural-looking hair color that blends well with your existing shade, creating a more subtle and less dramatic change.
- Pregnancy-Friendly: Plant-based dyes are often safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding since they lack harmful chemicals.
- Warm Temperament: Some plant-based dyes have warm temperament, which can be suitable for various hair types and preferences.
It's important to note that while plant-based dyes offer numerous benefits, the final color outcome may vary based on your natural hair color, the specific plant ingredients used, and the application method. These dyes tend to work by coating the hair shaft rather than penetrating it like chemical dyes, resulting in a more temporary and subtle color change.
Why Use Plant-Based Hair Dye?
Today, most hair products like hair dyes are filled with chemical ingredients that provide stunning colors to your hair but can also cause serious damage. That's why it's time to consider plant-based hair dye. They are much safer since they don't contain harmful chemical and toxic substances. Plant-based dyes are an excellent choice, especially for those who are sensitive to various chemical ingredients. By using plant-based hair dyes, you bring multiple benefits to your hair that conventional hair dyes lack.
Benefits of Switching to Natural Plant-Based Hair Dyes
1. They Don't Cause Damage
There's no need to mention that one of the significant advantages of plant-based hair dyes is that they don't damage your hair. This is because they don't contain chemical ingredients and other harmful substances that can harm your hair.
2. They Preserve Hair Texture
Regular hair dyes can weaken and alter the texture of your hair. Fortunately, plant-based hair dyes don't have this effect. They preserve the natural texture of your hair and, as a result, don't cause harm to your hair.
3.They Soften the Hair
The presence of natural ingredients in plant-based hair dyes has beneficial effects on your hair. The components in these dyes work to soften your hair. As a result, your hair becomes soft, shiny, and strong.
4. Safe for Use During Pregnancy
For many pregnant women, the use of chemical hair dyes during pregnancy can be a significant concern due to the abundance of chemicals in regular hair dyes that can have harmful effects on the fetus. However, with plant-based hair dyes, there is no need for such concerns because they do not contain any chemical substances, and using them during pregnancy is safe.