We all want to look beautiful. So, coloring our hair has become a common thing among many people, especially young people. Many people color their hair not only to cover up damaged hair, but also as a fashion statement. But have you ever thought about how safe this hair dye really is for your body? Some say it causes cancer, others say it doesn't. So what's the truth about this? Let's find out exactly about it today.
What's really in hair dye? Is there a risk of cancer?
In the past, when hair dyes were first developed, they used a chemical called `coal-tar`. This caused some people to have skin allergies. Most hair dyes on the market today are made from petroleum-based compounds. However, agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States still consider these to be the same as the old `coal-tar` dyes. The reason for this is that these new dyes contain the same chemicals as the old ones.
Now let's talk about the biggest problem everyone has: the risk of cancer.
There are actually different opinions on this. Some medical studies have found that there may be a link between frequent use of hair dye and an increased risk of certain types of cancer (for example, bladder cancer ). However, many other studies have also failed to find such a link.
Simply put, it has not been scientifically proven 100% that hair dye causes cancer. But, it cannot be said that it is 100% safe either.
Another thing is that many hair dyes, like other cosmetics, are not subjected to the same rigorous safety testing that other products undergo. Manufacturers have removed some of the chemicals that were previously found to cause cancer in animals from hair dyes. Instead, they have added other chemicals that are very similar to them. So some experts say that these new products are no different from the old ones.
Therefore, to reduce the risk, doctors suggest that it is best to reduce the number of times you color your hair as much as possible, or wait until your hair starts to deteriorate before coloring it.
Safety tips to follow when coloring your hair
If you are a hair dye user, be sure to follow these tips. If you follow them properly, you can avoid unnecessary health risks.
| Safety Tip | Why is it important? (Why is it Important?) |
|---|---|
| Be sure to do the 'Patch Test' | This is the most important thing. Before applying the dye to your head, apply a small amount behind your ear or on the inside of your elbow and leave it for about two days without washing it off. Only apply it to your head if you don't experience any allergic symptoms like itching, redness, or burning. Even if it's a brand you use every day, do this test every time. |
| Follow the instructions on the package exactly. | Read the instructions on the hair dye package carefully. Follow the instructions exactly, such as how long to leave the dye on your head and how to mix it. |
| Wear gloves. | Be sure to wear gloves when applying the dye, otherwise the chemicals may damage the skin on your hands. |
| Never dye your eyebrows or eyelashes. | Don't even think about it. It is illegal to use hair dye on eyelashes or eyebrows. If you get an allergic reaction, your eyes can swell, become infected, and even go blind. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, it can cause permanent damage. |
| Do not mix different dyes. | Never mix dye from one brand with dye from another. Their chemicals can react with each other and become dangerous. |
| Wash your head thoroughly. | After applying the dye, rinse the scalp thoroughly with water. Any remaining dye can be harmful to the skin. |
Learn more about this 'Progressive' Hair Dye
Some hair dyes are called "progressive." These do not color the hair all at once. They color the hair gradually, over several days of use. They contain a chemical called `Lead Acetate.` If you use these, you must follow the instructions on the package exactly. Also, these products must include this warning:
"Warning: Contains Lead Acetate. For external use only. Keep this product out of the reach of children. Do not use on cuts or abrasions on the scalp. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use. Do not use to color hair on moustaches, eyelashes, eyebrows, or any part of the body other than the scalp. Do not get in eyes. Follow instructions carefully and wash hands thoroughly after use."
Is it okay to dye your hair during pregnancy?
This is a question that many mothers have. To be honest, there hasn't been much research done on the safety of using hair dye during pregnancy.
But according to current information, when you dye your hair, only a very small amount of it is absorbed through the skin. Therefore, the chances of harming the baby in the womb from those chemicals are very low. Several animal and human studies have also found no difference in the growing baby.
But the best and safest thing to do is to talk to your doctor before coloring your hair, if you have any doubts or fears about this. He or she will give you the best advice based on your situation.
Take-Home Message
- The link between hair dye and cancer has not yet been scientifically proven. However, since there may be risks, it is wise to limit use as much as possible.
- Every time you color your hair, don't be lazy and definitely do a 'Patch Test'. This is the best way to avoid allergies .
- Never, for any reason, use hair dye to color your eyebrows or eyelashes. It can cause serious damage to your eyes.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, be sure to consult your doctor before using hair dye.
- Always follow the instructions on the hair dye package exactly. Do not leave the dye on your hair for longer than the recommended time.
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