Last Updated:July 06, 2025, 08:01 IST
Ammonia, for instance, raises the hair’s pH and opens the outer layer to allow dye penetration
Chemical hair dyes, in particular, can weaken the hair, cause scalp irritation, and even pose serious health risks. (News18 Hindi)
Hair dye is widely used around the world for cosmetic purposes. Over the years, concerns have been raised about whether hair dye can increase the risk of cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified some chemicals found in hair dyes as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” This classification is based on evidence suggesting a slightly increased cancer risk particularly among individuals who are regularly exposed to hair dye as part of their occupation, such as hairdressers, barbers, and salon workers.
Scientific studies have examined whether the use of hair dye is linked to certain types of cancer, especially bladder cancer, blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, and breast cancer. While evidence from occupational settings shows a small but consistent increase in the risk of bladder cancer, the results are less clear for people who use hair dye occasionally at home. Some studies have shown a link between personal hair dye use and an increased cancer risk, while others especially those focused on modern products have not.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar Reddy Adapala, Department of Uro, Oncology & Robotics, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology Hyderabad shares all you need to know:
The potential risks are believed to stem from specific chemicals used in hair dye formulations. Ammonia, for instance, raises the hair’s pH and opens the outer layer to allow dye penetration. Hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleaching and oxidizing agent, breaking down natural pigment and helping the dye take effect. Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), an aromatic amine used in many permanent dyes, helps create long-lasting color through chemical reactions inside the hair shaft.
While these ingredients are effective, they can cause side effects. Ammonia may irritate the scalp, hydrogen peroxide can damage hair if overused, and PPD is known to trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. These chemicals can be absorbed through the scalp, enter the bloodstream, and get filtered by the kidneys eventually accumulating in the bladder. The inner lining of the bladder then becomes exposed to these substances, which may contribute to cancer development over time.
It’s important to note that older hair dye products used before the 1980s contained chemicals that posed greater health risks. Since then, formulations have been updated, and most modern dyes are considered safer. For individuals who dye their hair at home occasionally, current evidence does not show a significant cancer risk. However, those who are regularly exposed to hair dyes over many years particularly in occupational settings may face a slightly increased risk of bladder cancer.
In summary, occasional use of modern hair dyes is generally considered safe. Individuals with long-term occupational exposure should take precautions such as wearing gloves, working in well-ventilated spaces, and opting for safer product alternatives when available.
Final Verdict and Recommendation: It’s always preferable to minimize exposure to carcinogenic chemicals whenever possible.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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