Hare Care Cancer Concerns
Jean Criss
Hair Care Cancer Concerns - You may have heard the recent news about the possibility that hair care products may be linked to cancer. On December 4, 2019 NBC Today reported about a study by the International Journal of Cancer that suggests the results of using hair dye and straighteners could play a role in breast carcinogenesis. The link was particularly evident in black women – their use of permanent dye was associated with 45% higher breast cancer risk, while white women faced a 7% higher risk. Straightener use was associated with 18% higher breast cancer risk (learn more here). There may be a higher propensity to breast cancer risks when using these products as noted in the study of 46,709 women enrolled.
It’s been well-known for years there may be a correlation of hair dyes, hair straightening products, bath and body care products, and UV nail lamps to have cancer causing risks – here’s an excerpt from a 2014 article by MD Anderson which elaborates such;
Have you been unknowingly increasing your cancer risk for the sake of beauty? It depends on what products you use.
“There are concerns with beauty products that contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These chemicals may interfere with your hormonal system,” says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., MD Anderson professor and director of the Integrative Medicine Program.
“While a direct link between EDCs and cancer is not yet definitive, certain cancers are hormonally-driven,” Cohen explains. They include breast, prostate, ovarian and endometrial cancers.
Other beauty and personal care products contain small quantities of known cancer-causing chemicals. “Even a low dose should cause concern, especially if you use the product every day,” Cohen says.
But don’t cancel your beauty appointment just yet. Currently, there are no definitive links to cancer. Instead, Cohen advises that you get informed and take proper precautions.
Today’s news made me think back to my recent experience, a shy 18-months ago (Sept 2018), with potential use of hair dye as reported in this CRISSCROSS Intimates Blog “To Dye For”.
To Dye For Blog Post: https://crisscrossintimates.com/blog/2018/10/2/to-dye-for?rq=red%20hair%20dye
Although I was diagnosed with breast cancer back in July 2007, I admit I’ve been using hair color for years prior to then and since that time. Mostly semi-permanents or henna’s originally to add a little lift with red highlights to my brown hair, and eventually, I switched to permanent hair color. A reddish-brown base with a few blonde highlights added to my face-frame. I just love the look and have continued even after this debacle I encountered while traveling on a business trip.
Hair coloring does require a bit of maintenance but after my horrific head-bearing experience, I immediately switched to organic hair colors. It was never confirmed whether my reactions were caused from red hair dye or a viral infection that affected my scalp causing such pain and infection. Nonetheless, I was treated for this severely debilitating problem over several weeks and it finally went away. I have not had a re-occurrence of the problem and have been fine.
I stayed away from hair straightening products for over a year and recently returned to Brazilian Blowout Express (a shorter, less invasive use of the chemicals). I also have my Stylist ensure the chemicals are not administered close to my scalp rather just on the ends of my hair where the hair straightening is needed most. A simple request you can make too. All these changes seem to work fine for me, and I do not use hair straightening shampoos regularly as recommended since they also have similar chemicals in them. Beauty manufacturers recommend daily or weekly use of these products and I prefer to use them minimally for the above reasons.
I share my experiences with you as hair colors may cause problems and it’s best to 1) have discussion with an “experienced” Hair Stylist and 2) discuss products with your Dermatologist or Allergist who know the usage and best impacts these chemicals may have with your autoimmune system.
I don’t think today’s news about Hair Care Cancer Concerns should be cause for alarm but it may be a rude-awakening about the potential links or side effects with use. It’s been a known fact that there may be multiple reasons and causes for Breast Cancer, and it is important to stay abreast of women’s and men’s health and wellness, and to follow your advice from both your Physicians and local Breast Cancer Research organizations. That’s why I ask people to donate to one of five leading BC Research companies when they Shop CrisscrossIntimates to continue the fight against breast cancer. You may donate any amount and to any of the five organizations of choice noted.
Our Crisscross Intimates Blog focus on articles about Inspiration and Breast Health and Wellness Advancements. Feel free to Share and LIKE our blog articles. We welcome your feedback too. For product or media inquiries, contact Jean Criss at info@crisscrossintimates.com.
