There’s something about changing up your hair color that just brings you back to life. It’s been a thing throughout history with Romans, Egyptians, even Hollywood celebs – they all had this thing for hair color that sparked a whole industry. Going to the salon became a status symbol that helps you stand out or look attractive. Otherwise it showed you didn’t have a sense of what is modern or cared about your appearance. And let’s be real, when we see someone with killer hair, it’s hard not to be blown away. That bombshell blonde, that sultry brunette, that shiny-as-heck dye job – it’s all part of the magic. What we don’t think about is the ammonia that it takes to get you that look. It is invisible just as the person who doesn’t go to the salon.
Few worry about carcinogens or endocrine disruptors in hair color to the point where they avoid it completely. As we are becoming more aware of cancer-causing toxins in our food and many more potential health hazards every day why the majority be less reluctant to color their hair.
Here’s the thing – if a trip to the salon gives you a mental boost, boosts your confidence, or just helps you rock your style, isn’t that a form of self-care? Sometimes, vanity wins out over those “what ifs,” especially when we’re not dropping dead during a color process. And if hairstylists, who are practically swimming in chemicals, look healthy, what’s the big deal? Even the sun can be a double-edged sword, right? It gives us Vitamin D and helps with sleep, but too much of it is said to cause Cancer.
Take a stroll through a beauty convention, and you’ll notice it’s like a hunger games arena, but for the under-40 crowd. It’s not that common for younger people to worry about the toll chemicals take on their bodies. It’s pretty common these days to notice younger people applying new cosmetic enhancements internally and externally. The majority of us stylists, especially those from humble beginnings, the hunger to learn and succeed is real. And let’s be honest, what’s success without a little power struggle?
With Google at our fingertips, we’ve got access to all sorts of studies about the chemicals in hair color. But here’s the kicker, we still can’t say for sure how those chemicals seep into our bodies. Color applied to skin leave a stain, however we don’t have an understanding of how it’s effects us internally given the time frame and formulation guidelines. So long as they are met without any immediate bodily harm it is considered safe thanks to the ol’ Roosevelt and the Federal Drug and Cosmetic Act of ’38.
Now, imagine if some big study came out saying hair dye is a straight-up health hazard. Do you think people would stop coloring their hair? Doubt it. It’s become such a big part of the industry, with all the education and investments. Plus, let’s not forget, for many, it’s a major confidence booster. But hey, things are shifting to a more natural look or even holistic approach. More people are waking up to the potential risks and opting out of the dye game. Salons are adapting too, with some going green or ditching chemical services altogether. There’s even talk of using hair for garments in some places, which is wild.
The good news? You’ve got options. Do your research, find a salon that aligns with your values. As for me, I’ve streamlined my services to focus on low-maintenance colors that last. It’s a win-win for folks who want a pop of color without the fuss and expense. I truly believe we’ll see better, safer hair dye options down the road. But in the meantime, if you’ve got concerns, talk to your stylist or chat with friends who color their hair. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look your best, as long as it’s not at the expense of your health.
Sources
https://publications.iarc.fr/75
https://whyy.org/segments/does-pretty-hurt-a-look-at-the-health-risks-of-hair-dyes/#:~:text=So through our skin or,which is derived from petroleum.
