Ask A Scientist General Science Archive

name         Leslie P.
status       other
age          50s

Qestion -   Recently there was a health news program in San Francisco
alerting women about the dangers of permanent hair dye.  It state that
women who used permanent hair dye once a month had a 25% higher rte of
bladder cancer.  I know that the issue of hair dye and cancer hasbeen
talked about for many years.  What is the real risk?  Would usinga
semi-permanent dye be any better?  Very concerned, thanks, Leslie
-----------------
Leslie,

Except at its attachment point in the scalp, hair is dead tissue that cannot
transmit toxins to the body. Thus, the hazard from hair dyes is related to
the composition and amount of dye that can actually penetrate the scalp and
enter the bloodstream during application, and from residues which may remain
thereafter. In order to judge the relative safety of any dye (permanent or
temporary), one would need data on its toxicity. This information may not be
readily available. I realize it may be a heresy to the cosmetic industry and
to those who simply feel that they must alter the color of their hair;
nevertheless, the safest color by far is hair's natural color.

Regards,
ProfHoff 425
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