Recent research has examined the potential association between the use of certain hair care products and overall health and cancer risk in Black women. This is not just about the potential for visible harmful side effects.
“As a dermatologist for 30 years, I’ve seen many side effects that occur on the skin and scalp from commonly used hair products,” says Christy Hayes, M.D., a dermatologist in Medicine, Nebraska. . “These studies are extremely important to be aware of as lifelong consumers of various hair care products whose long-term safety has been properly questioned and reevaluated.”
of National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)is a division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) dedicated to understanding the role of environmental exposures in human disease.
Articles about Hair Care and Black Women’s Health And that Initiatives for women’s health awareness Until more information is available, NIEHS recommends reducing the use of curling irons, chemical relaxers, and permanent hair dyes, although not necessarily completely discontinuing them.
Historically, there was pressure from society to conform to European standards of beauty with straight hair. In the early 1900s, thermal (heat) styling was popular, but it was later replaced by permanent hair relaxers and is now widely used.
It is well documented that discrimination against natural hair textures exists in hiring, promotions, schools, and sports. The CROWN Act, enacted by Congress, Passed by the Nebraska State Legislature In 2021, we aim to raise awareness and end discrimination against natural hair in the workplace.
Healthy hair is beautiful hair
Beauty and uniqueness lies in the body, flexibility, and versatility of your hair. Caring for dark hair, whether curly, straight, coiled or wavy, requires patience and an individual approach.
“We recommend professional assistance when using chemical hair applications,” says Dr. Hayes. “We see scalp injuries, hair breakage, hair loss and inflammation all too often. There are so many products on the market today. If you need help deciding what’s best for you, ask for advice. Seeing a hair care professional regularly can help condition, condition, and keep your hair healthier.”
Curly hair tends to be dry due to the curl pattern
Hydration and humidity are key. Finding the right products that address hydration is essential for healthy hair and can also reduce hair breakage. The difference between new hair growth and previously loosened hair is a stress point. The longer you wait between uses of your chemical hair straightener, the better, as the use of chemicals and heat can cause hair dryness and breakage.
How you style and treat your hair is your choice, but be aware of the risks.
Whether it’s temporary or permanent, what you do with your hair is your choice. However, be aware that certain techniques and how often you use them can cause problems.
Chemical straighteners and permanent hair dyes have risks to consider.
- Burns or damage to the skin or scalp
- overheat the hair itself
- Chemical irritation or burns to the skin or scalp
- Skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis
- Overuse of chemical relaxers and permanent dyes causes hair breakage and hair loss
- Over time, an allergy to the chemicals contained in hair dye develops.
Learn more about the risks of hair color and curling irons.
To reduce your risk, keep your styling tools cool and avoid using heated tools more than once a week. Using semi-permanent, gradual or temporary hair dyes will cause less damage than permanent hair dyes.
Other important ways to protect your hair:
- Deep condition regularly and use a leave-in conditioner.
- Wash your scalp regularly with a mild shampoo and rinse out hair care products thoroughly.
- Keep hair naturally moisturized and use moisturizing products
- Detangles hair when wet.Start from the ends of your hair and gently work your way towards your scalp.
- Change up your hair care routine from time to time to protect your hair, scalp, and surrounding skin.
Consider protective alternatives that require less treatment of your hair, such as:
- Dreadlocks allow the hair to rest due to the lack of tension and the application of chemical heat.
- Braids, cornrows, and extensions are protective hairstyles. Make sure to change your pattern regularly to reduce hairline breakage and skin irritation that can lead to permanent hair loss.
- Wigs should be used with a satin cap to reduce chafing and breakage.
Everyone has a unique hair pattern and texture, and each person may react differently to hair products. “If your scalp is itchy, irritated, or scaly, see a dermatologist,” says Dr. Hayes. “If you have any concerns, please don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
