If you're one of the millions of people who use hair relaxers to straighten your hair, you may be wondering if they could be causing cancer.
It's a valid concern, given the potential dangers of chemical hair straightening products.
In recent years, there has been growing evidence linking hair relaxers to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.
In this article, we'll explore the truth behind this controversial topic and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not to use hair relaxers.
Hair relaxers are chemical products used to straighten curly or wavy hair.
They work by breaking down the protein bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped and straightened.
Hair relaxers typically contain a combination of chemicals, including lye or other alkaline compounds and guanidine hydroxide.
These chemicals can be harsh on the hair and scalp and can cause a range of side effects, from minor irritation to chemical burns.
There is growing evidence linking hair relaxers to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
In a study published in the International Journal of Cancer, researchers found that women who used hair relaxers were at a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who did not use these products.
The study also found that the risk increased with the frequency risk duration of use.
Other studies have also found a potential link between hair relaxers and cancer.
For example, a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that women who used hair relaxers were at a higher risk of developing uterine leiomyomata (fibroids).
Another study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that hairdressers who used hair relaxers on a regular basis were at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
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An infatuation with straight hair may make you visit the salon for hair straightening to boost your self-worth, but it can jeopardize your health immensely.
A study by the National Institutes of Health in the U.S. has revealed that the regular use of hair relaxers made women twice as likely to develop uterine cancer as those who did not use them.
Researchers have found a strong link between usage of hair relaxers, hair straighteners, and keratin smoothing products and the development of cancer.
Clinical trials and innumerable studies demonstrate that hair straightening products dry out your hair, increase hair breakage, trigger hair thinning, and cause split-ends.
Nonetheless, women brave all of this to adhere to the foolish beauty standards set out by society.
However, chemically straightening your hair can unfortunately turn malignant.
Some of the dangers of chemical hair straightening products include:
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A hair straightener is a cream that breaks down the protein structure of your hair to straighten it.
It is packed with cyclosiloxanes, formaldehyde, parabens, diethanolamine, sodium hydroxide, phthalates, triclosan, and benzophenone-3, all of which cause a whole lot of medical issues.
Keratin smoothing products smooth the hair shaft. They are packed with formaldehyde, which is a carcinogen.
The FDA has warned against using formaldehyde, and you absolutely must steer clear of straightening treatments that contain formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is known to trigger headaches, giddiness, nausea, rashes, and cancer in both the client and the salon worker.
Not all hair relaxers are equally dangerous, but most contain chemicals that can be harmful to the hair and scalp. Some hair relaxers are marketed as "natural" or "organic," but they may still contain chemicals that can cause side effects.
If you choose to use hair relaxers, there are steps you can take to minimise the risks. These include: Choosing a hair relaxer that is as gentle as possible and avoiding products that contain lye or other harsh chemicals Following the instructions carefully and not leaving the product on the hair for longer than recommended Using protective gloves and avoiding getting the product on the scalp or skin Rinsing the hair thoroughly with water after using the product Avoiding using hair relaxers too frequently and giving the hair time to recover between treatments. Regularly moisturising and conditioning the hair will keep it healthy and strong.
The decision to stop using hair relaxers is a personal one that depends on your individual circumstances and concerns. If you're worried about the potential link between hair relaxers and cancer, you may want to consider other ways to style your hair, such as braiding, twisting, or using a flat iron. You could also try a natural hair care routine that focuses on using gentle, nourishing ingredients to keep your hair healthy and strong.
The question of whether hair relaxers are causing cancer is a complex and controversial one.
While there is growing evidence linking these products to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, more research is needed to fully understand the potential dangers.
If you choose to use hair relaxers, it's important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your hair.
By choosing gentle products, following the instructions carefully, and taking good care of your hair, you can minimize the potential dangers of chemical hair straightening products and keep your hair looking and feeling its best.
Remember, the most important thing is to make an informed decision that works for you and your individual circumstances.
