Is hair dye unhealthy?

Gather 'round. We'll tell you.

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In a Nutshell My hair has been a zillion different colors over the years –– purple, red, dark brown, black dipped ends, even frosted bangs in the early 2000s (yes, really, and no, you can't see a photo). I'd love to color it again, but I don't want to drop hundreds of dollars at the salon just to maintain it. Boxed hair dye also gets a bad rap. So, what do I do? Well, I researched which method might be best, and I'm sad to say I'm going to let my hair dye dreams die. Turns out there are some potential health risks no matter which option you choose. Find out what I learned below. Yup, you guessed it! First up are some new stories I think you'll like: • Signs and symptoms of low testosterone • 18 best protein sources for vegans and vegetarians • How much folate (vitamin B9) your body needs each day Be well, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Morgan Mandriota December 1, 2023 • 3 min read

what's got us buzzing This is your health on hair dye 🌈 Hair dye changes the chemical makeup of your hair. (Yes, even temporary color!) This can ultimately lead to hair damage. Personally, I've experienced dry, weakened strands, rashes around my hairline, and headaches from breathing in the fumes. In rare cases, people can experience an allergic reaction. If you develop breathing problems or swelling after coloring your hair, seek medical attention ASAP. 🤷‍♀️ It might pose a serious health threat. Newer research found that regularly using permanent hair dye and chemical relaxers might increase breast cancer risk, especially at a disproportionately high rate among Black women. More studies are needed to confirm this connection. In the meantime, consider checking out the American Cancer Society's guidelines on how to reduce your risk. ❎ Chemicals to watch out for. Dyes with bleach, henna, and P-phenylenediamine have been linked to side effects like skin irritation and brittle hair, so try to limit how often you use products with these ingredients. More "natural" products are available, but that doesn't mean they're better for your hair. After all, anything that alters its structure can cause damage! 🧑‍🦰 The goal is to protect your hair and health as best you can. Here are some things to keep in mind: Always do a patch test on a small area of your hair and scalp before applying dye to your whole head. Instead of using products, try vegetable extracts or ingredients like coffee and tea to dye your hair. Use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners for color-treated hair to repair damage. tips for repairing damaged hair

Great finds Heal your hair       Kérastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp and Hair Concentrate This plant-based scalp serum made Healthline's list of best hair growth products of 2023. Its formula contains ceramides, conditioning agents, green tea extract, and other healthy ingredients to help strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and add shine in as little as 7 days. Softly massage it into damp hair three times per week for the best results! Buy now Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health.

health stories you need What we're reading next 🧪 Best at-home nutrient and vitamin deficiency tests. Testing your levels of vitamins B, D, and E is as easy as 1-2-3 with these DIY kits. 🍭 How added sugars affect your body. Note to self: Stop eating so much candy. ❤️ Managing heart health in your 50s and beyond. An expert answers FAQ about heart disease, cardio exercises, specialist referrals, and more. 📱 What to know about tech neck. Do you hunch over your phone and computer? This is how that posture affects your spine and overall health.

Thanks for reading. I'd love to hear from other folks who enjoy coloring their hair. Have you noticed any negative health effects from using boxed hair dye? Let me know by emailing wellnesswire@healthline.com! (Please note that we may use your name and response in an upcoming edition.)

Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon!     This edition was powered by memories of fun hair.   View in browser Did a friend send you this email? Subscribe here. To see all newsletters, click here. Privacy    |    Unsubscribe Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. © 2023 Healthline Media LLC 275 7th Ave., 24th Floor New York, NY 10001