It’s something that many women do regularly without thinking twice, but if you dye your hair, you may unknowingly be increasing your risk of developing breast cancer.
A new study by researchers at the National Institutes of Health has revealed that women who use permanent hair dye and chemical hair straighteners have a higher risk of developing the disease.
In the study, the researchers analysed data from 46,709 women, and found that those who had used permanent hair dye in the year prior to enrolling in the study were 9% more likely to develop breast cancer than those who didn’t dye their hair.
Meanwhile, using chemical hair straighteners was found to increase the women’s risk of breast cancer by about 30%.
Worryingly, among African American women, using permanent hair dyes every five to eight weeks or more was associated with a 60% increased risk, compared to an 8% increased risk for white women.
Dr Alexandra White, who led the study, said: “Researchers have been studying the possible link between hair dye and cancer for a long time, but results have been inconsistent.
“In our study, we see a higher breast cancer risk associated with hair dye use, and the effect is stronger in African American women, particularly those who are frequent users."
While the reason for these findings remain unclear, the researchers hope their results will encourage further studies into hair products and cancer.
Dr Dale Sandler, co-author of the study, said: “We are exposed to many things that could potentially contribute to breast cancer, and it is unlikely that any single factor explains a woman's risk.
“While it is too early to make a firm recommendation, avoiding these chemicals might be one more thing women can do to reduce their risk of breast cancer."
