Potential cancer-causing ingredients commonly found in haircare products

Cancer is a complex disease, and its exact causes are not fully understood.  One of the potential risk factors identified, is the exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).

So, what are endocrine disruptors?  EDCs are substances that can interfere with the body’s endocrine system, which is responsible for regulating hormones.  EDCs can mimic, block or interfere with the body’s natural hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, leading to various adverse health effects, including reproductive issues, metabolic disruptions, infertility and certain hormone-related cancers.  Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells are dependent on hormones like estrogen and progesterone for growth.  EDC’s can cause a prolonged exposure to estrogen that can increase the risk of HR-positive breast cancer.

Potential EDCs that are found in personal care products include:

  • Parabens, such as methylparaben and propylparaben, are preservatives used in many personal care products to prolong the shelf life of products.
  • Silicones, derived from Silozanes, are often used in serums and leave-in conditioners.
  • Ethanolamines, such as DEA and TEA, are used in shampoos as emulsifiers or pH adjusters.
  • Phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate (DEP) is commonly used in fragrances found in shampoos, conditioners and other hair products.
  • Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent that has been used in some haircare products to prevent fungal growth in formulations.
  • Oxybenzone is often found in hair products with sun protection properties.

Other potential carcinogens (substances known to cause cancer) that are commonly found in haircare products include:

  • Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, and exposure to formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing ingredients can cause various health problems, including skin irritation and respiratory issues.  As a result, several countries have restricted or banned the use thereof in cosmetics and personal care products, including hair straightening and hair smoothing products such as “keratin treatments”.
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are sometimes included in hair dyes and colorants.
  • Lead Acetate was historically used in some hair dyes to darken hair color.
  • Coal tar or often used in anti-dandruff shampoos.

It is important to understand the ingredients contained in your haircare products.  Regulatory agencies have specific rules and regulations regarding the use and disclosure of ingredients in personal care products.  If you cannot read the fine print of the ingredients on the bottle, choose haircare products from reputable brands with a good safety record that adhere to the stringent regulations as set by e.g. the European Union or the FDA.   And be on the look-out for products labelled as “paraben free”, “silicone free” and “formaldehyde free” to ensure that you use safe products that do not contribute to your risk of getting cancer.

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