Hair care products, commonly utilized for achieving the desired look, may carry health implications when paired with heat styling techniques, according to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology. Researchers found that these products, laden with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like siloxanes, contribute to rapid changes in indoor air composition, with heat styling intensifying the release of VOCs.
While prior studies have explored siloxane emissions from personal care products, most focused on items that are washed off the body, neglecting those left on the hair. Moreover, few studies investigated real-time changes in indoor air quality during active hair styling.
Nusrat Jung and her team sought to address these gaps by examining VOCs released from hair products in real-world scenarios, such as small bathrooms where they are commonly applied.
Key Findings:
1. Real-time Emissions during Hair Styling: The researchers set up a ventilated tiny house where participants used various hair products, including creams, sprays, and oils, alongside heated tools for styling. Real-time measurements revealed rapid changes in indoor air composition, with cyclic volatile methyl siloxanes (cVMS) being the predominant VOCs detected.
2. Influence of Product Type and Hair Length: Emissions were influenced by product type, hair length, and the type and temperature of the styling tool. Longer hair and higher temperatures were associated with higher VOC release.
3. Potential Inhalation Exposure: The study estimated that a person’s potential daily inhalation of one cVMS, D5, could reach up to 20 mg per day, raising concerns about cumulative exposure.
4. Impact of Exhaust Fans: Turning on an exhaust fan significantly reduced air pollutants within 20 minutes after a hair care routine. However, the researchers noted that this practice could impact outdoor air quality in densely populated cities.
Conclusion and Urgent Need for Further Research:
The findings underscore the need for studies investigating the long-term health impacts of siloxane exposure, as existing knowledge is primarily derived from animal studies. With heat styling exacerbating VOC release, the potential health risks associated with inhaling these compounds during routine hair care activities warrant thorough examination.
As individuals continue to prioritize both style and health, understanding the implications of common beauty practices becomes increasingly vital.
