A recent study has revealed that hairstylists, particularly those serving Black and Latina women, are exposed to high levels of harmful airborne chemicals in their workplaces. The research, published in the Journal of Environmental Exposure Assessment, is the first to specifically measure the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in US hair salons catering to this demographic.
Previous studies found that Black and Hispanic hairstylists had higher chemical levels from hair relaxers, dyes, and other products compared to office workers. However, this study took it further by assessing air concentrations of VOCs in 16 salons and comparing them with office spaces.
The findings showed that the VOC levels in salons were significantly higher—ranging from two to 175 times more than in office environments. This stark contrast is primarily due to the chemicals used in salon products, such as relaxers, straighteners, and smoothing treatments.
Lesliam Quirós-Alcalá, the senior author of the study and an associate professor at Johns Hopkins University, emphasized the need for manufacturers to focus on creating safer products. She pointed out that hairstylists, many of whom are in their reproductive years, face heightened health risks, including potential neurodevelopmental, reproductive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and cancer-related issues due to prolonged exposure to these chemicals.
The study also highlights the compounded challenges faced by Black and Latina hairstylists—who make up about 30% of the workforce. Limited access to healthcare, combined with exposure to both chemical and non-chemical stressors, exacerbates the risks and contributes to significant environmental health disparities within this group.
To reduce exposure, Quirós-Alcalá suggests practical solutions like improving ventilation by opening doors and windows during chemical treatments and using fans, air purifiers, masks, and gloves. These measures could drastically lower exposure to harmful VOCs and other chemicals in salon settings.
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