A recent study published by the American Chemical Society has shed light on potential health risks associated with the use of hair products and styling tools. The research focuses on cyclic volatile methyl siloxanes (cVMS), commonly found in hair products, known for their ability to add shine and smoothness to hair – desirable qualities for managing frizz and preventing tangles.
The study, conducted in a controlled home environment, explored the impact of heating cVMS-containing hair products with tools such as hair straighteners and curling wands. Researchers measured emissions of cVMS and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a class of chemicals known to be harmful, with some linked to cancer.
The findings suggest that indoor hair care routines could have long-term consequences on inhalation exposures to VOCs and the broader urban atmospheric environment. Emissions from heated cVMS, particularly the chemicals decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), were notably increased during the trials.
D4 and D5 have been associated with severe health issues in animal studies, including fatal liver and lung damage. The study highlighted that factors such as the type of product, hair length, and the type and temperature of styling tools influenced emissions, with longer hair and higher temperatures resulting in higher VOC levels.
The researchers observed that using an exhaust fan helped clear the air within 20 minutes, but this practice could potentially impact outdoor air quality in densely populated cities.
The study authors raised concerns about the widespread use of leave-on hair care or styling products, noting that surveys indicate 16 to 70% of participants use these products. Considering the average use frequency and assuming a percentage of these products are siloxane-based, the total indoor-to-outdoor emission of D5 could reach 0.4 to 6 tons per year in the US, according to the researchers.
In light of these findings, the study authors emphasize the need for further research to understand the long-term human health effects of siloxane exposure. This study adds to a growing body of research revealing potential health risks associated with chemicals in hair care products, urging consumers to be mindful of the products they use.
