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A recent study raises concern about the potential health risks of inhaling chemicals found in hair care products, which are frequently used by people.
The recent study, which was published in the Environmental Science & Technology journal, discovered that multiple chemicals often present in hair care products remain in the air for an extended period of time after use.
According to a team of scientists from Purdue University, individuals can breathe in as much as 17 mg of harmful chemicals during one hair care session at home.
Study co-author Nusrat Jung expressed shock at the findings, noting the unexpectedly high levels of volatile chemical mixtures emitted by store-bought hair care products during regular hair care routines.
Scientists warn that decamethylcyclopentasiloxane, also known as D5 siloxane, which is commonly present in personal care products, can cause negative impacts on the respiratory tract, liver, and nervous system of laboratory animals.
According to Dr. Jung, the European Union has already limited the use of this chemical in wash-off cosmetic products.
She also mentioned that several of these items have pleasant scents, but the chemicals used in these fragrances can be harmful if inhaled.
Scientists state that although previous studies on animals have demonstrated the lasting presence of the D5 siloxane chemical in the environment and its ability to build up in organisms, there is limited knowledge on its effects on humans.
Dr. Jung stated that there is no clear understanding of the level of danger posed by inhaling these chemicals for a prolonged period of time.
Although there have been studies on the chemicals found in “wash-off” products such as shampoos, there is a lack of research on “leave-on” products like hair gels, oils, creams, waxes, and sprays.
Scientists say that using high temperatures on these substances, such as with hair straighteners and curling irons, can result in the release of additional chemicals into the air.
Dr. Jung explained that in urban areas, this is particularly important because there are numerous homes releasing potentially dangerous chemicals into the air during the morning rush as people prepare for work and school. This can occur on a large scale, with hundreds or even thousands of homes contributing to the urban atmosphere.
Researchers suggest that the optimal course of action would be to refrain from using these particular products.
Dr. Jung suggests using an exhaust fan while using the products to reduce the intake of chemicals as the next best option.
According to her, our model indicates that using the bathroom exhaust fan can decrease D5 inhalation exposure by more than 90%.
Dr. Jung suggested that there is a need for further study on the impact on both humans and the environment, and that appropriate regulatory measures should be implemented.
Source: independent.co.uk
