Looking Good in Later Life 18
                                                2002

Jeanne Davis asks Cancer Research UK: DOES HAIR DYE CAUSE CANCER?

“We don’t really know the answer to this yet”, reports Cancer Research UK. Some research has indicated there may be an increased risk of bladder cancer, while other research has suggested that there isn’t.   

The problem with current knowledge is that it’s just too limited. Some studies have considered different types of dyes and others haven’t covered the range. Some studies are thought to have been too small to show up any small increase in risk. At the moment it is impossible to completely rule out hair dye as a possible contributing cause of bladder cancer. But at the same time there isn’t enough evidence to absolutely prove such a link exists.

Which type of hair dye?

There is no evidence at all that semi-permanent or wash-out hair dyes are linked with bladder cancer. The concern centres on permanent hair dyes that contain oxidative chemicals to bleach the hair, such as hydrogen peroxide. 

There have been two large and well-conducted studies investigating hair dye and bladder cancer, and these have produced conflicting results. The first, from the American Cancer Society study, conducted in 1982, did not find any association between bladder cancer and hair dye use. 

The second, from Los Angeles,  reported in February 2001 that long-term, regular use of permanent hair dye could increase the risk of developing bladder cancer. This study estimates that risk may increase by two if hair dye is used monthly for more than fifteen years. The researchers found the risk was highest in smokers who regularly used hair dyes. Smoking is a recognised risk factor for bladder cancer. 

Evidence on other cancers

The American Cancer Society study looked at other types of cancer, apart from bladder cancer. They found that using black dye for more than ten years was associated with a very small increase in risk of death from multiple myeloma. Using black or dark brown dye for more than ten years was associated with a very small increase in risk of death from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  

But it is important to remember that this is only one study. And these were very small differences indeed for such a large study. The researchers concluded that, if there was any risk at all, it was unlikely to be a major factor. 

After the Los Angeles study was published in 2001, an EEC body called The Scientific Committee on Cosmetic and Non-Food Products representing consumers asked the hair dye industry to provide evidence that its products are safe. The Committee later criticised the industry for failing to do this. 

The link with bladder cancer

Information is emerging about how hair dye might affect bladder cancer risk. Small amounts of chemicals called arylamines are absorbed through the skin when hair dyes are used. The arylamines are made harmless and removed from the body through the urine, so they come into contact with the bladder.  

The most recent piece of research has suggested that our genetic makeup affects the way we deal with arylamines. We have genes that make proteins called enzymes, which make the chemicals harmless before they are excreted from the body. Some people have genes that make ‘fast’ versions of these enzymes and others have ‘slow’ versions. Those with ‘slow’ versions may be at an increased risk of developing bladder cancer if they use hair dyes very often over a long period of time. But no one as yet can identify who has fast or slow enzymes.   

How to reduce the risk  

• Consider using semi-permanent or wash-out dyes

• Don’t smoke - remember the biggest risk factor for bladder cancer is smoking

• If you prefer permanent dyes, try to use them less frequently and choose lighter shades

• Look at the range of  natural hair dyes available in healthfood stores.  A semi-permanent from Naturtint is available in nine natural colour shades that last 6-7 washes and can hide early or fine grey hair. (Price £6.49 - for more information on the product visit the website: www.naturesdream.co.uk)

• Another permanent hair colouring that covers all grey and is free of ammonia and resorcinol, comes from the company Hints of Nature. They produce a wide range of colours and also sell companion shampoos and conditioners. To get their catalogue either email: sales@herbuk.com or ring 01202 447188

Previous editions of Looking Good in laterlife 

Edition 1 (including a visit to Estee Lauder)

Edition 2 (including a visit to Clarins)

Edition 3 (including a visit to Medestea Internazionale

Edition 4 (including a visit to Martha Hill Skincare)

Edition 5 (including a visit to Harrods)

Edition 6 (Including a visit to Belgravia Centre)

Edition 7 (Including a visit to Vichy Laboratoire)

Edition 8 (Including a visit to Avene Spa)

Edition 9 (Including fashion tips)

Edition 10 eyebrows, eyelashes, sun and skin

Edition 11 (Including a visit to Lasercare Clinics)

Edition 12 - Lasercare Clinics offer their expertise on common skin conditions

Edition 13 - Ageing skin in the new millennium

Edition 14 - A visit to Helen Sher

Edition 15 -  More from Helen Sher and Lasercare Clinics

Edition 16  A visit to Champneys London Clubs    

laterlife.com occasionally visits one of the great cosmetic houses, up-and-coming beauty collections or other organisations of interest to the more mature visitor.

Edition 1 Estee Lauder

Edition 2 Clarins

Edition 3 Medestea Internazionale

Edition 4 Martha Hill Skincare

Edition 5 Harrods
Edition 6 The Belgravia Centre

Edition 7 Vichy Laboratoire

Edition 8 Avene Spa  

Edition 11 Lasercare Clinics

Edition 14 - Helen Sher

Edition 16  A visit to Champneys London Clubs    

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