Cancer Risk

If you have been affected by cancer related to salon work, you’re not alone.

Cancer Risks from Salon Chemicals:

Research has identified potential links between occupational exposure to salon chemicals and an increased risk of various cancers among hairdressers and salon workers. Key findings from several studies include:

Bladder Cancer

• A meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Epidemiology reported a small but consistent increased risk of bladder cancer among male hairdressers and barbers, likely due to prolonged exposure to certain chemicals in hair dyes.
  Oxford Academic

Breast Cancer

• The Women’s Voices for the Earth report highlighted studies indicating that hair salon workers have an elevated risk of breast cancer, potentially linked to long-term chemical exposure in salon environments.
  Women’s Voices

Respiratory and Skin Conditions

• The same report noted that over 60% of salon workers suffer from skin conditions like dermatitis, and are more likely than office workers to experience respiratory issues such as cough and nasal irritation, due to chemical exposures.
  The Lund Report

Formaldehyde Exposure

• Hair smoothing treatments, such as Brazilian Blowouts, have been found to release formaldehyde-a known carcinogen-during application, posing health risks to salon workers.
  Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Regulatory Perspectives

• The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies occupational exposures of hairdressers and barbers as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” based on observed increased risks of certain cancers.
  National Library of Medicine
  

These findings underscore the importance of implementing safety measures, such as proper ventilation, use of personal protective equipment, and regular health screenings, to mitigate the risks associated with chemical exposures in salon settings. For further tips and resources to ensure you’re keeping yourself and your clients safe, check out our Education page.

ARTICLES WORTH READING PERTAINING TO CANCER RISKS:

5 Hair Stylist Health Issues To Talk About
www.simplyorganicbeauty.com

Cancer Rates Among Salon and Spa Workers
www.pdcenterlv.com/blog/cancer-rates-among-salon-and-spa-workers/

Use of Permanent Hair Dyes and Bladder Cancer Risk
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11251984/

We stand with stylists affected by cancer. No stylist should have to endure their cancer fight alone.

Ways to Support a Loved One with Cancer

When a loved one, friend, colleague, or client faces cancer, the best way to support them is to be present, compassionate, and thoughtful. This guide provides actionable steps to show support in meaningful ways.

1. Offer Practical Help

• Transportation: Offer rides to medical appointments or treatments.
• Errands: Volunteer to pick up groceries, prescriptions, or other essentials.
• Household Tasks: Help with cleaning, laundry, or meal preparation.

2. Be Emotionally Available

• Listen Actively: Allow them to share without fear of judgment.
• Check In Regularly: Send messages or make calls to show you care.
• Respect Boundaries: Honor their preferences for sharing details or socializing.

3. Create a Positive Environment

• Personalized Support: Share uplifting books, music, or quotes tailored to their interests.
• Companionship: Spend quality time together, even if it’s just watching a movie or sitting in silence.
• Small Gestures: Surprise them with flowers, a meal, or a comforting gift.

4. Financial and Logistical Assistance

• Organize Support Groups: Coordinate with others to ensure consistent help.
• Fundraising: Help organize fundraisers if they’re facing financial challenges.
• Research Resources: Share information about financial aid, support programs, or counseling services.

5. Tips for Salon Professionals Supporting Clients

• Adjust Services: Offer shorter appointments or at-home visits if needed.
• Create Comfort: Keep conversations light and uplifting unless they choose to discuss their diagnosis.
• Be Flexible: Work around treatment schedules with understanding and empathy.

Additional Resources for Support

1. American Cancer Society: 24/7 Helpline
2. CancerCare Counseling: Explore Support Groups
3. Financial Assistance Resources: Find Aid
4. MyLifeLine Platform: Learn More
5. CancerBuddy App: Download CancerBuddy

Your kindness and thoughtfulness can make a world of difference. Remember, even small gestures can have a big impact on someone navigating cancer.

Financial Resources for Cancer Patients

A cancer diagnosis can bring not only emotional and physical challenges but significant financial strain as well. From medical bills and treatment costs to lost wages and increased living expenses, the financial burden can feel overwhelming.

Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help. On this page, you’ll find financial assistance programs, grants, and emergency funds designed to ease the financial impact of cancer treatment. We frequently update this page, so be sure to revisit as needed!

Breast Cancer Funds:
thejillfoundation.org/
www.elliefund.org/
www.panfoundation.org/disease-funds/bladder-cancer/

General Cancer Funds:
www.jointheflockinc.org/

Leukemia & Lymphoma Fund:
www.lls.org/support-resources/financial-support/patient-aid-program

Lodging support:
Lodging Aid

Transportation Assistance:
www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery.html

Cancer Education for Salon Professionals

Types of Cancers Common in Salon Professionals:

1. Bladder Cancer
2. Breast Cancer
3. Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Whether you’re personally facing a cancer diagnosis, supporting a colleague, or helping a loved one, we hope this educational hub is helpful as you learn more about early detection, diagnosis, and treatments of the cancers affecting salon professionals.

American Cancer Society:
www.cancer.org/

Bladder Cancer:
www.cancer.org/cancer/types/bladder-cancer.html

Breast Cancer:
www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer.html

Breast Cancer in Men:
www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer-in-men.html

Leukemia:
www.lls.org/
www.cancer.org/cancer/types/leukemia.html

NHL Cancer:
www.cancer.org/cancer/types/non-hodgkin-lymphoma.html
www.lls.org/

*Disclaimer: These are our findings and information to be helpful for our community. We 100% always recommend consulting with your physician for regular screenings and regarding any concerns or questions you may have.*