Hair dyes - safe or not?

Prior to being diagnosed with breast cancer, I used to dye my hair around twice a year.
I’ve since heard that there is a link between hair dye and breast cancer, please could you tell me if is this true or not?

If it is correct, please could you recommend chemical free hair dyes which would be safe to use.

Thank you.

1 Like

Hello @sunshine7

I used to dye my hair all the time never new it linked with cancer. Since diagnosis I swapped out all my cosmetics and toiletries to those that dont have petrochemicals in them. List on goop and info on cancer websites.
I now use wash out hair dye from revolution london. Its a few quid and with my super short hair a bottle last for months
Colours are fabulous. My fave is lilac. Have some fun with it xx

1 Like

Hi sunshine7

Thanks for posting and asking if there is a link between hair dye and breast cancer. Some studies have looked at whether certain endocrine disrupting chemicals used in some hair dyes may increase the risk of breast cancer in some African American women however there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that there is a strong link between hair dyes and cancer risk. It can be very difficult to work out the effects of individual chemicals when we are exposed to low levels of thousands of chemicals during our lifetime. Further studies are recommended.

If you would prefer to use hair dyes with more natural ingredients it may help to visit a health and wellbeing store. Cancer Hair Care is a charity that also offers advice on dying hair following cancer treatment and recommends certain brands of dyes which use natural or organic ingredients which you may find helpful.

Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).

If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. To do this complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.

Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday.

Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.

Best wishes

Katy

Breast Care Nurse

Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy

As we are unable to monitor for further replies, this thread will now be closed. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread, call our helpline, email us or request a call back.