Association between hair dye use and human cancers: A systematic review

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2026

Publication Title

JAAD Int

Keywords

bladder cancer; breast cancer; cancer; hair dyes; leukemia; neoplasm; non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; paraphenylenediamine (PPD)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The global hair color market is valued over 23 billion dollars with over 2 billion in sales in the United States. Permanent hair dye accounts for approximately 80% of hair dye products on the market.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the association between hair dye use and cancer risk and identify vulnerable populations.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed and MEDLINE from January 1964 to March 2025 was conducted. Articles were reviewed independently by 3 assessors.

RESULTS: The review included 96 articles including 2 on both adults and children, and 5 on maternal exposure and pediatric cancer risk. Some studies suggested potential associations between hair dye use and cancer risk. Trends include increased risk of estrogen receptor + breast cancer among African American women and elevated bladder cancer in both genders. risk in frequent users. Individuals with slow acetylator N-acetyltransferase 2 genotypes or CYP1A2 had elevated cancer risk with dye use. Maternal use during the first trimester significantly increased offspring risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia further elevated by continued use during lactation.

LIMITATIONS: Limitations include elements of study design, study populations, and confounders.

CONCLUSION: There is evidence to suggest possible increased cancer risks for frequent, long-term hair dye use in specific populations.

PubMed ID

41399670

Volume

24

First Page

205

Last Page

233

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