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There has been a lot of media attention in recent years about a possible link between hair dye and cancer. Can your beauty secret give you cancer?

The International Agency on Research on Cancer, a unit of the World Health Organization, stated recently that there does indeed seem to be a link between hair dyes and bladder cancer. However, the risk seems to be minimal and the greatest risk seems to be among male barbers and hair care professionals who are exposed to large amounts of hair dyes on a daily basis. The greatest risk seems to be in using permanent dark-colored hair dyes.

While today's hair dyes are fairly safe to use, there is still some concern for those who used hair dyes before 1980. A study from Yale University found that women who started using dark hair dye before 1980 had an increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, women who started dying their hair after 1980 did not show such an increased risk.

Why the difference? In 1980 the U.S. banned the use of hair dye ingredients derived from coal tar. Those ingredients, including HC Blue 1, were found to be carcinogenic. (It should be noted that while the U.S. banned the use of these ingredients, they still may be permitted to use in other countries, particularly smaller, developing nations.)

Therefore, people aged 40 and older who have dyed their hair for many years and are concerned about cancer, should consult their general practitioner or oncologist. There is always a risk that toxins from a hair dye can be absorbed in the body. However, for the most part, the cancer risk is minimal.

Some people believe using hair dye carries some other health risks. For example, bleaching one's hair may burn the hair and scalp and in extreme cases may lead to skin infections.

In addition, research has found that women who color their hair for 20 years or more may nearly double their risk for rheumatoid arthritis. It is not clear if this is because they started with hair dyes made before 1980.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not dye their hair because their unborn children would be 10 times more likely to get cancer.

Many people report allergic reactions to hair dyes. Their scalps itch at the time of application and days later. The itchiness may result in sores. Some people may also have difficulty breathing because of an allergic reaction to the dye's ingredients.

Those who like to dye their hair unusual colors, such as pink or blue, should be aware that these dyes contain lead acetate and coal tar, both of which can harm the body's immune and reproductive systems.

In general, however, hair dyes are safe to use. Most products advise consumers to try a skin test several days before applying the dyes. If any adverse reaction is noticed, don't use the dye and perhaps consult a doctor, depending on the circumstances.

In order to prevent most risks, experts recommend avoiding dark and permanent hair dyes. Instead use natural hair dyes that use henna or herbal/vegetable dyes. Go to a salon that specializes in herbal, chemical free products. Don't mix hair dye products.

In reading this list of risks, keep in mind that in general hair dyes are very safe. By following package directions, it is possible to have beautiful hair and a healthy body.

For a more in depth look at hairdye-info.com/can-your-hair-dye-cause-cancer hair dye, visit our site at hairdye-info.com hairdye-info.com. On the blog you can find many articles and related resources about all things 'hair dye' related, including latest celebrity 'hair dye' news, latest industry news and more!