Styling Your Hair This Way Could Be Dangerous: "Over 10 Billion Nanoparticles Generated in Just 10-20 Minutes"

Over 10 Billion Nanoparticles Released in Just 10?20 Minutes of Styling
Especially Hazardous in Bathrooms and Enclosed Spaces; Ventilation Is Essential

A study has found that using heat styling tools such as hair straighteners or curling irons after applying hair products can expose individuals to levels of nanoparticles that threaten lung health.

A study has found that using heat styling tools after applying hair products can threaten lung health. Unrelated photo. Pexels

According to reports from foreign media outlets such as the Daily Mail and The Sun on August 26 (local time), a research team from Purdue University in Indiana, United States, recently published a paper in the international journal 'Environmental Science & Technology' revealing that when hair care products such as creams, serums, or sprays are used together with heat styling devices, more than 10 billion nanoparticles can be generated within just 10 to 20 minutes. The researchers explained that this concentration is "similar to what one would encounter standing in the middle of a congested highway."

The study was conducted in an experimental space designed to replicate a real residential environment. When participants used various hair products and then performed heat styling, volatile chemicals evaporated at temperatures above 150 degrees Celsius, transforming into ultrafine nanoparticles that were released into the indoor air. These particles are extremely small, with diameters of less than 100 nanometers, enabling them to penetrate deep into the lungs through the respiratory tract.

The researchers warned, "The risk of exposure is particularly high when heat styling tools are used close to the face in poorly ventilated spaces, such as bathrooms." They added, "Such nanoparticles can cause serious health effects, including lung inflammation, respiratory problems, and even cognitive decline."

The primary component identified was 'D5 siloxane.' This substance has already been reported to have environmental persistence and human toxicity, to the extent that some of its uses are restricted within the European Union.

The research team advised that exposure can be reduced by: ▲ not using heat styling tools and hair products simultaneously whenever possible; ▲ minimizing the amount of product used if simultaneous use is unavoidable; ▲ improving ventilation by using fans or opening windows; and ▲ using low-temperature modes below 150 degrees Celsius.