Abstract

CHEMICALS USED IN HAIR SHAMPOO AND HAIR CARE PRODUCTS CAUSING HAIR FALL AND RISK OF CANCER - AN AYURVEDIC AND TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW

*Vd Krishnakant R. Rathi, Vd J. J. Phadke, Vd Anuja Wadadekar

Abstract

Background: Hair cosmetics and hair care products are extensively used worldwide for cleansing, beautification, and hair maintenance. Modern shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes, straightening agents, and styling formulations contain multiple synthetic chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, triclosan, coal tar dyes, and aromatic amines. Chronic exposure to these compounds has been associated with scalp irritation, hair fall, endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity.[11] Ayurveda emphasizes preservation of Kesha (hair) through maintenance of Dhatu Samyata, Rakta Shuddhi, and avoidance of Visha Dravya. The principles of Agadtantra provide insight into chronic low-dose toxicity resembling exposure to cosmetic chemicals. Aim: To critically analyze the toxicological effects of chemicals used in shampoos and hair care products causing hair fall and cancer risk through Ayurvedic and contemporary scientific perspectives. Materials and Methods: This review-based analytical study was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya along with modern scientific literature collected from PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, WHO reports, IARC monographs, and toxicological journals. Keywords used included “hair cosmetics toxicity,” “parabens and cancer,” “hair dye carcinogenicity,” “Ayurveda and hair fall,” and “cosmetic toxicology.” Results and Discussion: The review revealed that many synthetic cosmetic ingredients induce oxidative stress, endocrine dysfunction, follicular inflammation, DNA damage, and carcinogenic changes. Ayurvedically, these pathological processes can be correlated with Dushivisha, Garavisha, Pitta Prakopa, Rakta Dushti, Khalitya, and Dhatu Kshaya. Long-term exposure to such chemicals may act as cumulative toxins leading to chronic disease manifestation. Conclusion: Frequent use of chemical-containing shampoos and hair products may contribute significantly to hair fall and long-term carcinogenic risk. Ayurvedic toxicology offers a comprehensive conceptual framework for understanding chronic cosmetic toxicity. Promotion of safer herbal alternatives, public awareness, and integrative research is essential for preventive healthcare.

Keywords: Ayurveda; Agadtantra; Hair Fall; Cosmetic Toxicity; Dushivisha; Carcinogenic Chemicals; Hair Care Products.