Archive · 5 Sep 2025
Hair Styling Routines Can Expose You To Traffic-Level Pollution
Imagine you're doing your hair with a straightener or curler.
A new study shows this can be like standing next to heavy traffic!
Researchers found that when you use heated tools and hair products, they release tiny particles into the air.
These particles are so small you can breathe them in, which might cause breathing problems or other health issues.
The heat from the styling tools causes chemicals in the products to evaporate and become these harmful particles.
The scientists suggest using less product, or opening a window while styling, to help make the air cleaner.
Study found that heat-based hair routines release billions of nanoparticles.
These particles are comparable to pollution levels on busy highways.
Heat from styling tools is the main driver of nanoparticle creation.
The chemicals released can cause health issues, including breathing difficulties.
Researchers recommend limiting product use and improving ventilation.
- Who
- Researchers led by Professor Nusrat Jung and Jianghui Liu
- What
- Found that heat-based hair styling routines can release a large number of nanoparticles.
- When
- Study was published in Environmental Science & Technology
- Where
- Purdue University, Indiana, United States
- Why
- To determine the level of pollution caused by hair care routines.
- Study Lead
- Professor Nusrat Jung and PhD student Jianghui Liu
- Published In
- Environmental Science & Technology
- Particles Released
- Over 10 billion nanoparticles
- Particle Size
- Most smaller than 100 nanometers
- Main Driver of Nanoparticles
- Heat
- Recommendations
- Limit hair product use and improve ventilation