Here are the main occupational health risks associated with working as a Hairdresser / Beauty Professional, with prevention advice.
Hair dyes, bleaches, perming solutions and nail products release ammonia, formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals causing occupational asthma and respiratory sensitisation.
Constant wet work and contact with shampoos, dyes and chemicals causes hand dermatitis in the majority of hairdressers — often forcing career changes if unmanaged.
Prolonged standing, awkward arm positions and repetitive movements cause neck, shoulder, back and wrist problems in salon workers throughout their careers.
Long standing hours, client demands, commission targets and irregular hours contribute to significant stress in hair and beauty professionals.
Repeated exposure to hair dye chemicals — particularly PPD — causes permanent skin and respiratory sensitisation, making further chemical exposure impossible.