BH11 What is in the bottle? Surveying endocrine-disrupting chemicals in hair products in an NHS hair clinic

Abstract

Emerging evidence suggests that personal care products including hair products may contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals associated with hormonally mediated health outcomes. Phthalates have been linked with possible impacts on the hair follicle – a vulnerable site due to high perfusion. The concern is that these chemicals may be more prevalent in products commonly used by Black women in particular. We aimed to determine the prevalence of hair product use within an NHS hair clinic. We conducted a cross-sectional study among patients who completed an anonymous survey, based on a previously validated questionnaire, and who attended between June and December 2025. Forty patients have been surveyed to date, with ongoing data collection taking place (n = 37 female). Twelve patients surveyed (30%) were Black women, with lichen planopilaris being the most prevalent condition (n = 16). Hair oil use was noted in 48% of cases, with a higher frequency of use observed among individuals of Black or Asian descent. Notably, 86% (n = 6) of patients with central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia had used hair oils for ≥ 1 year. One-half (50%) of patients reported using hair creams for ≥ 1 year and 48% reported using leave-in conditioners. Thirteen patients had a history of chemical hair perming, with many reporting long-term use spanning > 10 years. Additional products used included natural oils and antifrizz formulations. Our results highlight the variety and frequency of hair product usage in patients with hair disorders, not often recorded in routine clinical reviews. The presence of potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals in hair products warrants the need for increased awareness among healthcare professionals and further long-term studies on their impact on hair disorders.