Why this was an important mission
for Desiree and the team at Bactronix-
“When you think of being a hairdresser, what words come to mind? Perhaps it’s creativity, glamour, or fashion. For me, it’s the word extraordinary! As a Cosmetologist, I love the fact that we have the power to change lives. So many people from different walks of life sit in your chair. We have the ability to make them feel good about who they are.
A word that might not come to mind when being a hairdresser is cancer. Hairdressers are among the top 10 professions in the world to have the highest risk for cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Ranked with rubber manufacturing, mining, and plastic workers, it makes you wonder what are we exposed to.
We all know chemicals are a big part of our business. Hair color, perms and relaxers usually come to mind first when considering chemicals. However, have you ever thought of the most common chemical we touch and use every day? Found on every station is a highly toxic disinfectant. The next time you are in the salon read the label which says “Hazardous to Humans and Domestic Animals”. You also might find it interesting to read the rest of the label stating that it is corrosive and causes irreversible eye damage and skin burns. It may also say do not get into eyes, on skin or clothing. Harmful, wear protective eye wear, clothing and rubber gloves when handling. Wash hands and tools thoroughly with soap and water after handling. The EPA requires these warnings to be on the label due to the high toxicity of the disinfectant and the risks you take by being exposed to this chemical.
Some common chemical ingredients are Isopropyl Alcohol, Sodium Nitrite,
and Phenols. All of which are categorized as carcinogenic. As
Hairdressers, consider the long period of time we’ve been exposed to
these ingredients. Harmful bi-products and VOCs within these chemicals
are released into the environment which we breathe in as well! Did you
know that if you breathe in poisonous disinfectants you should
immediately inhale fresh air for 20 minutes? If condition worsens
contact a physician. Let’s face it, the risk of using these highly
toxic chemicals needs to stop!
