2 Commonly Used Hair Products Linked With Cancer

While tainted products are a significant problem, some products are risky all on their own

High levels of benzene, a chemical that can cause blood cancers such as leukemia, were found in dry shampoos. New Africa/Shutterstock

Two commonly used categories of hair products have come under scrutiny after research linked one to cancer and lab testing found the other contaminated with a cancer-causing ingredient.

These add to a growing list of common cosmetic products that have been linked to cancer, following other well-publicized cases such as that of talcum powder. The use of baby or talcum powder by women in the perineal area is now linked to ovarian cancer. A few years ago, a St. Louis jury found that asbestos-tainted talcum powder contributed to the development of ovarian cancer.