Use of Beauty Products among African American Women: Potential Health Disparities and Clinical Implications

Abstract

Skin and hair care products may be a potential source of toxic chemical exposure that disproportionately affects skin of color patients. African American women may have increased exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, as they are more likely to use personal care products such as chemical straighteners and relaxers. While studies on the association between beauty product use and certain diseases have shown variable findings, recent research has highlighted the potential increased risk of breast cancer among women who use certain hair products. The potential toxicity of beauty product-related chemicals has led women’s health providers to issue a call to action to identify and reduce patient exposure to these agents. We call for further research to better characterize the potential systemic effects of beauty products, especially those targeted toward skin of color individuals.