Behind the beauty: chemical hazards facing salon workers

Behind the glamour of the beauty industry lies a harsh reality: the health of beauty industry workers is often at risk due to repeated exposure to toxic chemicals in salons and cosmetic products. While many of these substances are deemed safe in small doses for individual consumers, beauty workers are exposed to them daily.

Whether working in a hair salon, nail salon, or day spa, these professionals dedicate themselves to helping others feel confident and radiant. But in doing so, they are frequently exposed to toxic chemicals that can silently harm their bodies over time.

Adding to the concern is the fact that most people wouldn’t consider these occupations high-risk. They handle dangerous chemicals every day and inadvertently put themselves at risk, which could mean they’re not treated with the same caution and care as more ‘obvious’ dangerous chemicals.

Everyday exposure, lifelong consequences

Beauty workers handle products that contain dangerous substances, many of which are known to cause cancer, respiratory illness, and severe skin conditions.

Common toxic chemicals in beauty products

Hair, nail, and beauty salons

You likely encounter these chemicals frequently if you’re a hairdresser, nail technician, or work in a beauty salon.

• Acetaldehyde: found in some hair dyes, perfumes, and nail polish removers; linked to multiple types of cancer.
• Formaldehyde: common in hair straightening treatments (like Brazilian blowouts), nail hardeners, and some eyelash glues; known to trigger asthma, dermatitis, and nasal cancers.
• Ammonia: frequently used in hair colouring products and bleaching agents; can cause respiratory irritation and pneumonia.
• Benzene: can be present in aerosol sprays such as dry shampoos and some nail polish removers; associated with leukemia and lymphoma.

Makeup artists

If you’re a makeup artist, you might unknowingly expose yourself to the following chemicals through regular product use.

• Coal Tar: found in some eyeliners, mascaras, and dark hair dyes; linked to lung and skin cancers.
• Ethylene Oxide: may be used in sterilising cosmetic tools and found as a contaminant in some cream-based products; causes irritation and increases leukemia risk.
• Latex: common in makeup sponges, adhesive strips for false eyelashes, and some cosmetic applicators; can trigger allergic reactions and asthma.

These substances silent chemical threats that beauty professionals face daily.

No matter your occupation, it's crucial to follow safety instructions and wear the appropriate protective equipment when working with chemicals. Whenever possible, minimise both exposure to and use of harsh or dangerous chemicals. Always read the labels and ingredients to understand the risks associated with these products.

What to do if you’ve been exposed to toxic chemicals

If you’ve worked in the beauty industry, been exposed to toxic chemicals, and are concerned that you may be at risk, it’s essential to get a medical examination. Book an appointment to see your GP and inform them of your occupation and exposure levels.

Legal rights for beauty workers with occupational illnesses

Those affected by occupational diseases deserve compensation for their losses. This can include compensation for lost wages, medical and other expenses, and pain and suffering.

It is essential to get legal advice to help you understand your rights and options if you have been diagnosed with a disease that your work contributed to and/or increased the risk of you developing.

If you've been exposed to toxic chemicals at your workplace or as part of your work, you may be eligible to make a workplace injury claim. Our dedicated workers' compensation lawyers are here to help you get back on track so you can focus on getting better.

Use our free claim check tool to find out if you're eligible for a workers' compensation claim, send us a message or call us on 1800 111 222.