Salon treatments often promise to transform our hair, skin, and nails, making us feel pampered and glamorous. However, not all salon services are as beneficial as they seem. Some treatments can cause lasting damage, leaving you worse off than before. Whether it’s the use of harsh chemicals or excessive heat, these common beauty procedures might be doing more harm than good. Here are 12 salon treatments that can compromise your beauty and health.
1. Chemical Hair Relaxers
Chemical relaxers are widely used to straighten curly or wavy hair, but the strong chemicals involved can cause severe damage. Relaxers often contain sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide, which strips the hair of its natural moisture, leaving it brittle and prone to breakage. Over time, repeated applications can lead to thinning hair and even permanent scalp damage. Research from Boston University shows that the chemicals can also irritate sensitive skin, causing burns or rashes. If you want straighter hair, consider less harmful alternatives like keratin treatments or natural straightening methods. Research indicates that moderate and heavy use of chemical hair relaxers may be associated with a higher risk of uterine cancer among postmenopausal Black women.
2. Gel Manicures
American Academy of Dermatology reveals that while gel manicures offer long-lasting, chip-free nails, they come with significant risks. The UV light used to cure the gel polish can damage your skin, increasing the risk of premature aging and even skin cancer. Additionally, frequent gel manicures can weaken your natural nails, causing them to become thin, brittle, and prone to peeling. Removing gel polish often involves soaking nails in acetone, which dehydrates the nail bed and surrounding skin. Opt for regular manicures and take breaks between gel applications to allow your nails to recover.
3. Brazilian Blowouts
According to Healthline, this popular hair-smoothing treatment uses a combination of heat and chemicals to reduce frizz and create sleek, shiny locks. However, the formaldehyde and other chemicals in Brazilian blowouts pose serious health risks. Prolonged exposure to these fumes can irritate your eyes, skin, and respiratory system, and some studies link formaldehyde to cancer. The intense heat required during the process can also weaken hair strands, leading to breakage over time. Consider sulfate-free smoothing products or gentler alternatives to manage frizz without the health risks.
4. Eyelash Extensions
Eyelash extensions offer dramatic length and volume, but frequent use can take a toll on your natural lashes. American Academy of Ophthalmology confirms that the adhesive used to attach the extensions often contains harsh chemicals that can irritate your eyes and skin. Over time, the weight of the extensions can weaken your natural lashes, causing them to thin or fall out entirely. Poor application techniques or improper aftercare can also lead to eye infections or allergic reactions. If you love the look, opt for occasional use and ensure your technician uses high-quality, non-toxic glue.
5. Keratin Treatments
Keratin treatments claim to repair damaged hair and provide a sleek, frizz-free finish, but they’re not as safe as they sound. Many keratin treatments contain formaldehyde or similar chemicals, which are released as fumes during the process. These fumes can irritate your eyes, throat, and lungs and pose long-term health risks. Additionally, the high heat used to seal the treatment can cause significant damage to hair strands, making them more prone to breakage. Look for formaldehyde-free options or focus on deep-conditioning treatments to restore hair health naturally.
6. Microdermabrasion
This exfoliating treatment is designed to improve skin texture and tone, but when done too frequently or improperly, it can harm your skin. Over-exfoliating removes the skin’s natural protective barrier, leaving it vulnerable to irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Microdermabrasion can also worsen conditions like rosacea or acne if the skin is already inflamed. In severe cases, improper technique can result in microtears or scarring. Stick to gentler exfoliation methods or consult a dermatologist for safe, targeted skin treatments.
7. Permanent Hair Dyes
Changing your hair color can be fun, but permanent hair dyes often contain ammonia, peroxide, and other harsh chemicals that can weaken hair strands over time. These chemicals strip your hair of its natural oils and pigments, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Prolonged exposure to hair dyes can also irritate your scalp and increase your risk of allergic reactions. In some cases, frequent dyeing can lead to thinning hair or hair loss. Opt for semi-permanent or natural hair dyes to minimize damage, and always follow a nourishing hair care routine.
8. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels promise rejuvenated skin by removing the outer layers, but they can also cause damage if not done correctly. Overusing chemical peels or choosing a peel that’s too strong for your skin type can lead to redness, sensitivity, and even scarring. People with darker skin tones may experience hyperpigmentation, as the treatment can disrupt melanin production. DIY chemical peels or treatments from unlicensed providers increase the risk of burns or permanent skin damage. Always consult a licensed dermatologist for chemical peels and ensure the treatment suits your skin’s needs.
9. Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are a popular way to achieve long, polished nails, but they can weaken your natural nails over time. The process involves filing down your natural nails, making them thinner and more prone to breaking. The chemicals used in acrylic application can irritate the skin and damage the nail bed, while improper removal can peel away layers of the natural nail. Acrylic nails can also trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for infections. Limit their use and allow your natural nails to recover between applications.
10. Scalp Bleaching
Bleaching your scalp to achieve platinum or pastel hair colors involves strong chemicals that strip the natural pigment from your hair. This process can severely damage your hair’s structure, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. The bleach can also irritate your scalp, causing redness, itching, or burns. Over time, frequent bleaching can thin your hair and cause permanent hair loss. Opt for highlights or less intense coloring methods to protect your hair and scalp health.
11. Lip Fillers Gone Wrong
While lip fillers can enhance your appearance, improper application or low-quality products can cause lasting damage. Poor technique can lead to lumps, unevenness, or migration of the filler, which can be difficult to correct. Overfilling can stretch the skin, leading to sagging or wrinkling once the filler dissolves. Allergic reactions to the filler material can also cause swelling, pain, or infections. Always choose a licensed, experienced professional for filler treatments to minimize risks.
12. Hair Extensions
Hair extensions add length and volume, but improperly installed or heavy extensions can damage your natural hair. The weight of the extensions can pull on your roots, leading to traction alopecia, a condition that causes permanent hair loss. Extensions that are too tight or poorly maintained can also cause breakage and scalp irritation. Frequent use without breaks doesn’t allow your natural hair to recover. Opt for lightweight, clip-in extensions and give your hair regular rest periods to minimize damage.
Salon treatments can enhance your beauty routine, but some come with hidden risks that outweigh the benefits. Whether it’s chemical-laden products, harsh techniques, or improper application, these treatments can harm your hair, skin, and nails in the long run. By staying informed and making mindful choices, you can enjoy salon services while protecting your natural beauty. Always prioritize your health and consult licensed professionals for safer alternatives.
