Former Hairdresser Shares Cancer Experience Caused by Styling Chemicals
Sue Leeming, a 59-year-old former hairdresser, has bravely shared her battle with stage three breast cancer, attributing it to years of exposure to styling chemicals like perming solutions, dyes, hairspray, and bleach. Sue, who worked in salons for 17 years, was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2008, prompting her to raise awareness about the risks hairstylists face from constant exposure to these harmful chemicals.
During her career, Sue routinely used strong perming chemicals and bleach on clients, reflecting on the potential long-term effects of the products she was using. The diagnosis revealed a pea-sized tumour with a significant chemical build-up, directly linked to the styling chemicals she handled daily. Sue’s oncologist warned her that continuing in the profession could be life-threatening if she didn’t make a change immediately.
Despite the grim prognosis, Sue’s cancer was caught just in time, preventing it from spreading to her lymph nodes. Following a mastectomy and rigorous treatment regimen, including chemotherapy and years on oestrogen suppressants, she was declared cancer-free in 2009. Reflecting on her journey, Sue advocates for hairdressers to switch to eco-friendly solutions and to be vigilant about potential signs of cancer, especially breast cancer, which is prevalent among women in the profession.
Throughout her recovery, Sue recognised the need for a salon environment that prioritised health and well-being. In 2009, she opened a natural salon in Norwich, catering to clients undergoing cancer treatment by using non-toxic products. The salon not only provided a safe space for those with compromised immune systems but also allowed Sue to continue her passion for hairdressing in a healthier, more sustainable way.
Despite eventually retiring from the industry in 2018, Sue continues to raise awareness about the dangers hairstylists face from prolonged exposure to styling chemicals. Her advocacy extends to encouraging regular screenings and immediate medical attention for any concerning symptoms. Recognising the higher incidence of cancer among hairdressers, a study conducted by the National Centre for Biotechnology Information in the US highlighted the increased cancer risk associated with exposure to various chemicals present in hairdressing products.
Sue’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of occupational health and safety in industries where chemical exposure is prevalent. Her journey from a cancer diagnosis to remission and advocacy for safer practices in hairdressing underscores the need for greater awareness and protective measures to safeguard the health of hairstylists globally. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, Sue’s experience stands as a testament to the resilience and courage needed to confront and overcome occupational hazards in pursuit of a healthier future for all professionals in the field.