A 20-year-old woman from Henan, China, developed kidney problems after changing her hair colour almost every month. She was inspired by her favourite popstar, whose ever-changing hairstyles she tried to imitate.
Hua began noticing red spots on her legs, joint pain, and stomach aches. Doctors at Zhengzhou People’s Hospital discovered her kidneys were inflamed. Dr. Tao Chenyang linked her kidney issues to her frequent hair dye use.
Many K-pop fans follow their idols’ hairstyles, often choosing rainbow or bright colours. Celebrities like Sehun from EXO and Hyoyeon from Girls’ Generation have made these bold hair trends popular.
Medical experts warn that frequent exposure to hair dye chemicals can be harmful. Permanent dyes, especially dark ones, contain substances such as aromatic amines and phenols, which may increase cancer risk. While studies show mixed results in humans, some suggest higher risk for bladder cancer among hairdressers.
Experts advise taking precautions when dyeing hair. Use gloves, follow instructions carefully, perform patch tests, and avoid damaged or irritated scalps. Beyond cancer, frequent hair dye use can cause kidney problems, allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and hair loss. Pregnant women should limit exposure, particularly during the first trimester.
