Science Update: Is Your Hair Malnourished?

Is washing your hair everyday exposing you to chemicals that might be killing brain cells. A study released yesterday by researchers at Pitsburgh University states that you just might be.

Everyday exposure to a chemical found in many shampoos and hand lotions and widely used in industry could be harmful to humans.
A study published yesterday said methylisothiazolinone (MIT) inhibited the development of certain neuron structures that are essential for transmitting signals between cells in the body.
The researchers, from Pittsburgh University, said MIT restricted the growth of these structures in immature rat nerve cells and may have potentially damaging consequences to a developing nervous system.

Risk to Fetus
Dr. Elias Aizenman, one of the researchers, said: "While more research is needed to determine what effect MIT would have in rodent models, both at the cellular level and to a developing nervous system, our results thus far suggest there is a potential that everyday exposure to the chemical could also be harmful to humans. I would be particularly concerned about occupational exposure in pregnant women and the possibility of risk to the fetus."

This is disturbing news, not that we might be exposing our brain to toxic chemical, but the notion that people will take this seriously and stop washing their hair. It could cause a panic when coupled with the knowledge that their water supply may be contaminated with dihydrogen monoxide. This combination could be deadly.

Fortunately a spokesperson for Big Shampoo allays our fears.

However, the Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Perfumery Association described the findings as interesting, but said there was "no cause for concern."

This news, along with a commercial I saw last night for a shampoo that claimed it would nourish my hair has me really thinking about the health and well being of my hair. Could I possibly be starving my hair? My shampoo does not contain any of the following string of mostly made up words, Jojoba Oil, Hazelnut, Kukui Nut, Squalene, Helio Carrot, Evening Primrose, Borage, Vitamin E & essential oils of Myrtle, Eucalyptus Staigeriana, Cedarwood, Ylang Ylang & Litsea Cubea.

Crap, I don't think my hair has had a damn thing to eat since I was a teenager and used my sister's wheat germ oil and honey shampoo.

Post linked to Beltway Traffic Jam @ Outside The Beltway