Using beauty products the wrong way may not make you prettier—it might actually invite disease. Especially these 3 habits that silently “invite” cancer.

Dr. Mikkael Sekeres, Head of Hematology at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Florida (UK), warns:

“We all know that smoking and heavy alcohol use increase cancer risk, but there are many other harmful habits. Some are everyday behaviors that go unnoticed, including common beauty practices.”

Below are 3 beauty habits that can rapidly increase your risk of cancer—no matter how much you love them, it’s wise to take control:

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1. Frequently Curling, Straightening, or Dyeing Hair

Hair dyes and chemical hair treatments are popular, especially for those who enjoy changing styles regularly. However, few people know these products may contain dangerous chemicals like formaldehyde and phthalates.

Formaldehyde is a well-documented human carcinogen. Phthalates—chemicals used to make plastic more flexible and durable—are known endocrine disruptors and have also been linked to cancer risk.

A 2022 study from the UK’s National Cancer Institute found that regular use of chemical hair treatments significantly increased the risk of uterine cancer.
According to Dr. Sekeres, although data on individual products is still limited, consumers should check the ingredient labels carefully. Avoid products containing formaldehyde or hormone-disrupting chemicals.
He recommends limiting chemical hair treatments to 2–3 times a year, even if you enjoy them.

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2. Getting Multiple Tattoos

Tattoos are a growing beauty trend, but they may pose hidden health risks. A Swedish study revealed that people with tattoos have a 21% higher risk of cancer compared to those without.

Tattoo ink often contains heavy metals like cadmium, which can damage kidneys, bones, lungs, and increase the risk of certain cancers.

Another study in Denmark found that tattooed individuals have a 62% higher risk of skin cancer. These ink chemicals may accumulate in lymph nodes and affect the immune system. Researchers believe they can cause chronic inflammation, abnormal cell growth, and cancer.

Tattoos aren’t necessarily off-limits—but it’s important to limit frequency and choose reputable ink sources.

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3. Overusing Foods or Skincare Products Containing Hormones

A recent trend in skincare involves using products or supplements containing hormones—especially estrogen—to improve skin or slow aging.

While they may promise youthful skin, these products also come with serious side effects. Hormonal ingredients can disrupt the body’s natural hormone levels (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone), which may lead to breast, thyroid, or ovarian cancer.

A 2017 study from Harvard University found that prolonged exposure to estrogen or estrogen-like compounds significantly increases breast cancer risk, particularly in women with a family history of the disease.

A 2018 report from the U.S. National Cancer Institute also warned that products containing progesterone or estrogen can cause hormonal imbalances, raising the risk of gynecological cancers, especially ovarian cancer.

Dr. Sekeres strongly advises caution:

• Read ingredient labels carefully.

• Avoid long-term use without medical guidance.

• Seek expert advice if you have hormonal issues or a family history of cancer.