Toxic beauty: exposure to chemical hazards and respiratory health among informal workers in beauty centers in Bogotá

Resumen

Introduction: In beauty centers, various chemical products are used for treatments, but the potential risks to the respiratory health of informal workers in these settings may not be properly identified.

Objectives: To identify chemical risk factors influencing the onset of respiratory symptoms among workers in beauty centers.

Methods: A non-probabilistic convenience sample of hairdressers in Bogotá was used, employing a qualiquantitative approach through participant observation, interviews, perceived morbidity questionnaires, and an expert panel.

Results: In these informal jobs, it was found that most workers are women, around 35 years old, with basic education and in common-law relationships. Job characteristics and levels of exposure to hazardous chemicals were assessed, and their association with reported respiratory symptoms was analyzed. It was found that adherence to the use of personal protective equipment is low, with a primary risk factor being the lack of risk awareness among workers. Between 6 and 10% of respondents reported experiencing symptoms that could contribute to respiratory issues.

Conclusions: Although the products used for beauty procedures are over the counter, they may contain components such as formaldehyde that can affect the respiratory system. According to current regulations, these products are exempt from the Globally Harmonized System application. With the support of multidisciplinary experts in occupational safety and health, recommendations are made to improve the occupational well-being of exposed individuals.