Washington: A new study has found that hair products can be harmful to human health and the environment.

Hair products commonly contain cyclic volatile methyl siloxanes (CVMS), a chemical known to add shine and detangle (i.e. manage frizz and prevent tangling). .

A study published in the American Chemical Society reports that when molecules are heated by hair straighteners or curling wands, they can potentially cause long-term negative effects for human health and the environment.

Participants in the study used their usual hair products (creams, sprays and oils) and straighteners in a specific environment.

During this time the researchers measured the CVMS and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted. VOCs are chemicals that can be harmful and some are known to cause cancer.

In the study, the authors stated that VOCs due to indoor hair care routines can have long-term effects on the respiratory and atmospheric environment.

The researchers noted that these emissions can affect the chemistry of the atmosphere.

The most prominent emissions observed in CVMS compounds during the study were decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4).

In addition to lethal effects on the liver and lungs, D4 and D5 have been associated with adverse effects on the respiratory tract, liver, and nervous system of laboratory animals in rodent studies.

The research looked at product type, hair length and styling tool temperature to affect the release of the compound. That is, longer hair and higher temperatures meant higher emissions of VOCs.

An exhaust fan can clean the air in a room within 20 minutes, but doing so can affect air quality in densely populated cities, the researchers said.