Under the patronage of the Dean of the College of Science for Women, Professor Dr. Sameera Naji Khdim , the Continuing Education Unit, in cooperation with the Department of Chemistry, organized a workshop entitled “The Impact of Hair Dyes on the Environment and Human Health.” The workshop was presented by Dr. Saadiya Ahmed Taher, Ms. Marwa Raad Hashim, and Ms. Ruqayya Hashim Abdul Ghani.
The workshop aimed to highlight the chemical risks inherent in hair cosmetics and coloring products, as well as the direct and cumulative damage they may cause to human health and the surrounding environment. The lectures provided a detailed explanation of the complex chemical components involved in the formulation of these dyes and how they interact with the scalp, potentially reaching the bloodstream. Such interactions may lead to severe allergic reactions, dermatological conditions, or chronic systemic diseases resulting from repeated and unregulated use.
Furthermore, the workshop emphasized the serious environmental dimension represented by the disposal of these chemical residues through sewage systems, which may disrupt aquatic ecosystems and contaminate soil. The presenters also reviewed safe and natural alternatives that can be adopted to reduce the harmful chemical footprint. In addition, preventive guidelines were provided regarding proper usage and the importance of reading product ingredients to ensure public safety.
The workshop concluded that chemical awareness constitutes a fundamental pillar for protecting society from the side effects of commercial products. It also stressed the necessity of promoting health and environmental culture within academic and community settings, and of linking academic knowledge with practical life applications.
