Women who dye their hair more than six times a year increase the risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, a UK study has warned.

But Australian experts say that due to the lack of robust evidence, women shouldn’t be rushing to change the frequency of their hair appointments.

The study, conducted by Princess Grace Hospital breast cancer surgeon Professor Kefah Mokbel, found that those who dyed their hair increased their risk of breast cancer by 14 per cent.

Professor Mokbel suggested women should dye their hair less often and switch to products with natural ingredients, but the latest advice issued by the International Agency for Research on Cancer says there is no concrete evidence of a cancer link.

Cancer Council Australia’s Terry Slevin told The New Daily that women “should not be alarmed by this study”.

“This claim has been around for some time, dating back to the days when carbon-based, old-fashioned products were used to darken the hair,” he said.

Experts claim there is not yet robust evidence linking hair dye to cancer. Photo: Getty

“Since then, the industry has changed substantially and the products have changed fundamentally as well.

“If there is any risk, it would be hair professionals more at risk as they are at a greater risk of exposure, but there is no sufficient evidence.”

The UK study itself admitted that further research was required to confirm the results.

A second study, conducted in Finland, also found women who used hair dye were more likely to develop breast cancer, but fell short of proving whether dye “caused” the increase.

Edward Beale Carlton’s Josh Hale, who has been a hairdresser for the past decade, said the majority of clients seeking colour treatment would visit the salon every six to eight weeks to cover up grey roots.

“But some clients come in once every two months,” he said.

Hair and Beauty Industry Association chief Sandra Campitelli added that in the absence of hard evidence, the society recommends for all hairdressers to wear gloves and a mask while mixing hair dye to err on the side of caution and avoid breathing in the fumes.

“No one would have their hair coloured more than a hairdresser and they would also be more exposed to the fumes of the chemicals,” she told The New Daily.

“Hairdressers could be mixing half a dozen dyes a day and the scent can really take your breath away or make your eyes water.

“We would like to see some clear evidence so that we can better advise our members and, in turn, customers, about safe practice.”

She added that chemical data sheets are distributed to all salons with Therapeutic Goods Administration approved standards regarding safe hair dye ingredients.

These hair colourants are regulated by the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS).