For most, a salon shampoo session is a moment of relaxation. However, for a small number of individuals, the same position can set off a cascade of vascular injury known as beauty parlor stroke syndrome (BPSS), a rare condition first popularized in 1993 by New York neurologist Dr. Michael Weintraub. This syndrome occurs when neck positioning during hair-washing stretches or compresses the vertebral arteries, which run from the spine to the brain. In rare cases, this can cause arterial wall tears, leading to clot formation and potentially life-threatening disruptions in blood flow to the brain.
The syndrome is associated with a range of symptoms, from mild dizziness and vertigo to more severe neurological effects such as weakness and speech difficulties. A recent review published in The American Journal of Emergency Medicine identified 54 documented cases of BPSS over nearly five decades, with most cases occurring in beauty salons. The study highlights that approximately 80% of affected patients are women, ranging in age from teenagers to seniors. Structural issues like bone spurs in the cervical vertebrae can exacerbate the risk by increasing compression on the arteries.
Experts recommend preventive measures such as neck support during hair-washing and client communication to identify signs of neck strain or dizziness. The Pro Beauty Association in Arizona has advised stylists to use rolled towels or cushions to reduce client risk. While BPSS is rare and largely based on isolated case reports rather than population data, the potential severity of the condition underscores the importance of awareness and mitigation strategies to minimize risk in salon settings.