What is Beauty Parlor Stroke Syndrome?
Beauty Parlor Stroke Syndrome (BPSS) is a rare but potentially serious condition that can arise during routine salon hair washes. The syndrome occurs when the neck is hyperextended over a shampoo bowl. This position can compress or tear the vertebral arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain. In some cases, this vascular compromise can contribute to a stroke or transient ischemic attack, especially if symptoms are ignored or misread.
The New Findings on BPSS
A May 2025 study published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine synthesized 22 studies, analyzing 54 BPSS cases across five decades. Researchers noted that while BPSS is uncommon, the trigger—neck hyperextension during a salon wash—is a familiar, everyday activity for many clients. The study highlighted that the majority of affected individuals were women (about 80%), with a wide age range from teenagers to seniors. The authors emphasized that BPSS is a recognizable neurological emergency, where prompt recognition and physical examination are critical to prevent delayed stroke symptoms.
Understanding the Symptoms
Symptoms associated with BPSS can mimic other neurological issues and may not appear immediately. Reported signs include vertigo, dizziness, blurred vision, loss of balance, headaches, nausea, slurred speech, and weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. Because onset can be days or weeks after the initial neck extension, readers should be aware that delayed presentation is possible. If you notice sudden dizziness, trouble with balance, or facial weakness after a salon wash, seek urgent medical evaluation.
What Do Experts Recommend?
Experts suggest practical steps to reduce BPSS risk during salon visits. A key recommendation is to ask for neck support during washes. Salon staff can provide rolled towels, cushions, or a more upright seating position to minimize neck hyperextension. Clients should communicate any discomfort during a shampoo to ensure adjustments are made promptly. For those with a history of vascular issues or neck problems, discussing risk factors with a healthcare provider before regular salon visits may be prudent.
The Real-Life Impact
Personal anecdotes illustrate how BPSS can have lasting consequences. In a documented case from 2014, a woman experienced a stroke two weeks after a salon neck extension during a wash. She reported an unsteady gait, loss of motor skills in her left hand, and impaired vision, underscoring that the consequences can extend beyond the moment of the wash. While such outcomes are rare, they highlight the importance of preventive measures and vigilance for symptoms.
<h2 Practical Tips for Readers
- Ask your stylist to use neck supports or adjust your seating to reduce neck tilt.
- Limit the duration of the neck-hyperextended position; request breaks if needed.
- Pay attention to any new dizziness, vision changes, or numbness after a wash and seek medical care if symptoms persist.
- If you have known neck or vascular issues, discuss salon routines with your clinician and consider alternative shampooing methods.
While BPSS is rare, being proactive can help many people enjoy their salon experiences safely. The takeaway is simple: comfortable, upright positioning and clear communication with your stylist can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk.
Image credits: Getty Images
