What is Beauty Parlor Stroke Syndrome?
Beauty Parlor Stroke Syndrome (BPSS) is a rare neurological event linked to the way some people position their head during a salon shampoo. The syndrome occurs when the neck is hyperextended over a shampoo bowl, which can compress or even tear the vertebral arteries that supply blood to the brain. In very uncommon cases, this vascular disruption can contribute to a stroke. While most individuals recover, BPSS can be a frightening experience and may present with delayed symptoms.
How common is BPSS and who is affected?
Recent findings from a synthesis of studies suggest that BPSS is rare, yet it appears to affect more women than men—estimates from across five decades indicate around 80% of reported cases involve women. The ages of those affected span from teenagers to seniors, highlighting that BPSS is not confined to any single age group. Patients have described a range of symptoms that can emerge days or even weeks after the neck position during a salon wash.
Symptoms to watch for
BPSS can mimic other neurological events, making early recognition crucial. Reported symptoms include dizziness or vertigo, blurred vision, loss of balance, headaches, nausea, slurred speech, and weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. Because these signs may appear well after the salon visit, medical attention should be sought promptly if any concerning symptoms arise.
What does the research say?
A recent review published in a major medical journal analyzed multiple studies and identified 54 BPSS cases across five decades. The researchers highlighted that the common trigger is neck hyperextension during a standard shampoo. Although the event is rare, the potential for serious outcomes—such as a heart stroke or lasting neurological impairment—means awareness is important for both clients and salon professionals.
Practical steps to reduce risk
Residents and health professionals alike emphasize prevention through simple measures in salons. Key recommendations include:
- Ask for and use neck support during washes, such as a rolled towel or a cushioned neck rest that keeps the head in a more upright position.
- Salon staff can adjust seating to maintain a comfortable, neutral neck posture and offer frequent breaks if a client feels pressure or discomfort.
- Clients should communicate any neck pain, dizziness, or balance issues immediately to the attendant.
- Anyone who develops stroke-like symptoms after a salon visit should seek urgent medical evaluation, even if symptoms seem to improve.
What this means for salon-goers
For fans of regular hair washes, BPSS underscores the value of minor accommodations that promote safety without sacrificing comfort. A brief, upright tilting position and a simple rolled towel as a neck cushion can make a meaningful difference. By advocating for neck support, clients empower themselves and encourage salons to adopt safer, more comfortable practices for everyone.
A note on awareness and support
While BPSS remains an uncommon cause of stroke, being informed helps people seek timely help and fosters safer salon experiences. If you or someone you know experiences unusual neurological symptoms after a hair wash, contact healthcare providers to rule out BPSS and other conditions. Ongoing research will further clarify risk factors and sharpen prevention strategies.
