Beauty under the scrutiny: comparative assessment of volatile and inorganic air pollutants in beauty salons versus outdoor air

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess indoor air quality in twelve beauty salons located in the Upper Silesian agglomeration (Poland) and to evaluate the influence of service type and surrounding environment on gaseous pollutant levels. A four-week monitoring campaign was conducted using passive samplers to determine concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde (HCHO), ammonia (NH₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) in the workers’ breathing zones, with reference to outdoor background levels.

The results demonstrated a clear predominance of indoor emission sources. The mean indoor total VOC concentration (1485.5 µg/m³) was approximately ten times higher than outdoor concentration, confirming the significant contribution of cosmetic products and treatment procedures. The greatest spatial variability was observed in ammonia concentrations (26.6–1086 µg/m³), strongly associated with the use of hair treatment products. Nitrogen dioxide showed moderate indoor enrichment, whereas sulfur dioxide remained at urban background levels. Notably, indoor ozone concentrations were over an order of magnitude lower than outdoor levels, indicating effective ozone removal through reactions with VOCs and the potential formation of secondary pollutants. Although most concentrations did not exceed occupational exposure limits, long-term exposure to complex mixtures of primary and secondary pollutants may pose health risks, highlighting the need for systematic monitoring and improved ventilation strategies in beauty salons.