A trip to the salon is meant to be relaxing, but experts say in very rare cases, it could trigger a condition called beauty parlor stroke syndrome (BPSS). A new review in The American Journal of Emergency Medicine found 54 documented cases over the past five decades, most occurring during hair washing when clients leaned back in shampoo chairs.
The condition happens when arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain become compressed or damaged from extreme neck angles. This can reduce blood flow and, in rare cases, lead to stroke-like symptoms such as dizziness, vision changes, or weakness. Researchers emphasize BPSS is extremely uncommon and usually affects people with preexisting neck or artery issues.
To lower risk, experts suggest using a towel or cushion for neck support, keeping the head more upright, and speaking up right away if discomfort or dizziness occurs. The odds of BPSS are very low, but proper positioning and awareness can help keep salon visits safe and stress-free.
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