A link between hair dye and cancer has been studied for years, but now a group of scientists say they've found one group in particular that could be at risk.

Scientists from seven countries said there's a small but consistent risk of bladder cancer among male hairdressers and barbers.

They said it could be a result of exposure to the chemicals in hair dye.

But local stylists said they aren't terribly concerned.

Stylist and salon owner Jay Michael may worry about a small nick from the scissors now and then, but he said bladder cancer isn't on his radar.

"I've been in the business for over 30 years and I've worked with many, many male hair colorists. And we've never had any incidence of bladder cancer. For that matter, I've never heard of an incidence of cancer period relating to hair color," Michael said.

Carol Paris wears gloves when she prepares hair color and some dyes can be mixed right in the container without ever touching it.

Urologist Guy Bernstein said proper ventilation is important, as well.

"And also, if they are cigarette smokers, quit smoking so at least they reduce other risks of exposure to agents that could induce bladder cancer," Bernstein, of Bryn Mawr Hospital, said.

Bernstein said smoking is one of the greatest risk factors for bladder cancer.

Men are also more likely to develop the disease.

He's read the new research and said it adds to the bigger picture. He'll make sure his patients who are at risk know about it.

"This was a well-reviewed look at several studies over the past several decades and in its entirety, it is significant," Bernstein said.

Researchers say there is not enough evidence for a definitive answer about a link to cancer. But women like Betty Freidberg said even evidence confirming a link to cancer wouldn't stop her. She said she'd rather be hit by a Mack truck than let her hair go gray.

"No, I wouldn't stop dying my hair," Freidberg said.

Bernstein said he'd like to see more studies done to find out why only male hairdressers are linked to the bladder cancer increase.

He also wants to know if newer hair dyes are less risky than older ones.