Which are the Best and Worst London Tube Lines for Your Hair Health?

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It is reported that 3.23 million people use the London underground every day. The Tube is the world’s oldest underground railway network, with the first line opening back in 1863. Today, it spans 11 lines, 272 stations and over 250 miles of track. As the oldest underground railway network and the most popular method of transport in London, the underground is subject to dust, particulate matter and air pollution that accumulates on platforms, tunnels and stations that require regular monitoring by the Greater London Authority and Transport for London (TfL). Dust on the tube is different to pollution above ground and is made up of a mix of:

• Metal particles – most of which are iron oxide, caused by track and wheel wear, and braking
• Organic matter like skin and hair
• Mineral dusts

The dust levels in the areas mentioned above remain below occupational limits which are set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). While the London underground poses no significant health risks to commuters, through the implementation of multi-million-pound programmes and the use of new cleaning methods and innovations, regular exposure to particulate matter, air pollution and dust can negatively impact your health, particularly your appearance, such as skin and hair health.

Several scientific journals have analysed the exposure to particulate matter and the link to human hair loss. The findings showed a positive correlation between small-diameter particulate matter, which can penetrate the hair follicles in vivo and induce an inflammatory response. Other studies found that penetrated particulate matter from air pollution can get into the skin cells around hair follicles. When this happens, the cells produce more harmful molecules (ROS) and inflammatory signals, which can lead to cell death and may slow down or damage hair growth.

To find out which tube lines could be the most damaging to your hair health, we analysed data from the Greater London Authority and Transport for London reviewing temperatures across each tube station, particulate matter, dust levels, air conditioning and bacteria found. We listed the tube stations from best to worst based on these parameters. Our research has uncovered some interesting results.

Key findings

• The Victoria line is the worst line for hair health
• The Hammersmith and City Line is the best for hair health
• Holborn station has been found to have the most respirable dust
• Waterloo Station has been found to have the most particulate matter

Which Tube Line is the Worst for Your Hair Health?

The Victoria line has been found to have the most harmful bacteria present in the station, is the hottest (a breeding ground for bacteria!) and has the most particulate matter present. This is all without air conditioning circulating the tube and platform. 

The Victoria line was closely followed by the Central Line, Bakerloo Line and the Northern Line. 

Exposure to high levels of particulate matter, harmful bacteria, high temperatures, and dust without air conditioning can have a significant impact on hair health. Fine dust particles and pollutants can accumulate on the scalp, clogging hair follicles and leading to irritation, dandruff, and even conditions like folliculitis. The presence of harmful bacteria in warm, humid conditions increases the risk of scalp infections, which can weaken the hair roots and contribute to hair loss.

Additionally, excessive heat can dry out both the scalp and hair strands, stripping them of natural moisture and leading to increased brittleness, frizz, and breakage.

Which are the Worst UK Tube Stations for Respirable Dust?

Respirable dust refers to tiny airborne particles that are small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, typically measuring 10 micrometres (PM₁₀) or smaller, with PM₂.₅ (particles 2.5 micrometres or smaller). These particles can penetrate the respiratory system, reaching the bronchioles and alveoli, where they may cause respiratory irritation, lung inflammation, and long-term health issues such as asthma, reduced lung function, and cardiovascular diseases if levels aren’t monitored regularly.

Transport for London (TfL) analyses respirable dust in the underground to monitor air quality and assess potential health risks for passengers and workers.

The tube station with the highest levels of respirable dust present was Holborn Station, followed by Piccadilly Circus and Moorgate Station. 

Respirable dust can negatively impact hair health by accumulating on the scalp and hair strands. These tiny particles can clog hair follicles, causing irritation, itching, and even scalp conditions like dandruff or folliculitis. The fine dust can unbalance the scalp’s natural oil production, making hair either excessively greasy (as the scalp overproduces oil to compensate) or excessively dry and brittle.

Additionally, respirable dust often contains pollutants and heavy metals, which can generate oxidative stress on the scalp and hair. This oxidative damage weakens hair proteins like keratin, leading to increased hair breakage, thinning, and even premature greying. Over time, prolonged exposure to airborne dust without proper cleansing can make hair look dull, lifeless, and more prone to shedding.

The UK Tube Stations with the Highest Levels of Particulate Matter

Particulate matter (PM) refers to a mixture of tiny solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. These particles vary in size and composition and can include dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and microscopic pollutants such as heavy metals, organic compounds, and toxic chemicals.

The tube stations with the highest levels of particulate matter were Waterloo Station, Highbury and Islington, Westminster and Kennington Station. 

Particulate matter (PM) in the London Underground can impact hair health following prolonged exposure to fine metal particles, dust, and pollutants generated from train brakes, tracks, and tunnel surfaces. 

Pollutants in the air can break down the lipid barrier of the hair shaft, leading to brittleness, frizz, and split ends. The poor ventilation also means that hair easily absorbs pollutants, sweat, and odours, making it feel dirty, greasy, and weighed down more quickly than usual.

How to Protect Your Hair During Your Commute?

There are several ways commuters can protect their hair on the London underground. These include:

• Wearing scarves and hats can minimise direct exposure to pollutants 
• Use a clarifying shampoo at least once a week or every 10-14 days, depending on how your hair feels and looks
• Use a leave-in conditioner 2-3 times a week, which will add a layer of moisture and protection against airborne pollutants 
• Use a deep-conditioning hair mask once a week. This helps replenish lost moisture, strengthen hair strands, and protect against environmental stressors. For extra nourishment, look for masks with hyaluronic acid, keratin, or antioxidants to combat oxidative stress from particulate matter.
• Avoid touching your hair. Tube surfaces (handrails, seats, buttons) carry dirt and bacteria, which can transfer to your hair if you run your hands through it. Keeping hair tied back and avoiding unnecessary touching can help keep it cleaner for longer.

Methodology

To find the worst and best tube lines for your hair health, we created an index using data from:

• Transport for London (TfL) reports on airborne dust monitoring at various London Underground stations
• Greater London Authority detailing average monthly temperatures on the tube lines
• The London Metropolitan University for the bacteria and mould lurking on London’s underground lines