How straightening your hair could be affecting your health

Do you get your hair straightened often?

In the US, two groups are suing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) claiming that it failed to protect the public from the dangers associated with straightening treatments. The Environmental Working Group and Women’s Voices for the Earth say that the FDA has failed to adequately respond to the concerns raised about the health risks salon keratin hair products containing formaldehyde pose.

“For years stylists have reported that the application of these hair treatments caused difficulty breathing, eye irritation and nosebleeds,” “The FDA has been aware of the health hazards associated with the products since at least 2008. Despite these dangers, the FDA has yet to take action to remove them from the market.”  said Tina Sigurdson, EWG assistant general counsel.

The concern lies in the fact that product Keratin is often applied to the hair to straighten it. In hairdressers liquids is often applied to hair, which is then heated using blow dryers and straightening irons. The high temperatures of these hair styling tools cause the release of formaldehyde from the liquids into the air. Formaldehyde can potentially cause cancer. The suit seeks a court order for the FDA to respond and investigate the risks. This is not the first report about Keratin treatments being dangerous to hairdressers and customers. If you're concerned about the products your hairdressers uses talk to them about it in store.