In 2017 , the FDA released a letter informing consumers and salon professionals of the dangers formaldehyde poses in hair smoothing products that are commonly used. Hazard warnings on formaldehyde have been updated and released since 2010 when the investigation was opened. This investigation came about due to the reported concerns of consumers and hair professionals , questioning the safety of using hair smoothing products that contain formaldehyde.
In 2011, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration released a hazard alert of the use of formaldehyde in hair straightening/ smoothing products. Formaldehyde is a chemical that is typically used as a preservative in mortuaries and an ingredient in building materials. In the hair care industry, formaldehyde has been found in products such as Brazilian Blowout, KeraVino, and multiple perms. OSHA began to investigate the use of these products when hair salon owners and stylists began reporting possible formaldehyde exposure. This was reported on products that were labeled as formaldehyde -free. The FDA released a warning letter on the hair straightening products labeling them as misbranded. Formaldehyde is a health hazard that can cause coughing, wheezing, and allergic reactions. If formaldehyde is constantly inhaled over time, it can possibly cause cancer. The chemical is colorless but has a pungent smell
Typically, keratin-based hair straightening products contain formaldehyde that is activated in water or when the straightening product is paired with other hair products. If a consumer has an allergic reaction to formaldehyde, it can cause hair loss on the irritated scalp. OSHA advises consumers to read the product label to determine whether a hair product contains formaldehyde. In the hazard alert it states, “read the product label and MSDS to determine if they list methylene glycol or any of the other names for formaldehyde.” Formaldehyde can also be labeled as formalin, methanol, and methylene oxide.
The FDA has been able to regulate the use of products containing formaldehyde by holding manufactures accountable for properly labeling the ingredients. Manufacturers are also responsible for making sure the product is safe for use. If companies are found in violation of these standards, the FDA will issue a warning letter advising companies to correct their mistake.
The FDA also issues regulations for salon safety to protect clients and stylists. It is dangerous for both parties to be exposedto the chemical, therefore salons are required to properly ventilate their spaces incase an incident of exposer occurs. Salons that do not properly follow these safety precautions can be subjected to fines or a possible shut down. Formaldehyde is still investigated and the hazard alert continues to be updated as new discoveries occur.