Why Keratin hair treatment is bad for you?

Formaldehyde has been linked to health problems in people who apply it to their hair, as well as those who work with it regularly. The chemical can lead to immediate short-term irritation of the eyes, skin, and upper respiratory tract. As well as more serious long term side effects, such as cancer.

Keratin is a semi-permanent hair smoothing system that targets the cuticle, or the outside layer of the hair. If applied in a wrong way or with the wrong concentration, serious problems may develop.

The U.S FDA announced that Keratin treatment is harmful. It contains formulas with methylene glycol and formalin (that turn into formaldehyde gas when heated), which are carcinogenic. The Environmental Protection Agency OSHA declared that formaldehyde is linked to nasal cancer and leukemia.

Hair stylists say that the temperature at which the hair is heated to proceed with the keratin treatment process is very high, which is 450 degree with a flat iron. As a result, the liquid formaldehyde converts to toxic gas vapors. 

In The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, scientists said that in cosmetics, products should not be aerosolized. However, keratin is aerosolized causing breathing problems, nosebleeds and eye irritation. (See Why do we develop grey or white hair?)

Scientists advise that formaldehyde should not exceed 0.2% in cosmetic products. However, Oregon OSHA found products labelled as 'formaldehyde-free' containing up to 12% formaldehyde. Hair salons' workers mix their own to incorporate more formaldehyde for more straightened hair.

Formaldehyde can trigger a severe allergic reaction causing serious respiration problems when inhaled repeatedly. (See 10 Side effects of Dying Hair with Henna)

When absorbed through the skin, formaldehyde can cause permanent central nervous system damage.

Hair experts suggest that doing an in-salon hair-smoothing treatment more than three times a year can cause the hair to become more brittle and prone to breakage.

The processing tools and additives included with the keratin products can lead to hair loss if not added with the allowed percentage. Also, if the person applying the product to the hair is unprofessional and unexperienced, he might harm the scalp or hair badly.