Brazilian hair straightening or Keratin straightening has become a very popular beauty treatment over the last few years. This type of treatment, which usually lasts for about 10 weeks, can help keep your locks very straight and “frizz” free. If you wear your hair in a straight style, this type of treatment can improve the appearance of your hair and reduce the time needed for styling each day.
What Is A Keratin Treatment?
Keratin is a naturally occurring protein found in hair. The protein is mixed with a solution and using a flat iron is fused to the hair. The heat from the flat iron seals the protein to your hair. Once applied, you will see a noticeable difference in the appearance and shine of your hair and the strength of the strands.
It is recommended that you do not wash your hair for three or four days after the treatment. This allows the protein to form a secure bond with the hair. Once you are able to wash the hair, it is recommended that you use sodium and sulfate free shampoo.
Is the Treatment Harmful?
There has been a significant amount of bad press about keratin treatments. Several countries in Europe have banned the treatment, stating that there it is a health risk. However, these statements may be a little over zealous.
Keratin treatment products do contain small amounts of formaldehyde. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Occupational Health and Safety (OSHA) have reviewed these products carefully and have deemed them safe for use.
The product, when applied to the hair strands, poses absolutely no risk to the client from the formaldehyde. However, safety concerns were raised when it was realized that these low levels of formaldehyde may become dangerous to the salon workers that use the product continually each day. When the product was first introduced, eye irritation, nose bleeds, and harsh fumes were among the symptoms reported by many stylists.
Extensive studies have been conducted and it has been determined that the newly available products pose no harm to the salon worker or the client. In the past, when salons were mixing their own forms of keratin instead of purchasing pre-made product, the possibility of injury was much greater. If you experienced ill effects from exposure, and are located in the southeastern region of the U.S., seek medical attention, and then contact a personal injury attorney in Atlanta Georgia to discuss your legal rights to claim compensation. Now, these products are regulated through the FDA, and formaldehyde levels are low and harmless.
Are FDA Decisions Failproof?
When the keratin interacts with the flat iron, it will emit formaldehyde fumes. These fumes can irritate the eyes, nasal passages, lungs, and skin. When inhaled, these fumes can also be considered a carcinogenic. Formaldehyde fumes are the most dangerous form of this chemical because it easily bonds with your cells.
Sadly, it is not unusual for the FDA to issue a statement that a product, medicine or device is safe to use, only to retract that statement at a later date and issue warnings. Formaldehyde is a known toxin. The potential to be harmed by any amount of formaldehyde is still in question. Before using this product, do your research on the specific product and discuss any concerns with your stylist. If you feel safe about your hair treatment, you will be free to enjoy and show off your new “fab” hair style.
Teresa Stewart enjoys trying new hair treatments, and writes to warn readers that even if a product is “hot,” it may not be 100% safe. Stokes & Kopitsky, P.A. will provide a personal injury attorney in Atlanta Georgia who will meet at a convenient location and time including weekends, and nights. They will work diligently to provide legal representation for anyone injured by a formaldehyde product.
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