In the world of hair-smoothing products, labels don't always tell the truth about what's in the container. The Minnesota Department of Health warned salon owners Wednesday that hair smoothing products may contain formaldehyde, a chemical compound linked to cancer, respiratory problems and eye, nose and skin irritation.
A number of products are labeled "formaldehyde free," even though tests by government scientists in Oregon and Canada found up to 8.8 percent formaldehyde.
"We hope salon owners will double-check their products to make sure they are not exposing their employees or customers to formaldehyde," Minnesota health commissioner Dr. Edward Ehlinger said.
Here's the list of the highest formaldehyde-infused products:
- Brazilian Blowout Acai Professional Smoothing solution "Formaldehyde Free" (8.8 percent
- Brazilian Blowout Solution (8.0 percent)
- Brazilian Gloss Keratin Smoothing Gloss (7.3 percent)
- Brazilian Thermal Reconstruction by Cadiveu (7.0 percent)
- Global Keratin Taming System with Juvexin Strawberry Resistant by Global Keratin (4.4 percent)
- Global Keratin Taming System Strawberry by Global Keratin (3.0 percent)
- Pro-Collagen RX Keratin Treatment (2.8 percent)
- IStraight Keratin (Advanced Keratin Treatment) by IBS Beauty (2.3 percent)
- Chocolate, extreme de-frizzing treatment (2.0 percent)
Click here for more info on the formaldehyde threat from hair products.
