The FDA has published an educational guide for consumers titled “Formaldehyde in Hair Smoothing Products: What You Should Know”.
The guide addresses professional hair straightening and smoothing solutions, some of which may contain formaldehyde. The ingredient may be released into the air as a gas when application of the solution is followed by use of a flat iron device to seal the solution into the hair.
For the safety of salon workers it is important for salons that perform such services to be properly ventilated. Present in the air at levels exceeding 0.1 ppm, it can cause serious irritation of your eyes, nose, and lungs.
The guide includes safety recommendations for consumers who are considering hair straightening and smoothing services, as well as downloadable fact sheets and infographics.
