Formaldehyde is a chemical substance that smells very strong and is capable of causing irritation to the eyes and nose and is used in laboratories and beauty salons. Frequent exposure to this substance can lead to changes in DNA and result in cancer of the mouth, nose and blood, for example.
In laboratories, for example, this substance is used to conserve animal species or anatomical parts, while in beauty salons it is widely used in straightening procedures.
Due to the indiscriminate use and in high concentrations in straightening products, ANVISA in 2009 determined that formaldehyde could only be used in small concentrations in cosmetic products due to possible damage to the body. Learn more about why formaldehyde is bad for your health.
Does the use of formaldehyde cause cancer?
The prolonged and continuous use or exposure to formaldehyde can lead to cancer, since its effects are cumulative. This is because formaldehyde can cause changes in DNA, which can result in the proliferation of abnormal cells and, consequently, cancer.
Due to its carcinogenic potential, the indiscriminate use of formaldehyde in cosmetic products was banned by ANVISA in 2009. Thus, it is only authorized by ANVISA that formaldehyde be used as a nail hardener in a concentration of up to 5% and as a preservative in a concentration up to 0.2%, and the manipulation of formaldehyde in beauty salons and the addition of formaldehyde to products registered by ANVISA is prohibited, since they already have the recommended formaldehyde concentration.
However, formaldehyde in the concentration authorized by ANVISA has no smoothing function and, therefore, some salons with additional formaldehyde to the product, which is not allowed. Thus, if, during the hair straightening procedure, a very strong odor characteristic of formaldehyde is felt, for example, it is important to inform ANVISA or the Health Surveillance so that an inspection can be carried out in the establishment, as the product may be adulterated.
Symptoms caused by the use of formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a toxic and strong-smelling substance, so frequent contact with formaldehyde or overuse can lead to symptoms such as:
- Skin irritation, which can be perceived through redness and burning; Eye irritation, with excessive tearing and conjunctivitis; Irritation of the respiratory tract, which can result in pulmonary edema; Decreased respiratory rate; Headache; Hair loss; Nausea; Diarrhea; Cough; Enlarged liver, in case of prolonged contact.
In addition, Anvisa and the World Health Organization (WHO) warn of the carcinogenic potential of this substance. According to research on the effects of formaldehyde in the body, it has been found that this substance has cumulative effects. Thus, prolonged and continuous exposure of formaldehyde can result in cancer of the throat, nose, larynx, trachea, lung and blood, for example.
In the case of beauty salons, professionals and clients who use formaldehyde straightening are often more likely to have reactions associated with exposure to the substance, in addition to greater chances of developing cancer. Therefore, it is important to avoid the use of formaldehyde and seek alternatives for these procedures. Here's how to straighten your hair.
