Beauty Salons

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Beauty & Nail Salons

Formaldehyde in Brazilian Blowouts and Other Hair Straightening Products

If you or anyone in your salon uses hair straightening products, here is some important information for you to consider. A group of hair straightening products known as 'Brazilian Keratin Treatment' (BKT) may contain formaldehyde.

Exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and/or skin. People with asthma or other respiratory diseases may be more sensitive than others to the effects of breathing formaldehyde.

Formaldehyde is classified as a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing chemical). Formaldehyde exposure in some occupations has been linked to cancer of the nasal passages and upper throat.

Learn more about Formaldehyde in Hair Straightening Products from the New York State Department of Health

These products are used widely locally and nationally. Federal authorities are investigating worker exposure and assessing health risks. Call the Poison Control Center at (212) POISONS (764-7667) if you have experienced any health effects from using these products.

Nail Salons

Workers in nail salons are at risk for exposure to chemicals, physical injury, and/or infection. There are steps that nail salon workers and employers can take to prevent injuries and illness. Read more about the health risks of working in a nail salon.

More Resources

Hair Smoothing Products Hazard Alert (OSHA)