The Brazilian blowout is a hair styling treatment taking North America by storm for its ability to tame frizzy, damaged and processed hair. Yet, there are potentially serious health consequences associated with its use – just last week Health Canada issued an advisory that it has received complaints of burning eyes, nose, and throat, breathing difficulties, and one report of hair loss associated with use of the Brazilian blowout product.
Independent testing conducted by Health Canada found that the Brazilian Blowout Solution contains 12% formaldehyde. Permitted in cosmetics at less than 0.2% when used as a preservative, the product far exceeds the maximum allowed concentration. Formaldehyde is a known irritant as well as a sensitizer, and is linked to cancer in humans when inhaled chronically over a long period of time. Health Canada believes that the reactions are being caused by formaldehyde becoming aerosolized during the blow drying and flat ironing stages of the treatment. Any procedure containing formaldehyde above the allowable limits (0.2%) places clients and stylists at increased risk.
Consumers who have experienced adverse reactions to the Brazilian Blowout treatment are advised to seek medical attention. There isn’t any cause for concern to consumers who have used the product without a reaction. Health Canada has advised stylists to stop using Brazilian Blowout treatments immediately. It is also working with the Canadian distributor to address concerns regarding safety of the treatment.
