Is Keratin Hair Treatment Safe

Dear Reader,  

If you’re thinking about getting a keratin hair treatment, it makes sense to straighten out the facts. Keratin is used to change hair texture, limit frizz, and increase shine. However, some research has raised concerns about ingredients used in keratin treatments that might be linked to health concerns, including cancer. Read on to learn more about the health risks and possible alternatives to keratin hair treatments.  

What kind of keratin treatments are available? 

• In-salon keratin treatments. These are treatments done in a salon by a professional hairstylist. In these treatments, keratin is applied to the hair and “heat-sealed” with a blow dryer and straightener. This process releases chemicals into the air. However, they can be expensive, time-intensive, and require significant upkeep. 
• At-home keratin treatments. Some people may opt for at-home treatments. They’re typically more affordable, but they may not be as effective as salon treatments. These also require a keratin solution to be applied and “heat-sealed”, which releases chemicals into the air.  
• Keratin-infused products like shampoos and conditioners. These can be used every day because they’re easy to use and don’t need to be heat-sealed. They also don’t contain the risky chemicals associated with keratin treatments. They’re meant to strengthen hair, add shine, and reduce frizz, gradually over time.  

What are the health risks associated with keratin hair treatments? 

There’s growing evidence that keratin hair treatments and other chemical hair straightening products may have health risks. Part of the concern comes from endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), like formaldehyde, that are released when heat is applied during blow-drying or flat ironing. Formaldehyde is a common ingredient in most keratin treatments and acts as a straightening agent. Inhaling formaldehyde and other EDCs, even at a low amount, may lead to health concerns, including:  

• Cancer. These treatments may be associated with certain cancers, including uterine, breast, ovarian, thyroid, and pancreatic cancers. 
• Asthma. Asthma and respiratory irritation may be linked to repeated exposure to chemical fumes in the treatment. Exposure may increase the risk of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and other breathing issues. 
• Acute kidney injury. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is caused when the kidney suddenly loses its ability to effectively filter your blood, leading to serious complications.  
• Uterine fibroids. Some studies suggest frequent use of hair relaxers may be associated with a higher risk of uterine fibroids.  

In addition to possible long-term health risks, other associated health concerns are worth untangling. Exposure to formaldehyde and other chemicals can cause eye irritation, headaches, dizziness, sore throat, coughing, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and skin rashes. These symptoms usually happen during or shortly after treatment. 

While some people experience symptoms after just one keratin treatment, the risk increases as exposure increases. Hair care professionals have the most exposure and may be at higher risk for long- and short-term health effects.  

Is formaldehyde-free really risk-free? 

In response to the risks associated with formaldehyde, many keratin treatments are now marketed as “formaldehyde-free.” However, studies have shown significant levels of formaldehyde even in so-called formaldehyde-free treatments. One reason might be that some of the chemicals that replace formaldehyde can still release formaldehyde when they’re heated. Common examples include: 

• Glycolic acid 
• Glyoxylic acid 
• Methylene glycol 
• Formalin 

What are some alternatives to keratin hair treatments? 

If you’re concerned about formaldehyde and other chemical exposure, there are other ways to support your hair from the roots up without relying on harsh chemicals. While these options may not give the exact same straightening effect, they can still help reduce dryness and frizz. 

Some alternatives include: 

• Keeping your hair moisturized. Using heat-styling tools can dry out your hair. Moisturizers like argan oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or shea butter may help improve shine and softness.  
• Eating foods that support hair health. Foods like fish, avocados, olives, eggs, spinach, nuts, and blueberries contain healthy fats and vitamins that support hair health. 
• Rinsing hair with cold water. Using cold water after shampooing helps close the hair cuticle. This can lock in moisture and make hair appear shinier.  
• Massaging your scalp. Giving yourself a daily five minute scalp massage may help stimulate blood flow and encourage natural oil production. This can support overall hair health.  

List adapted from Healthline 

You can also talk with a licensed hairstylist about alternative hair treatments. They can help you find options with fewer chemicals that may be a better fit for your hair. 

Is there a safer way to get keratin hair treatments? 

If you decide to get a keratin hair treatment, it’s generally safer to have it done by a licensed hairstylist in a salon rather than trying it at home. Without proper ventilation or safety precautions, at-home keratin treatments can be risky. Salon professionals are trained to handle the product by using protective gear and making sure the space is well ventilated to reduce fume exposure.   

Before getting a treatment, you can also talk with your stylist and ask questions like: Can you share the full ingredient list? Have you been trained to use this product safely? Does the salon have proper ventilation? What precautions do you take to reduce exposure?  

If you’re weighing whether it’s worth it, it often comes down to balancing the cosmetic benefits with these potential health concerns. You can also talk to a hairstylist about safer alternatives that can help achieve smoother, shinier hair. 

Stay glossy,