In the pursuit of luscious locks and shine, many of us turn to salon treatments to pamper our hair and address those occasional bad hair days. From indulging in spa sessions to opting for specialized hair treatments, we’re often keen to give our tresses some extra love and attention.
However, when it comes to selecting the right hair treatment, particularly if you’re considering a keratin treatment, it’s crucial to exercise caution during your next salon appointment.
Keratin treatments, known for their ability to smooth and straighten hair, have gained popularity among those seeking to tame frizz and achieve sleek, manageable locks. Yet, despite their allure, these treatments come with potential risks and considerations that consumers should be aware of before taking the plunge.
In recent times, keratin hair treatments have surged in popularity, offering the allure of frizz-free, smooth, and straight hair.
However, a recent case study featured in The New England Journal of Medicine has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with such treatments. The study documented the case of a 26-year-old woman who underwent a hair-straightening procedure involving glyoxylic acid at a salon on three separate occasions between 2020 and 2022.
Following each visit, the woman experienced symptoms including fever, nausea, diarrhea, and back pain. Upon examination, doctors discovered elevated levels of creatinine in her blood, indicating potential kidney damage and impaired kidney function.
This case highlights the importance of understanding the potential health risks associated with certain hair treatments and the need for consumers to exercise caution and seek professional advice before undergoing such procedures. As journalists, it’s essential to disseminate this information to ensure that individuals can make informed decisions about their hair care routines while prioritizing their overall health and well-being.
According to Dr. Garima Aggarwal, a nephrology consultant at Manipal Hospital, keratin hair treatments have indeed been associated with kidney injury or damage.
Dr. Aggarwal notes that various studies have shed light on this connection, indicating that women who underwent hair straightening treatments experienced symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and scalp rash. In some cases, individuals even suffered from kidney failure. Notably, these studies have reported that none of the affected women had a history of kidney disease or any other health condition prior to undergoing the hair treatments.
Keratin hair treatment
For those curious about keratin, it’s essential to understand that it’s a protein naturally present in our hair, skin, and nails, acting as a foundational element to bolster their strength.
Dr. Meera Adhikari, a trichologist at Adhikari Lifeline Cosmetics Centre in Palghar, elaborates that keratin treatments are designed to tame frizz, enhance shine, and improve manageability of hair. Typically lasting anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, these treatments offer results that can endure for approximately 3 months.
Dr. Sonia Tekchandani, a dermatologist at Tender Skin International in Mumbai and a member of DocTube, elaborates that during a keratin treatment lasting between 3 to 6 months, a cream containing formaldehyde or methylene glycol—a chemical that releases formaldehyde during hair straightening—is applied to the hair. Subsequently, the hair is blow-dried and flat-ironed.
According to experts, while keratin treatment can temporarily enhance the visual appeal of hair by modifying its texture, it also poses the risk of causing damage and hair loss.
Is is a health hazard?
Dr. Aggarwal asserts that glyoxylic acid is responsible for the adverse effects observed in hair treatments.
“A significant number of hair straightening products now contain glyoxylic acid, a common ingredient found in facial creams and serums,” explains the doctor.
She further elucidates that during such hair treatments, the rapid absorption of glyoxylic acid from the scalp into the bloodstream results in its conversion to oxalate inside the body. Subsequently, oxalate accumulates in the kidneys, leading to severe kidney damage, a condition known as acute oxalate nephropathy.
“Many of the cases reported necessitated temporary dialysis therapy due to kidney failure following hair straightening,” Dr. Aggarwal emphasizes.
Side effects
According to Dr. Aggarwal, hair treatments originally contained formaldehyde, which was later found to be highly toxic and potentially carcinogenic.
“To eliminate formaldehyde from products, glyoxylic acid was introduced, but it has been found to cause adverse effects such as skin and scalp rashes, abdominal discomfort, and pain,” explains the doctor. “Some patients have even experienced respiratory distress in addition to kidney damage.”
Dr. Aggarwal highlights that the majority of mainstream keratin hair treatments in India contain either glyoxylic acid or its derivatives, emphasizing that the hair treatment industry in India lacks regulation.
Supporting this viewpoint, Dr. Adhikari concurs that excessive use of keratin hair treatments can result in various adverse effects on the hair, including dryness, breakage, and split ends, in addition to scalp irritation and allergic reactions.
Points to keep in mind before scheduling an appointment
- Before booking your appointment, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research on both the salon and the specific treatment being offered. It’s advisable to seek treatments only from experienced professionals.
- Consider scheduling a consultation with your stylist beforehand to discuss your hair type, concerns, and expectations. This will enable you to determine whether a keratin treatment is suitable for your hair.
- Take the time to carefully read the labels of the products being used, paying close attention to the ingredients, particularly if you have any allergies or sensitivities. Avoid harsh chemicals if possible.
- Familiarize yourself with the treatment process, including its duration, aftercare requirements, and potential side effects. Ask your stylist to explain the maintenance regimen required post-treatment.
- Refrain from applying medicated hair oils or serums before undergoing the treatment. Consider purchasing sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner in advance.
- After the treatment, avoid wetting your hair for at least three days. If your hair gets wet due to sweat or rainwater, make sure to dry it promptly.
- Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the condition of your hair and address any concerns or issues that may arise post-treatment.
- As for alternatives to keratin hair treatment, experts suggest considering deep conditioning treatments for intense hydration and overall hair health improvement. Protein treatments can also strengthen the hair shaft, reduce breakage, and enhance elasticity.
- Additionally, homemade hair masks using natural ingredients like avocado, honey, yogurt, and eggs offer deep conditioning benefits without the use of harsh chemicals. These masks can help moisturize, repair, and strengthen the hair.
