Khaberni - A recent study by Emory University in the USA revealed a strong link between chemical hair straightening treatments and an increased risk of several types of cancer, reigniting the debate over the safety of these globally prevalent products.
The researchers explained that the chemical formaldehyde, used in treatments like keratin and Brazilian blowouts, can emit dangerous gases when hair is exposed to heat, especially in poorly ventilated areas, placing the head and neck at serious health risks.
The study was based on data from more than 46,000 women participants in the Sister Study, who were aged between 35 and 74, and were followed for an average of 13 years.
The results were shocking, as the use of hair straightening substances was linked to a significant increase in risks of:
Pancreatic cancer: +166%
Thyroid gland cancer: +71%
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma: +62%
Risks jumped to higher levels for those who used these products more than four times a year, while a possible link with kidney cancer was observed, but it was not precisely determined.
Clear racial differences in the usage of these substances
The results showed a notable gap in the popularity of hair straightening products:
66% of Black women
25% of Latina women
Only 1.3% of White women
This means that the health risks may be higher in certain communities.
Movements to impose restrictions and bans
The escalating concerns have prompted countries and regulatory bodies to take action, such as the European Union and several U.S. states. In Washington, a complete ban will be applied on formaldehyde and compounds that release it in cosmetic products starting from the beginning of 2027, under the "Toxics-Free Cosmetics Act".
Call for further research
The researchers emphasized the need to precisely identify the most dangerous components, confirming that these results expand the list of health risks associated with chemical hair straightening products.
The study was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, adding new scientific evidence that increases the concerns of millions of users around the world.
