Formaldehyde is a very strong chemical substance capable of causing eye and nose irritation and is used in laboratories and salons. Frequent exposure to this substance can lead to changes in DNA and result in cancer of the mouth, nose and blood, for example.
In laboratories, for example, this substance is used to preserve animal species or anatomical parts, while in salons it is widely used in straightening procedures.
Due to the indiscriminate use and high concentrations in the smoothing products, ANVISA in 2009 determined that formaldehyde could only be used in small concentrations in cosmetic products due to possible damage to the body. Learn more about why formaldehyde is bad for your health.
Does the use of formaldehyde cause cancer?
Prolonged and continuous use or exposure to formaldehyde may lead to the onset of cancer, as its effects are cumulative. This is because formalin can cause DNA changes, which can result in the proliferation of abnormal cells and, consequently, cancer.
Due to its carcinogenic potential the indiscriminate use of formaldehyde in cosmetic products was banned by ANVISA in 2009. Thus, it is only authorized by ANVISA that formaldehyde be used as a nail hardener in a concentration of up to 5% and as a preservative in a concentration of up to 0.2%, being prohibited the manipulation of the formaldehyde in the salons of beauty and addition of formaldehyde in products registered by ANVISA, since these already have the recommended formalin concentration.
However, the formaldehyde in the concentration authorized by ANVISA does not have a smoothing function and, therefore, some salons of additional beauty formol to the product, which is not allowed. Thus, if during the capillary straightening procedure a very strong odor characteristic of formaldehyde is felt, for example, it is important to inform ANVISA or the Sanitary Surveillance so that an inspection can be carried out in the establishment, since the product may be adulterated.
Symptoms caused by the use of formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a toxic substance with a strong odor, so frequent contact with formalin or overuse can lead to symptoms such as:
- Irritation of the skin, which can be perceived through redness and burning;
- Irritation of the eyes, with excessive tearing and conjunctivitis;
- Irritation of the respiratory tract, which may result in pulmonary edema;
- Decreased respiratory rate;
- Headache;
- Loss of hair;
- Nipple;
- Diarrhea;
- Cough;
- Liver enlargement in case of prolonged contact.
In addition, Anvisa and the World Health Organization (WHO) warn of the carcinogenic potential of this substance. According to research on the effects of formaldehyde on the body, it has been found that this substance has cumulative effects. Thus, prolonged and continuous exposure of formalin may result in cancer of the throat, nose, larynx, trachea, lung and blood, for example.
In the case of beauty salons professionals and clients who make formalin-based straighteners are often more likely to have reactions associated with exposure to the substance, as well as greater chances of developing cancer. Therefore, it is important to avoid the use of formaldehyde and seek alternatives to these procedures. Here's how to straighten your hair.
