Riya Baibhawi

Proposed Ban On Formaldehyde In Hair-Straightening Products Remains In Limbo—Are There Safer Alternatives?

A plan by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban <span>formaldehyde</span> and certain formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in hair-straightening products remains stalled, raising concerns over public health risks. The Biden administration had considered banning these chemicals due to their links to cancer and other health issues, particularly affecting salon workers and consumers, but no official action was taken. Now, the fate of the rule rests with the Trump administration, leaving experts uncertain about its future.

There has been a slew of studies that link chemical hair relaxers and straightening products to an increased risk of hormone-related cancers—including breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers. These risks are particularly high among Black and Latina women, as these products are disproportionately marketed to them. A report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that only 21% of personal care products marketed to Black women are classified as low hazard, while others contain potentially harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates.

"Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, associated with an increased risk of cancer and reproductive harm. Salon workers and consumers face dangerous levels of exposure, leading to both short-term and long-term health effects," said Melanie Benesh, vice president of government affairs at EWG. People exposed to this chemical can face symptoms like stinging eyes, headaches, respiratory issues, and immune-related effects.

Meanwhile, a separate study published in the journal DOI stated that formaldehyde is known to cause a spectrum of health issues including respiratory illnesses, disruption of endocrine functions, neurological disorders, and cancer. It stated that formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen. 

<h2>Are There Safer Alternatives?</h2>With growing concerns about the health risks of formaldehyde in hair-smoothing treatments, many consumers are turning to safer alternatives. Fortunately, several formaldehyde-free options provide effective hair-straightening and frizz-control solutions without compromising health.

Keratin treatments without formaldehyde rely on natural proteins and amino acids to smooth hair while maintaining its integrity. These treatments offer temporary straightening effects without releasing harmful fumes. Additionally, botanical-based smoothing treatments, infused with ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and aloe vera, help tame frizz while nourishing hair.

Heat styling methods, such as ceramic or tourmaline flat irons, offer a temporary solution without the need for chemical treatments. Using protective serums and heat-resistant sprays can further minimize hair damage.

For those seeking long-term solutions, natural relaxers made from plant-based ingredients like cassia, burdock root, or banana extracts provide gentler alternatives to traditional chemical relaxers. Sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners also help maintain hair health while reducing exposure to toxic chemicals.

As awareness grows, more brands are investing in cleaner, non-toxic formulations. Reading ingredient labels carefully and choosing certified organic or formaldehyde-free products can ensure safer hair care without compromising beauty and style.

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A plan by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban formaldehyde and certain formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in hair-straightening products remains stalled, raising concerns over public health risks. The Biden administration had considered banning these chemicals due to their links to cancer and other health issues, particularly affecting salon workers and consumers, but no official action was taken. Now, the fate of the rule rests with the Trump administration, leaving experts uncertain about its future.Why ban Formaldehyde? There has been a slew of studies that link chemical hair relaxers and straightening products to an increased risk of hormone-related cancers—including breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers. These risks are particularly high among Black and Latina women, as these products are disproportionately marketed to them. A report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that only 21% of personal care products marketed to Black women are classified as low hazard, while others contain potentially harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates."Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, associated with an increased risk of cancer and reproductive harm. Salon workers and consumers face dangerous levels of exposure, leading to both short-term and long-term health effects," said Melanie Benesh, vice president of government affairs at EWG. People exposed to this chemical can face symptoms like stinging eyes, headaches, respiratory issues, and immune-related effects.Meanwhile, a separate study published in the journal DOI stated that formaldehyde is known to cause a spectrum of health issues including respiratory illnesses, disruption of endocrine functions, neurological disorders, and cancer. It stated that formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen. Are There Safer Alternatives?With growing concerns about the health risks of formaldehyde in hair-smoothing treatments, many consumers are turning to safer alternatives. Fortunately, several formaldehyde-free options provide effective hair-straightening and frizz-control solutions without compromising health.Keratin treatments without formaldehyde rely on natural proteins and amino acids to smooth hair while maintaining its integrity. These treatments offer temporary straightening effects without releasing harmful fumes. Additionally, botanical-based smoothing treatments, infused with ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and aloe vera, help tame frizz while nourishing hair.Heat styling methods, such as ceramic or tourmaline flat irons, offer a temporary solution without the need for chemical treatments. Using protective serums and heat-resistant sprays can further minimize hair damage.For those seeking long-term solutions, natural relaxers made from plant-based ingredients like cassia, burdock root, or banana extracts provide gentler alternatives to traditional chemical relaxers. Sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners also help maintain hair health while reducing exposure to toxic chemicals.As awareness grows, more brands are investing in cleaner, non-toxic formulations. Reading ingredient labels carefully and choosing certified organic or formaldehyde-free products can ensure safer hair care without compromising beauty and style.