Is a Brazilian Keratin Treatment Safe?
If you suffer from dry, unruly and damaged hair then you may have heard of the Brazilian keratin treatment. Created in Brazil, this treatment has proven to turn frizzy, coarse hair into silky, shiny tresses. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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The Brazilian keratin treatment uses formaldehyde to bind keratin protein to the hair. To seal the treatment, the hair is then flat-ironed with a 450-degree ceramic iron, resulting in thicker, stronger, healthier hair.
Safety
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Although millions of women have been happy with the effects of the treatment, it may not be safe for your health. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), formaldehyde in high percentages can cause cancer. To be effective, the treatment requires a large dosage of formaldehyde.
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Chemical Issues
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Although formaldehyde is a chemical compound found in household products, the FDA says it is safe as long as it does not exceed .2 percent. The formaldehyde in the Brazilian keratin treatment can go as high as 8 percent.
Unhealthy Levels
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With .2 percent of formaldehyde, the Brazilian keratin treatment is not effective as a straightener. Because of this, manufacturers go as high as possible to get the best effect from the treatment. This is where it becomes unhealthy.
Expert Insight
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Because the treatment has only been around for a few years, no scientific studies prove if it is safe or not. However, because of the high dosage of formaldehyde used, medical experts recommend that you stay away from the treatment.
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