Cancer warning call over use of hair straightening products

A medical expert has warned over the health hazards including cancer caused by Brazilian hair treatment, highlighting the alert calls made by many international health organizations.

Consultant Dermatologist and Training Head at the Dermatology Department at Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC), Dr. Mariam Baaqi said that common hair-straightening products used in the Kingdom contain dangerous chemicals. All treatments including Brazilian treatment, keratin, collagen, and botox have its own dangers since they contain carcinogenic substances, she pointed out. “There are no natural hairs straightening products in the market as all of them contain chemicals that can adversely affect one’s health in the longer run,” Dr. Baaqi said.

“The Brazilian and keratin hair treatments, which are commonly prescribed at local salons, are not at all considered as hair nutrition. They include substances that would destroy the hair completely in the long term. “Women using these products should immediately stop and work on fixing the damage it caused to their hair and scalp, by using special conditioners and oil-rich shampoos, in addition to avoiding hair dye and follow healthy diets.”

“Women are always looking to improve their appearance to be more beautiful and attractive, so they often use hair care products that contain harmful substances, especially formaldehyde.

“This dangerous substance is found in high percentages in the Brazilian or keratin treatments. It causes irritation and rashes. It can also the eyes, nose, and throat.