Is Keratin Harmful or Not?
Keratin itself is not harmful; it's a naturally occurring protein in our hair, skin, and nails. However, keratin hair treatments can pose risks due to the presence of formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in many products.
Several sources highlight the potential harm associated with certain keratin treatments:
- Formaldehyde Exposure: Many keratin treatments contain formaldehyde or release formaldehyde when heated. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and irritant. [Source: Vogue, CNBC, Healthline]
- Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of formaldehyde fumes during keratin treatments can lead to coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory problems. [Source: Healthline, Reddit r/HaircareScience]
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, after keratin treatments. [Source: Healthline]
- Other Side Effects: Other reported side effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, eye irritation, and chest pain. [Source: Healthline]
- Long-term Effects: The long-term effects of repeated exposure to formaldehyde from keratin treatments are still being studied, but concerns exist. [Source: Vogue, CNBC]
The Importance of Professional Application and Product Selection
While the keratin protein is harmless, the chemicals in some keratin treatments are not. Choosing a reputable salon and a treatment that is low in or free of formaldehyde is crucial. [Source: Quora, Byrdie] Even with careful product selection and application, there is always a small level of risk involved.
Summary
The safety of keratin treatments depends heavily on the product's formulation and application method. While keratin itself is harmless, some products contain potentially harmful chemicals. Therefore, it's essential to be informed and choose wisely.
