WASHINGTON - Federal safety regulators say a popular hair smoothing treatment called Brazilian Blowout can release unsafe levels of the chemical formaldehyde, posing a risk to hair salon workers and their customers.
Government regulators also said they have found the chemical in a variety of hair products that are labeled "formaldehyde-free." The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating complaints from stylists and hair salon owners about the products.
Formaldehyde, which has been classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a probable carcinogen, can irritate the eyes, skin and lungs.
Many hair products contain the ingredient, but government regulations specify the amount, labeling and appropriate use.
The federal safety advisory issued follows similar announcements from Oregon, California and Connecticut health authorities.
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In one case, the federal government found excessive levels of formaldehyde in the air at a salon using Brazilian Blowout Acai Professional Smoothing Solution. The product is marketed by GIB LLC, which does business in the U.S. as Brazilian Blowout.
