If you or a loved one have frequently received Brazilian Blowouts and have been diagnosed with cancer, contact the attorneys at Belluck & Fox today.
What is a Brazilian Blowout?
A Brazilian Blowout (also known as Brazilian hair straightening) is a hair-smoothing and frizz-reducing method that temporarily infuses hair with liquid keratin and a preservative solution. The keratin and solution are sealed into the hair with a hair iron that must be heated to a minimum of 380 degrees.
Are Brazilian Blowouts dangerous?
Although not always present, formalin (a form of formaldehyde) and methylene glycol are often active ingredients in Brazilian Blowout straighteners. When the formalin and methylene glycol solution is heated, formaldehyde is released into the air as a gas. In poorly ventilated homes and salons, exposure to formaldehyde can cause myriad symptoms including headaches, dizziness, coughing, nausea, and in some cases, cancer.
In the early 2000s, the Food and Drug Administration began receiving complaints from consumers and salon professionals regarding their safety in using products containing formaldehyde (including the Brazilian Blowout solution). In 2010, the FDA enlightened the public about the potential dangers of using formaldehyde-containing products, including the Brazilian Blowout straightener, and in 2016, the FDA deemed formaldehyde-containing hair straighteners unfit for use.
Do Brazilian Blowouts contain formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde (H2CO), also known as formalin, is a colorless gas with a pickle-like odor that is used in building materials, household products, and beauty products. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified formaldehyde as a human carcinogen because at high levels or prolonged exposure, it has been linked to certain kinds of cancer. As aforementioned, formaldehyde in the forms of formalin and methylene glycol can become formaldehyde when heated.
How can formaldehyde still be present in Brazilian Blowout straighteners if it is illegal?
Although it is illegal to use formaldehyde in beauty products and tools like the Brazilian Blowout straightener, formalin and methylene glycol, which are too often present in these straightening solutions, can turn into formaldehyde when exposed to heat and air.
What should I do next?
Those who have been diagnosed with cancer and have regularly received or given Brazilian Blowout treatments should reach out to Belluck & Fox attorneys immediately for a free consultation on your legal options. It is also recommended that you contact your medical provider for guidance and discontinue the straightening treatments immediately.
Why should I choose Belluck & Fox?
Belluck & Fox is a nationally recognized law firm that fights for its clients and their families as if they were our own. We don’t just know the law, in many cases we helped to write it. When you work with us, you start your journey with one of our firm’s Partners, and have regular access to them or one of our experienced attorneys throughout the entire process. We have secured over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements holding corporations accountable.