Brazilian Blowouts are hazardous to the health of hairdressers and customers, according to a report from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA.)
The products used for Brazilian Blowouts contain formaldehyde, a pungent chemical used to straighten curly hair. The OSHA released a hazardous warning on Monday after receiving several complaints from stylists and salon workers who had been exposed to products containing the known carcinogen.
Federal OSHA has found formaldehyde in the air when stylists used hair smoothing products, some of which do not have formaldehyde listed on their labels or in material safety data sheets as required by law. OSHA officials wrote in a press release. During one investigation, the agency's air tests showed formaldehyde at levels greater than OSHA's limits for a salon, even though the product tested was labeled as formaldehyde-free.
Exposure to formaldehyde can cause coughing and wheezing, skin-irritations, and blindness if it comes in contact with your eye. The National Cancer Institute also says that it has been tied to nose and lung cancer.
"Workers have the right to know the risks associated with the chemicals with which they work, and how to protect themselves," David Michaels, OSHA Assistant Secretary, said in a statement. "Employers need to know these risks in order to ensure the safety and health of their employees."
According to the OSHA, if salon owners choose to use products that contain formaldehyde they should follow certain health and safety steps, including installing air ventilation systems, supplying respirators to employees, and training employees how to properly use the products and clean up in case any spills occur. OSHA officials also recommend posting warning signs in areas where the products are being used.
