Is The Brazilian Blow Dry Safe?

The Brazilian Blow Dry treatment is a revolutionary hair straightening system that uses keratin instead of chemicals to achieve amazing results. The treatment smoothes even the frizziest, curliest hair and reverses any damaged areas of the hair shaft. Unlike other straightening treatments that can damage hair, the Brazilian Blow Dry actually improves the condition and the health of the client’s hair. This is because it uses keratin which is a protein high in sulphur and cystine that is naturally found in hair and nails. This is combined with formaldehyde to form the straightening solution which is then fused onto the outer layer of hair with a very hot flat iron. The result is silky, smooth and manageable hair that lasts for approximately three months.

 Even though the treatment is very effective at straightening and repairing any damage to the hair shaft, the use of formaldehyde in the process has caused controversy as it can pose possible health dangers. Firstly it is important to understand that there are small amounts of formaldehyde present all around us. The substance occurs naturally and is found in many man-made products. However, these small amounts of formaldehyde used in manufactured products do not cause problems as it breaks down slowly under normal circumstances and is not rapidly released into the environment.  

 However, when exposed to heat and moderate levels of humidity the breakdown process of formaldehyde is accelerated thus releasing the chemical into the atmosphere. Experts find the use of formaldehyde particularly problematic as the substance can bond and stick around for quite a long time, meaning that is can be hard to wash out in a few shampoos. The major concern is that the chemical could accumulate on the hair over time and then could be re-released every time the hair comes into contact with water or heat. If a person was to use the Brazilian Blow Dry as a long-term solution to straightening hair then this would result in long-term exposure to the substance and possible accumulation on the hair.

 So what problems can exposure to formaldehyde cause? More than others, some people are just naturally highly sensitive to formaldehyde and others that are not as sensitive may over time develop an allergy to it. It is part of the chemical’s make up to stir up the immune system and cause sensitivity so it can be hard to protect ones self. The symptoms of sensitivity to the chemical include a runny nose, sore throat, headache, itching and irritated eyes. These symptoms usually indicate a low level of exposure. The chemical is also a known carcinogen and smokers in particular may be at a greater risk of contracting cancer of the airways, including nasal passages when exposed to formaldehyde.

So, is there anyway that we can protect ourselves? Well firstly if you are a pregnant women, a person with diminished lung function or person who is know to be formaldehyde sensitive then you should just avoid the Brazilian Blow Dry treatment altogether. You must make a great effort to avoid exposure as this is the best way to stay safe. If you do decide to go ahead with the Brazilian Blow Dry treatment you must make sure that you are completely aware of the risks involved by having an in-depth consultation with your stylist. If you are in any doubt you must not hesitate to ask, after all it is your health that is at risk.

If you work as a stylist in a salon that performs the Brazilian Blow Dry treatment or if you perform the treatment yourself, you must make sure that you are protected by wearing gloves when handling the chemical as you are as just as at risk as your clients. Also installing a proper ventilation system can help. If during the straightening process you experience any of the symptoms associated with low levels of exposure you should try and get some fresh air and if the product is already on the hair you should ask the stylist to ventilate the room and rinse the product out of hair as soon as possible. You need to keep an eye on your health after the treatment and if you experience any shortness of breath, accompanied by hives or burning sensations around your head you need to see a doctor straight away and make sure you are in a ventilated area if possible.

If you are worried about formaldehyde exposure then there are other ways that you can straighten your hair without chemicals. Invest in a good pair of ceramic straightners; just remember to protect your hair with a good heat protection spray beforehand. 

If you do decide to go ahead with the Brazilian Blow Dry treatment then there is no better place to have it done than at Inanch salon in London. For more information and to book a consultation today click  here!