In the past few years, hair smoothening treatments have taken over the world. Although the treatment is very popular and sounds fancy, it has some side effects. Let’s first understand what this treatment is all about.
Hair smoothing is a 4-step process. It involves thoroughly cleaning the hair with a deep-conditioning shampoo, applying formaldehyde to it, blow-drying the hair and straightening the hair with a flat-iron at high temperatures. Hair smoothening is a popular treatment for people with curly and wavy hair. It helps to reduce frizz, make hair more manageable, and add shine. Hair smoothening treatments use formaldehyde solutions that can be harmful to hair (2). You must be aware of these risks to properly weigh the pros and the cons, and to decide if you want to have the treatment performed.
The 10 Side Effects Of Hair Smoothening Treatment
1. Dandruff
Itchy scalps and dandruff are not something anyone likes (3). Hair smoothing treatments often leave residues on the hair which can cause dandruff. It is one of the most serious side effects from hair smoothening treatments.
2. It Can Lead to Hair Loss
Can hair smoothing cause hair fall? Yes, it is possible. The smoothing treatment does indeed result in silky, smooth hair. However, the aftereffects can be frightening. Salon visits may seem like a way to pamper your hair, but they can actually do more harm than benefit. These treatments can cause hair damage and breakage when your hair is exposed first to harsh chemicals, then to high heat.
3. May Cause Health Problems
This chemical is used to smooth hair and has a bad rep. A study found that too much formaldehyde exposure can lead to various health issues, including headaches, eye irritations, respiratory diseases, lung irritations, and shortness of breathe (6). Formaldehyde, a carcinogen, is also a threat to health in large quantities (4).
4. Can cause Scalp Inflammation
A hair smoothing process involves many steps and requires a professional salon to apply products to your hair. A study found that hair straightening can cause scalp inflammation. This is one of many side effects from hair smoothening treatments.
5. May Affect Your Hair Texture Negatively
The chemicals in hair smoothening treatments can damage your hair, and even break it in worst cases. If you’ve lost your natural hair texture, there is no way to restore it.
6. Can Cause Breathing Problems
It is a chemical that has a strong smell. If someone is exposed for a prolonged period of time to it, they may develop breathing problems. According to a study, hairdressers exposed to formaldehyde-containing hair straighteners lead to breathing problems and asthma (8).
7. Hair Shaft Damage
The hair shaft is the part of our hair that sticks out from the skin. Too much heat can damage your hair shaft (10). Hair straightening devices can also damage your hair, causing hair loss (7).
8. May Cause Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis can be characterized by rashy, itchy skin. It is often caused by an allergy (11). A study found that formaldehyde exposure can lead to allergic contact dermatitis. According to research, exposure to indoor forms of formaldehyde may worsen the symptoms of atopic skin disease in children (13).
9. May Cause Dizziness
The feeling of dizziness can be caused by a number of medical conditions, including lightheadedness or faintness (14). You are exposed to formaldehyde when you undergo a hair smoothening procedure. This chemical can cause dizziness if it is prolonged.
10. Keratin Denaturation Can Lead to Keratin Degradation
Hair is made up of keratin, which helps to keep hair healthy. Hair smoothening treatments involve heating your hair. According to some experimental studies, hair that is exposed to excessive heat can damage the hair cuticles and denature keratin. This is one the most serious side effects from hair smoothing treatments.
The Conclusion Of The Article Is:
Hair smoothing has both pros and cons. Hair keratin treatments without formaldehyde can be used to benefit from the procedure. To avoid adverse effects, you should only have hair smoothening done once every few months. To prevent hair damage you can also try making your own hair masks, eat healthy food and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
