Many people, in search of permanently straight hair, end up performing the so-called progressive brush with formaldehyde. However, this method used by many hairdressers can cause serious damage not only to the hair, but also poses many risks to the health of the professional and the client.
That's why Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency) banned the use of Formaldehyde in this hair treatment. To understand the seriousness of this issue, let's look at the chemical structure of formaldehyde and the consequences of its use.
Formaldehyde, also known as formaldehyde, is an organic compound belonging to the group of aldehydes.Its molecular formula is CH2The and its official nomenclature is metanal. Its main use is as a preservative for corpses and cadaver parts, but it is also used as a preservative in rubber, adhesives, gelatins and juices, production of some chemical products, confection of artificial silk, glass, mirrors, dyes and explosives.
Structural formula of Formaldehyde (Methanal)
Its use as a raw material for cosmetic preservatives is allowed with a maximum limit of 0.2% and as a nail hardener with a limit of 5%. However, to act as a straightener, its concentration increases to 37%; a really very high concentration, since in contact with the heat of the dryer, this aldehyde releases vapors with a penetrating and irritating odor. If inhaled, they can cause acute intoxication, irritation to the skin, eyes, nostrils, respiratory tract and mucosa. In addition, the WHO (World Health Organization) considers this compound as a carcinogen.
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Even the hair that should be the main beneficiary of this treatment is greatly harmed. Formaldehyde destroys the molecules that make up the thread, creating a layer that covers the internal damage.. In addition to the breakage and drying of the threads, the oiliness of the scalp increases, as this “cover” does not allow the hair's natural oil to flow through the threads.
So, remember: the money to be earned or the straight hair only temporarily is not worth it when compared to the harm caused by this process.
By Jennifer Fogaça
Graduated in Chemistry
Brazil School Team
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
FOGAÇA, Jennifer Rocha Vargas. "Progressive Brush using Formaldehyde"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/quimica/escova-progressiva-com-uso-formol.htm. Accessed on June 28, 2021.
