Though this health issue is uncommon, it is possible. That’s why it’s important to spray hairspray in well-ventilated areas -- and to keep eyes closed if spraying near the face.
The next time you’re locking in that “perfect do,” remember to keep the door of the bathroom open. And if the bathroom isn’t well ventilated and the weather is nice, consider opening the windows.
Hair Straighteners
It’s no secret that hair straightening products can take hair from drab to fab in just seconds. But hair straighteners can come with a serious health risk.
So just what’s this health hazard? It’s a simple word with serious health consequences: formaldehyde.
In 2011, the United States Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), issued a hazard alert regarding hair smoothing products. The alert said that these products can contain formaldehyde.
“Formaldehyde is a highly reactive chemical that readily reacts with biological tissues, particularly the mucous tissues lining the respiratory tract and the eyes,” according to a warning letter issued by the FDA to a company with this chemical in its product.
“Adverse events have reported the following injuries associated with Brazilian Blowout: eye disorders (irritation, increased lacrimation, blurred vision, hyperaemia); nervous system disorders (headache, burning sensation, dizziness, syncope); and respiratory tract (dyspnea, cough, nasal discomfort, epistaxis, wheezing, rhinorrhea, throat irritation, nasopharyngitis). Other reported symptoms included nausea hypotrichosis, chest pain, chest discomfort, vomiting and rash.”