[Source – IndiaToday]
Health experts are sounding the alarm on the potential hazards associated with certain hair treatments after a young woman experienced kidney injuries following a session at a salon. The case, documented in the New England Journal of Medicine, has raised concerns regarding the safety of smoothing and straightening hair products.
Patient’s Experience
A 26-year-old Tunisian woman encountered three instances of acute kidney injuries between June 2020 and July 2022, as detailed in a recent publication in the New England Journal of Medicine. French medical professionals, in a letter to the editor, attributed these injuries to specific hair products used during salon treatments.
Prior to seeking medical assistance, the woman had no preexisting health conditions. However, she presented symptoms including vomiting, fever, diarrhea, and back pain shortly after undergoing hair treatments at the salon. Each episode of acute kidney injury coincided with the day of the hair treatment session.
Examination Findings
Medical evaluation revealed elevated plasma creatinine levels in the woman’s blood, indicative of kidney dysfunction. Plasma creatinine, a byproduct of muscle metabolism, is normally filtered by the kidneys. The presence of increased levels suggested impaired kidney function following exposure to certain hair treatment chemicals.
The hair-straightening cream utilized by the salon contained 10% glyoxylic acid, a chemical believed to be responsible for the observed kidney damage. Researchers highlight glyoxylic acid’s role in inducing calcium oxalate-related nephropathy, underscoring the potential nephrotoxicity associated with its use in hair-straightening formulations.
Safety Concerns and Recommendations
Expressing concern over the nephrotoxic effects of topical glyoxylic acid, experts advocate for the avoidance and discontinuation of products containing this compound. The call extends to the market withdrawal of such formulations to prevent further instances of kidney damage among consumers.
The article cites an instance in Israel where 26 patients suffered acute kidney injuries following “Brazilian-style” hair-straightening procedures, highlighting the global ramifications of using certain hair products.
Woman’s hair treatment leads to kidney damage
Previous Research Findings
In 2022, a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) revealed a potential link between chemical hair-straightening products and an increased risk of uterine cancer among women. The presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in these products raised concerns about their broader health implications.
The case of kidney damage following a hair salon visit underscores the need for heightened awareness regarding the potential health risks associated with certain hair treatments. As medical professionals continue to investigate the safety of hair products, consumers are urged to exercise caution and prioritize their health when considering salon procedures. Efforts to regulate and phase out harmful ingredients in hair formulations are crucial in safeguarding public health and preventing adverse outcomes associated with cosmetic practices.
