Chemicals in keratin are harmful
Keratin itself is a natural protein that is beneficial to the hair, helping to beautify the hair. However, overusing keratin to restore and beautify the hair can cause many harmful effects to both the hair and overall health. The harmful effects mainly come from the chemicals included in the product. Especially formaldehyde and the use of high temperatures during the process.
Formaldehyde: Many keratin products, especially hair straightening products, contain formaldehyde or a substance that releases formaldehyde when heated. Formaldehyde is a substance classified as a carcinogen by the World Health Organization.
Other chemicals: In addition to formaldehyde, although rare, some specialty keratin products may contain other harsh chemicals that, if not strictly quality controlled, can also be harmful to the hair and scalp. These include:
- Sulfate : Often found in shampoos, although not as directly harmful as formaldehyde, sulfate is a strong detergent that can strip away the natural oils on hair and scalp, causing hair to become dry, lose moisture and can quickly wash away the keratin coating.
- Paraben : A preservative found in many products. Some studies have shown a link between parabens and hormonal disruption, especially estrogen.
- Silicones : These are substances that instantly give hair a smooth feel by creating a protective layer on the outside. However, silicones are difficult to wash off and can accumulate on the hair and scalp, clogging hair follicles, making hair heavy and flat. In the long run, they can hinder the absorption of nutrients, making hair dry and brittle.
- Synthetic fragrances : May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Possible side effects of overusing keratin to restore and beautify hair
Heat Damage : Keratin helps to temporarily smooth and strengthen hair. However, overuse or incorrect application can cause hair to become dry, brittle, thin and more prone to breakage in the long run. Especially in the process of performing keratin therapy, which often involves using high temperatures such as hair straighteners to lock the keratin into the hair, the hair is more susceptible to damage.
In addition, overusing keratin, using it too often can cause this substance to accumulate on the hair, making the hair stiff and losing its natural look.
For people with color-treated hair, the high-heat keratin treatment can cause the color to fade, especially if done immediately after coloring.
Scalp irritation : Some chemicals in keratin products, especially formaldehyde, can cause itching, burning, redness, and even burning or blistering of the scalp.
Even "formaldehyde-free" keratin products can cause allergic reactions or irritation in some people due to other ingredients in the product. This can cause itching, redness, rashes, scalp pimples...
In very rare cases and due to use of poor quality products or overuse of oral keratin supplements/dietary supplements, it can lead to persistent difficulty breathing and respiratory failure.
Overall health effects: This is the biggest concern, primarily related to formaldehyde. Inhaling formaldehyde vapors released during the procedure can cause:
Cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing.
Itching, burning nose and throat.
For people with frequent exposure (hairdressers) long term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory problems such as asthma and lung diseases.
Eye irritation from chemical fumes can cause itching, burning, and watery eyes.
Some people may experience mood changes when exposed to formaldehyde.
Prolonged and frequent exposure to formaldehyde has been shown to be a cancer risk.
Overuse of oral keratin supplements can cause the body to accumulate too much protein, leading to weight gain, increased risk of reduced kidney function, and joint pain.
Important notes to minimize harm
To minimize these harmful effects, it is important to note:
- Choose a reputable salon and products: If you do keratin therapy at a salon, choose a place with experience. At the same time, choose and use products with clear origins, certified safe and formaldehyde-free.
- Health Notice: If you are pregnant, nursing, or have respiratory problems or sensitive scalp, consult your doctor or specialist before using keratin therapy.
- Keratin treatment should not be done too often. Depending on the condition of your hair, it should not be done more than 2-3 times a year.
- Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain the keratin layer on your hair.
- A balanced diet, supplemented with enough protein, vitamins and minerals for healthy hair from the inside.
- To prevent keratin in hair from breaking down, it is necessary to limit negative impacts:
+ Minimize the use of hair dryers, irons, and curling irons. If necessary, always use a heat protection product beforehand.
+ Reduce the frequency of curling, straightening, and dyeing your hair. If you do, choose quality products and take good care of your hair afterward.
+ Protect hair from the environment: Wear a hat, cover hair when exposed to the sun or polluted, dusty environments.
+ Use a wide-toothed comb and brush gently when hair is dry or slightly damp to avoid breakage.
Source: https://baolaocai.vn/canh-bao-tac-hai-khi-lam-dung-keratin-phuc-hoi-lam-dep-toc-post648696.html
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