November 22, 2010

Straightening Your Hair for the Winter? Brazilian Blow Out?

I found this article on Essence.com and thought it would be a good thing to share, especially since a lot of naturals seek to straighten their hair during the winter.  Anytime salons are requiring a mask be worn during the procedure, I'd say that's a reason to throw up a red flag! 

The 'Brazilian Blowout' Causes Controversy
Photo:  Essence.com

“If you like to rock smooth, swingy strands, then you're probably familiar with the latest craze in hair-straightening: The Brazilian Blowout. This hot new treatment smooths kinks and frizz with a solution containing protein-rich keratin. However, according to an intriguing piece in The New York Times, an occupational health agency in Oregon found significant levels of formaldehyde in the Brazilian Blowout solution last month--an ingredient that's extremely dangerous if present in high levels. The agency conducted tests when several stylists issued complaints about "nosebleeds, breathing problems and eye irritation" after applying the Brazilian Blowout treatment.

In response to the recent findings, salons like
Sally Hershberger in L.A. and New York and Manhattan's John Barrett Salon have banned the Brazilian Blowout. Other salons can't afford to lose such a profit-making treatment, so they adjust, offering industrial-strength respirators to stylists and clients, or administering the treatment oudoors on patios and terraces. Many other salons believe the formaldehyde scare is an overreaction. "I say, you put Botox in your face, lead in your lipstick, and you smoke," said Neil Weisberg, co-owner of the Neil George salon, in an interview with The New York Times. "Pick your poison."

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