Determination of formol in samples of hair-straightening products

Abstract

The objective of the present work was to determine the contents of formol (formaldehyde) in hair-straightening products used in various beauty salons. Formol can cause damages to hair, it is also toxic and carcinogenic in the medium term. Despite being banned by the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) it is frequently utilized, being disguised with flavorings, and its presence is not noted on product labels. Therefore, the study was intended to evaluate levels of formol in samples taken in the city of Rolandia (Paraná State, Brazil), where the surveillance does not always take place. The determined values ranged from 5.37 to 10.65 %.

Keywords

• Formol (formaldehyde)
• Hair straightening