Urgent Health Alert: France’s ANSES Warns of Serious Risks Linked to Hair Smoothing Products Containing Glyoxylic Acid

The French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), in partnership with the General Directorate for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) and the General Directorate for Health (DGS), has issued a critical warning concerning the use of hair smoothing products that contain glyoxylic acid. This follows four alarming cases of acute renal failure reported since the beginning of the year.

Key Details of the Alert:

• Health Risks Identified: Glyoxylic acid, a common ingredient in some hair smoothing treatments like the “Brazilian blowout,” has been linked to four cases of acute renal failure.
• Product Focus: The alert specifically targets hair smoothing products, including Brazilian blowout treatments, that use glyoxylic acid for its straightening properties.
• ANSES’s Investigation: ANSES has launched an in-depth study to examine the renal toxicity of glyoxylic acid when applied to hair. The results of this review could lead to stricter European regulations governing its use in cosmetics.
• Precautionary Measures: Until ANSES completes its investigation, the DGCCRF and DGS strongly advise against the use of hair smoothing products containing glyoxylic acid due to the serious health risks.
• Symptoms to Watch For: Symptoms of acute renal failure include severe abdominal or back pain, nausea, and vomiting, typically occurring a few hours after exposure to glyoxylic acid. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

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