Qualitative and quantitative analysis of formaldehyde in samples of hair straighteners and suitability of the labels

Formaldehyde is an active compound, irregularly used in hair products, that has the property of straighten and waterproofing the wires. However, it is highly toxic and can stimulate dermatological hypersensitivity and cancer. In this context it is of fundamental importance the inspection of these products that can be used in safe conditions for the consumer, without formaldehyde in concentrations higher than the allowed. Thus, the aim of this research was the qualitative and quantitative identification formaldehyde in samples of hair straighteners that was obtained by donation in the beauty salons of Araraquara-SP. In addition, the analysis of the packaging labels of the products tested were conducted, following the requirements of the national legislation - RDC 07/2015 which defines the mandatory labeling standards for cosmetic products. A qualitative analysis for formaldehyde identification is based on the formation of a purple colored complex. The quantitative analysis was performed by spectrophotometry. The qualitative and quantitative formaldehyde analysis methods were applied to 13 bottles of hair straighteners. When submitted to qualitative analysis, all samples showed formaldehyde presence. The quantitative analysis demonstrated that the samples identified as B, C, D, E, G, H, I, J and M presented formaldehyde concentration of 3.5 to 14.5%, which is above of the limit recommended by the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), of 0.2%. In the label analysis, in all samples were found irregularities.(AU)

Clinical Consideration of Contact Burn Caused by Hair Straightener

PURPOSE: Hair straightener is a common tool among various household electric appliances used for hair styling. Hair straightener has plate consists of metal or ceramic, which lead to possible burn if contacted. Main users of hair straightener are young women whereas main victims of hair straightener caused-burn are infants. Among patients visiting our burn medical center, the case of attending hospital due to contact burn by hair straightener tends to increase. METHODS: Retrospective research was conducted 72 patients with contact burn by hair straightener among patients admitted to our burn medical center from Jan 2012 to Dec 2014. Subjects were classified by age, gender, affected site and degree and treatment method. RESULTS: 72 subjects consisted of 39 infants, 9 children, adolescence and 24 adults. Affected sites were presented as hands in 31, face in 21, foot in 13, arms in 5 and legs in 2 subjects. Degree of burn was presented as deep second degrees in 67 and third degrees in 5 subjects; 70 subjects were cured through conservative treatment whereas 2 subjects had local flap. CONCLUSION: Contact burn by hair straightener can be ranged from partial to full thickness skin defect. It is important to note this kind of burn develops more frequently in infants and is preventative. Education for young women who use hair straightener is crucial. Training regarding function and design improvement of hair straightener is also essential. Uncovering the heated plate after use through a separate lock device might be great help for prevention of contact burn if developed.