Hair care products containing glyoxylic acid may negatively affect kidney function. (Photo: Voyagerix via Getty Images)
Formaldehyde-free hair straighteners are marketed as a safer alternative to traditional formulations, but recent clinical observations call their safety into question.
Formaldehyde and its liquid forms, formalin and methylene glycol, are added to styling products to preserve hair texture and extend the shelf life of the products.
In recent years, a number of countries have restricted the use of these compounds in cosmetics due to proven health risks.
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When heat treated, formaldehyde is converted into a gaseous state, causing irritation of the mucous membranes, coughing and skin reactions. Long-term exposure is associated with the risk of developing asthma, reproductive disorders and cancer.
Despite marketing claims about the safety of formaldehyde-free alternatives, a study in the journal Clinical Toxicology on August 28 found risks of kidney damage from glyoxylic acid, a key component of such products.
The report describes 13 cases of patients at the Sourasky Medical Center (Tel Aviv) who presented with symptoms of poisoning after salon procedures. The deterioration of the condition was observed 2–72 hours after the sessions.
“Before the official study, our toxicology service had already recorded similar complaints,” the authors noted. “A check of the salons revealed the use of products containing glyoxylic acid.”
Patients aged 15–53 years developed vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin rashes. Acute kidney injury with increased creatinine, oliguria, and crystalluria were diagnosed in 12 patients.
The only patient without nephrological complications received emergency therapy with vitamins B1 and B6 within 8 hours of the procedure, which presumably neutralized the toxic effects.
The experts also noted insufficient ventilation in the inspected salons. The hospitalization period was 1-10 days. No patient required hemodialysis, no fatalities were registered.
The study has limitations: small sample size, lack of kidney biopsies, and retrospective analysis of cases from 2021–2025. However, isolated cases of nephrotoxicity associated with glyoxylic acid have been previously described.
“These findings indicate an underestimated risk of kidney damage from such cosmetics,” the scientists concluded. “Timely diagnosis and administration of B vitamins may mitigate the consequences. Further research and regulatory measures are required.”
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The FDA had planned to ban formaldehyde in styling products by April 2024, but the decision has been repeatedly delayed. The agency now recommends avoiding products containing the ingredient.
Experts are calling for a ban on glyoxylic acid in cosmetics, but regulatory steps in this direction have not yet been taken.
Disclaimer
The material is for informational purposes only and does not replace specialist consultation.
Nicoletta Lanese. Social Media. Health Editor.
Nicoletta Lanez is Live Science's medical editor and former staff writer and news editor. She holds a certificate in science communication from the University of California, and degrees in neuroscience and dance from the University of Florida. Her work has appeared in The Scientist, Science News, Mercury News, and elsewhere. Based in New York City, Lanez continues to practice contemporary dance and participates in theater projects.
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