ANSES is warning this Thursday of the risks of acute kidney failure linked to glyoxylic acid, used in hair straightening products. It recommends a restriction or ban on this substance and advises avoiding these products while awaiting regulatory measures.
In a press release published this Thursday, January 23, 2025, the National Health Safety Agency (ANSES) calls for caution regarding the use of glyoxylic acid, a substance used in certain hair straightening products whose presence is associated with serious health risks.
Since the alert launched in October 2024 by ANSES, the Directorate General for Competition, Consumption and Fraud Repression (DGCCRF) and the Directorate General for Health (DGS) on serious adverse effects, four new cases have been reported. “Knowledge of this risk allowed doctors treating these patients to make the link between acute renal failure without apparent cause and the performance of Brazilian straightening.“, underlines ANSES.
Professionals and consumers called to be vigilant
Glyoxylic acid currently lacks any regulatory restrictions in cosmetics. While awaiting a restriction or even a ban on the use of this substance in hair care products, consumers are invited to avoid products containing this substance.
At the same time, ANSES asks manufacturers to reassess the safety of their products and improve instructions for use and emphasizes the importance of raising awareness among hairdressers, users and health professionals of the risks linked to acid. glyoxylic.
-What to do if you have symptoms?
If you experience abdominal or lower back pain, nausea or vomiting after using a straightening product, it is imperative to consult a doctor or contact a poison control center. Here are the numbers to call in an emergency: Nancy: 03 83 22 50 50; Paris: 01 40 05 48 48; Lille: 08 00 59 59 59 and other centers throughout France.
Health
