Formaldehyde Danger for Hair Stylists, Embalmers, and Others

Formaldehyde, only recently officially declared as a carcinogen, has long been considered a health risk. Formaldehyde can trigger asthma and exacerbate symptoms of chemical sensitivity, including itchy eyes, sore throats, nosebleeds, and more. Even if symptoms are not apparent, formaldehyde can still lead to long-term effects, including cancers.

A pervasive chemical, formaldehyde exposure can occur through many daily life scenarios. For instance, the chemical is used in particle board products and plywood, which is used in many furniture items; in cosmetics such as nail polish; in dry cleaning chemicals; and in mattresses and other bedding products, to name a few.

Allergic and asthmatic individuals, as well as those with multiple chemical sensitivity should definitely avoid exposure to formaldehyde-containing products as much as possible. Even individuals without reactions to the chemical should seriously consider minimizing exposure.

While formaldehyde exposure occurs seemingly anywhere and everywhere, certain professions carry with them a particular formaldehyde-exposure risk. Hair stylists and embalmers can be particularly affected by the chemical.

A case in point: ‘The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration warned in April that a hair-care product, Brazilian Blowout Acai Professional Smoothing Solution, contained unacceptable levels of formaldehyde, and salon workers have reported headaches, nosebleeds, burning eyes, vomiting and asthma attacks after using the product and other hair-straighteners,’ according to the NY Times.

Furthermore, ‘Studies of workers like embalmers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde have found increased incidences of myeloid leukemia and rare cancers of the nasal passages and upper mouth.’

However Despite Risk, Embalmers Still Embrace Preservative discusses how many funeral workers persist in using formaldehyde as the embalming fluid of choice, pointing out that other choices simply don't work as well.

While measures to protect workers from exposure have improved over time, including updated ventilation and wearing protective gear, time will tell if these safety precautions are enough to forestall the increased cancer risk these formaldehyde-handling service workers face.

Read more about formaldehyde and formaldyde-free products below:
Organic Bedding
Vanicream Skin Lotion
12 Most Dangerous Household Chemicals
VOC and Indoor Air Indoor Quality

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