Women have been using different hair care and styling products for many years. Many women love to keep their hair straight and use different hair straightening products available in the market.

But have you ever thought that these hair straightening products could be linked with uterine cancer?.

What are Hair Straightening Products?

A variety of hair straightening products are available in the market, such as hair straightening serums, shampoos, conditioners, and hair straightening irons. Hair straighteners are commonly used to straighten hair, relax curls, and reduce frizz.

However, many hair straightening products contain chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which can be harmful to your health.

Formaldehyde in Hair Straightening Products

Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in various industries, including hair care products. Formaldehyde is used in many hair straightening products because of its properties to bond with keratin in the hair.

As the name suggests, it is a formaldehyde-based hair straightening treatment that is popularly known as a “Brazilian Blowout.”.

Brazilian Blowout is known to cause health problems, and the FDA has not approved it. It is a product that women should avoid at all costs and look for alternatives that are safer and free from hazardous chemicals.

Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer is cancer that starts in the endometrium or lining of the uterus. It occurs when cells in the uterus grow and divide without control, causing a tumor. Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women.

Its early symptoms include vaginal bleeding or discharge and pelvic pain.

The Connection between Hair Straightening Products and Uterine Cancer

Research suggests that there may be a link between hair straightening products and uterine cancer.

Formaldehyde, a common ingredient used in hair straightening treatments, is a carcinogen and has been classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). It has been found in high levels in hair salons where the Brazilian Blowout is performed.

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer in 2019 found that women who used hair straightening products were at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, particularly those who used hair dye and hair straighteners.

The study found a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer among women who used these products every 8 weeks or more. The study also found a higher risk of developing uterine cancer among women who used hair straightening products.

The Bottom Line

Hair straightening products, particularly Brazilian Blowout, contain formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen and can lead to various types of cancers such as breast cancer and uterine cancer.

Women who regularly use hair straightening products and hair dye may have an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. It is recommended that women avoid using these products regularly and look for safer hair straightening options that do not contain formaldehyde or other harsh chemicals.

Consult with your doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of uterine cancer or have any concerns about the use of hair straightening products.