Health Authorities Warn Against Brazilian Hair Straightening Products

Products containing glyoxylic acid linked to acute kidney failure, prompting a national health alert.

The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses) has identified four cases of acute kidney failure linked to hair products containing glyoxylic acid.
Three individuals have recovered after treatment, while one remains hospitalized; these cases emerged after salon applications of the product.
Glyoxylic acid can convert into calcium oxalate crystals in the bloodstream, causing renal damage.
Authorities caution that more cases could be unreported due to the subtlety of symptoms and lack of awareness.
The Anses, alongside other health agencies, advises against the use and sale of these products pending further investigation.