26 years old, suffering from severe kidney damage due to keratin hair straightening treatment. Experts reveal what happened. (Image: iStock)
In a shocking incident, the New England Journal of Medicine reports that a 26-year-old woman suffered severe kidney damage after undergoing keratin hair straightening treatment. Since the 1890s, people have been straightening their hair in pursuit of silky smooth hair. But a recent case study has revealed potentially dangerous side effects of modern keratin treatments that extend far beyond frizzy hair.
The woman had no previous health problems. She experienced symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and back pain after three salon visits between 2020 and 2022. A medical examination revealed elevated creatinine levels in his blood and blood in his urine, indicating kidney failure. Doctors concluded that the woman had repeatedly experienced acute kidney injury due to oxalate nephropathy. Oxalate nephropathy is a rare condition in which kidney function is impaired due to the accumulation of calcium oxalate crystals in the renal tubules. Who is the culprit? It’s a chemical called glyoxylic acid, often used in exfoliating treatments. This acid, which replaces formaldehyde in many “formaldehyde-free” products, can penetrate the skin and reach the kidneys, causing damage as it breaks down.
Times Now Digital spoke to Dr PS Vali, Principal and Senior Consultant Nephrologist, AINU, Dilsukhnagar, Hyderabad, about the impact of keratin hair treatments. He said, “A study published in the American Journal of Nephrology documented 26 patients in Israel who experienced acute kidney injury after using hair straightening products. Seven of these patients… “Keratin treatments can make hair smoother and shinier, but new evidence shows that 6 people had kidney biopsies and six showed calcium oxalate deposits in their kidney filters.” This suggests that keratin treatments may have a significant cost to kidney health. ”
She added: “These alarming case studies and accompanying research reveal the hidden risks of routine cosmetic procedures. Smooth, manageable hair is desirable, but the risks and cosmetic The benefits must be weighed. With growing evidence linking hair straightening chemicals to major health risks, consumers and regulators are calling for safer options and increased oversight of the cosmetics industry. We must demand it. Embracing our own natural appearance and natural charm, rather than relying on artificial enhancements, is often the most effective beauty treatment.”
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