We know this time of year can be a busy one. Between cooking, cleaning, traveling, and shopping, we know it is also important to look your best, too; many do this with a trip to their salon. At Silk Therapeutics, we regularly discuss the health risks of beauty products used at home or in a spa as we seek to provide advice on safe beauty (in our book, there’s no other kind.) Today we’ve invited Victoria Collotta, owner of Jaie3 salon spa beautique (Medfield, Massachusetts) to share her perspective on professional hair products.

As the owner of a salon and spa, I am extremely familiar with and concerned about the controversies that surround hair care treatments.

Recently, a graduate student in the school of public health at the University of California, Los Angeles, surveyed stylists and found that they were experiencing similar symptoms and health concerns after applying relaxers and other chemical hair straighteners for their clients. Far from mild, passing symptoms, these concerns included Asthma, Dermatitis, hair loss, uterine fibroids, and miscarriage.

Similarly, I remember much speculation about the health effects of the popular hair “Brazilian Blowout” hair treatment. Clients and stylists alike experienced reactions to the Brazilian Blowout, and across the industry, stylists refused to offer it—a very rare occurrence in the salon business—out of concern for the impact of repeat exposure.

Eventually, the industry seemed to find agreement on the potential risks of this treatment, which many attributed to the ingredient formaldehyde. I’ve since learned that formaldehyde is a chemical said to be linked to cancer. Many individuals have experienced adverse effects such as watery or burning sensations in the eyes, nose and throat; coughing, wheezing, nausea, and skin irritation.

Since that time, the new Keratin Straighten treatment was launched for clients looking for that sleek, smooth hair that’s so popular right now. At Jaie3, we found the number of Brazilian blowouts dramatically decreased because of this healthier alternative. Both my stylists and clientele are happy with the Keratin treatment.

It has been relieving to know that people are becoming more aware of safety and health in choosing beauty products. Through my own personal experience in beauty care, and in partnering with Silk Therapeutics, I have learned that product efficacy and safe beauty choices can go hand in hand, and I hope that we can continue to spread this message.

Be a safe beauty!

Victoria