As a relatively new hair treatment, Brazilian Blowout boasts the ability to straighten hair, while simultaneously creating a protective and nutrient rich barrier around it. However, critics of the revolutionary hair treatment product have revealed a potentially dangerous and undisclosed mechanism of action. When introduced to direct heat, the product releases formaldehyde gas. Inhalation of these gases may result in severe complications. Due to the adverse effects of breathing in such a chemical, the manufacturer has been forced to settle a claim with the state of California.
Through the use of a Brazilian Super Nutrient Complex and a proprietary polymer system, Brazilian Blowout actually improves the condition of hair by creating a protective protein layer around the hair shaft to eliminate frizz and smooth the cuticle. Subsequently, salons across the United States are boasting that Brazilian Blowout treatment is the next generation of salon care techniques.
Unfortunately, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted an investigation which revealed that Brazilian Blowout contains methylene glycol, a liquid variation of formaldehyde, which, when introduced to a heat source such as a blow dryer or hot iron, releases formaldehyde. Methylene glycol is a deleterious substance, which at the levels present in this product, may harm users under the conditions of use prescribed in the labeling. FDA analysis of approximately 50 mg samples of Brazilian Blowout confirmed the presence of methylene glycol. Subsequently, methylene glycol levels ranged from 8.7 to 10.4 percent.
According to a recent Brazilian Blowout lawsuit, a North Hollywood-based company advertised their hair products as “formaldehyde free.” However, a 2010 lawsuit filed by the state of California accused GIB of using products that emitted significant levels of formaldehyde gas during testing. Following an intensive investigation, the Brazilian Blowout maker was forced to settle claims with the state.
Under terms of the settlement, the products have to say on labels that the solutions “will expose you to formaldehyde gas, a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer.” Such a warning will prove beneficial in the protection of hairstylists that come into contact with the product on a daily basis. According to Lynda Gledhill, a spokeswoman for the attorney general’s office, “this is a consumer product safety issue. People need to be able to trust the products that they use.”
Representative from GIB called the settlement “a fair and equitable resolution.” Subsequently, the requested label change has already been in place for months.
Do I Have a Brazilian Blowout Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Brazilian Blowout lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has been injured by inhaling formaldehyde gas from Brazilian Blowout products, you may be entitled to financial compensation. For a free case review, please click the link below or call toll free 24 hrs/day 1-800-773-0849.