The wide use of professional-use hair smoothing products containing keratin has sparked varying concerns regarding ingredients and questions around potential safety issues. In response to this industry-wide issue and to help educate and inform the industry, the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) has released a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document, which is the industry's most current, comprehensive, and objective report on the keratin smoothing product category. In addition to the FAQs, PBA formally requested that the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) take up a re-examination of the use of formaldehyde-releasers in cosmetics, and initiate a formal examination of methylene glycol in personal care and beauty products.

The PBA would like to reiterate the need for manufacturers and distributors of these products to provide stylists and other industry professionals with up-to-date information, training, and education about how to safely apply and handle keratin products.

Some of the FAQs Addressed in the Report Include:

• The presence of formaldehyde in professional-use keratin smoothing systems. Government agencies responsible for regulating salon safety.
• What authority the FDA has over personal care products.
• How OSHA regulates formaldehyde in the workplace. Review of the State of Oregon's OSHA examination of formaldehyde levels in salons they tested.
• Advice on how to report adverse experiences related to cosmetic and beauty products.

To review the full FAQ, Professional Keratin Hair Smoothing Products, please visit: www.probeauty.org/keratin. This document is intended only to provide interested parties with helpful information on professional smoothing services only. It is not a substitute for comprehensive training requirements, or to prescribe rules or standards, or to define or create legal rights or obligations. PBA advises confirming with product manufacturers and distributors regarding individual products.

Professional Beauty Association Release FAQs on Keratin Hair Smoothing Products