Do hair care professionals need to be ventilation engineers, chemists and lawyers as well?
New products, new research and new legislation, such as the EC Cosmetics Regulation affecting eyelash tinting, all mean new headaches for professionals. They are trying to run their businesses and offer creative services to clients. The EC Cosmetics Regulation eyelash tinting provisions have brought about significant changes.
Two recent stories reinforce the challenges for the professional. They must comply with these new rules regarding EC Cosmetics Regulation eyelash tinting.
Hair straightening
The first concerns the increasing popularity of hair straightening and smoothing processes. For example, the much-publicised Brazilian Blowout products. First, an American manufacturer was fined for not identifying that their straightening products contained formaldehyde. Exposure to formaldehyde is associated with certain types of cancer. The chemical can only be used in very diluted forms.
Then a study in an American scientific journal identified dangers to the health not just of clients, but of hair and beauty professionals as well, when they use straightening products. Studies were carried out on the air quality in salons using the products. Concentrations of formaldehyde were found that were well above safe levels. This caused watery eyes, breathing difficulties and nose bleeds in hair workers. The study called for proper engineering controls like exhaust ventilation to be installed in salons to overcome the problem.
When did the new rules come in?
The other story comes courtesy of Mike Patey at the Hairdressing and Beauty Supplies Association. He recently issued a note to members alerting them to a problem in the new EC Cosmetics Regulation. Specifically, this new regulation bans oxidative colouring for eyelash tinting, causing concern in the industry. The new rules, which came into force on 11th July, exclude the use of oxidative colouring products for colouring or tinting eyelashes. This regulation on eyelash tinting was quickly seen as a problem for the industry. The EC technical authorities have rushed out a draft amendment which would allow the use of oxidative hair dye and hydrogen peroxide. These products would be used at specific concentrations for the professional colouring of eyelashes. It’s hoped this would come into force after a consultation period which ends in October.
As if it wasn’t challenging enough to carry on providing a great service to clients these days. At this rate it looks like we may also have to become a combination of ventilation engineers, chemists, and legal experts to keep up with EC Cosmetics Regulation on eyelash tinting.
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Q: Why is formaldehyde used in hair straightening products?
A: It helps lock hair into a smooth shape, but must be used at very low concentrations due to health risks.
Q: What are the symptoms of overexposure to formaldehyde?
A: Watery eyes, coughing, breathing difficulties, nosebleeds and long-term health risks.
Q: Do salons legally need ventilation systems?
A: In many regions, proper ventilation is strongly recommended or required when using chemical treatments.
Q: Are eyelash tints legal in the EU?
A: The new EC Cosmetics Regulation initially banned oxidative tinting, but an amendment is being drafted to allow safe use in the context of eyelash tinting.
