Woman suffers Organ failure after using Hair cream

A woman’s health took a severe turn after regular use of hair straightening products containing glyoxylic acid led to organ failure, specifically kidney shutdown.

Reported by Mail Online, the unidentified woman began experiencing symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and back pain shortly after using products containing glyoxylic acid, commonly found in ‘Brazilian’ and ‘formaldehyde-free’ hair straightening treatments.

Despite having no prior health issues, she noted a burning sensation on her scalp whenever the chemicals were applied.

Medical experts have cautioned that glyoxylic acid and its derivatives, like glycolic acid, can permeate the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting internal organs. Upon reaching the kidneys, these chemicals may form crystals, impeding proper organ function.

The case, documented in the New England Journal of Medicine, outlined the woman’s visits to the salon for treatments in June 2020, April 2021, and July 2022. Following each session, she was diagnosed with acute kidney injury, characterized by a sudden decline in kidney function.

Hospital tests revealed a significant increase in creatinine levels, indicating impaired kidney function. Treatment likely involved intravenous fluids, dialysis, or other interventions to support kidney function.

Hailing from Tunisia, the woman had utilized a cream containing ten percent glyoxylic acid.

Medical professionals suggested that the acid’s breakdown within the kidneys led to the formation of elongated crystals, and in turn an organ failure.

Glyoxylic acid, known for its temporary hair-altering properties, is commonly used by hairdressers to transform frizzy hair into straight locks.