Before Hair Smoothing: Ask About the Product and Salon Precautions

Ask which product the salon plans to use before booking a smoothing service. Request its ingredient list and keep the product name with the appointment details. That gives you something specific to discuss with the stylist.

Read the product details before the appointment

FDA¹ identifies formaldehyde, formalin and methylene glycol as ingredient names that indicate formaldehyde is present or will be released. It also suggests asking to review the product’s Safety Data Sheet.¹

Ask the stylist to show you the information for the exact product they will apply. If the name changes between the consultation and appointment, request the new product’s details too. You can take the information away before deciding whether to book.

Discuss the heated step and salon precautions

Heating a product that contains formaldehyde can release the gas into the salon air. Poor ventilation creates an inhalation risk for clients, stylists and others present.¹

FDA¹ suggests asking about the stylist’s product training, the manufacturer’s directions, ventilation and air testing. It also recommends asking whether an alternative product avoids releasing formaldehyde when heated.¹

Have that conversation before sitting down for application. Ask who will answer further product questions and what happens if you decide not to continue. And confirm that the information you reviewed matches the service you are booking.

Keep the service out of a home experiment

FDA¹ discourages applying these smoothing products yourself at home and advises using a licensed hair professional trained in precautions. If formaldehyde-sensitive, you should not use this type of product.¹

Tell the stylist about previous reactions and ask your healthcare professional about concerns you have before treatment. Bring the product information to that discussion rather than relying on the salon service name.

Act on a reaction

Reported formaldehyde reactions include eye irritation, cough, wheezing, headaches and rashes. FDA¹ advises stopping use of the product and reporting symptoms to your healthcare provider. Reactions can also be reported through FDA MedWatch.¹

Keep the product name and appointment date if you need to discuss a reaction afterward. Ask the salon for the product details if you did not receive them during the consultation.

Hair, Everywhere includes a gentle-styling checklist and visit script. Use them to organize styling choices and the questions you bring to a healthcare appointment. Explore the hair playbook.