Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Two days ago, I received a keratin Brazilian blow-dry hair treatment at a salon. The smell released from the product was very strong. I asked the stylist if this was safe for breastfeeding, and she said it should be fine. I asked to see the product bottle and took a picture.
I then looked on the internet and realized that this treatment is not advised when breastfeeding. I did some further research, and I now also believe that the salon was not using a reputable product and that the reason it is not advised for breastfeeding is that during the treatment, formaldehyde is released.
I find it impossible not to breastfeed my 17-month-old son. I try to divert him, but I am unsuccessful. I am feeling extremely worried that I have done something that has put him at risk. I have washed the treatment out of my hair.
Still, it says on the website that counterfeit products exist (this bottle definitely was) and that the fake products on the market contain unsafe levels of formaldehyde and other unsafe chemicals. I have not been able to feed him, but can these harmful chemicals get into breastmilk after application to the scalp?
I should say, I feel fine, just very anxious. I did find in the salon that the smell of the product was unpleasant and made me cough, but not excessively. My son also seems fine. However, I do not want to take any more risks. I feel so stupid for not researching properly before having this done, and I want to make sure I can do everything now to mitigate the risks.
Kindly advise.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com
I read your query and understand your concern.
Yes, you are able to breastfeed, but I suggest you wait a few hours (three or more). Formaldehyde is easily metabolized by humans, and little would be absorbed by the skin.
I would recommend that you wait for hours and increase your water intake during the waiting time.
This keratin may contribute:
Eye irritation.
Coughing.
Wheezing.
Vomiting.
If you see the baby having such symptoms and signs, you should contact your pediatrician as soon as possible.
I hope this helps you.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for your reply.
But this was two days back, and I did not wait three hours before breastfeeding because I could not keep him off me. I tried, but it is very challenging. Till now, he has not had any of those symptoms. He seems fine, but I am worried about long-term effects now. I feel absolutely terrible.
I have contacted the provider of the keratin treatment, and they have confirmed that the bottle they were using in the salon is counterfeit; therefore, there could be hazardous levels of the ingredients. I noticed that it contains BHT, which is banned in many places. Could all of this have been in the breast milk that the child had been having?
And would I have inhaled unsafe levels of formaldehyde? Basically, should I go to a doctor here where I live and have my son checked? I have attached the ingredients list on the bottle, but if it is counterfeit, then I suppose there could be anything in it.
Kindly advise.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com
I can understand your worries, and I am concerned about them.
It was two days ago, always if the mother received treatment during breastfeeding there is a small amount that can pass from the mother to the baby if it is a one time incident, and the baby had no sign effect regarding that medication like the keratin side effects like eye irritation, sore throat, cough, and vomiting, then most likely there will be no long term side effect.
Because the children suddenly react to any side effect of the drug if the dose is more than the prescribed amount according to their body weight. As there is still no guideline for the long-term effect of keratin on breastfeeding mothers, I will suggest avoiding any further keratin hair treatment while breastfeeding and during pregnancy.
Most likely, the baby may not have a long-term effect; however, if you see any signs and symptoms during these days, you may consult your pediatrician for further management.
I hope this helps you.
Thank you.
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