Israeli Health Ministry Issues Urgent Recall of LEGEND Hair Straightening Product Over Life-Threatening Risks

The Israeli Ministry of Health has issued an urgent warning against the use, sale, or distribution of the LEGEND hair straightening product following a severe health incident in Hadera. A woman was hospitalized in intensive care with acute kidney failure after receiving a hair straightening treatment at a home-based salon using this product. The Ministry's investigation revealed that the product used may be counterfeit or altered, differing in appearance from the original factory-made version distributed by Hazi Eden. Samples taken from the factory are undergoing laboratory testing.

The Ministry emphasized the serious health risks posed by unauthorized modifications to cosmetic products, such as adding glyoxylic acid or formaldehyde, which invalidate safety approvals and constitute criminal offenses. Authorities have filed a police complaint and are conducting further investigations. The recall is effective immediately until further notice.

Individuals who have recently undergone hair straightening and experience symptoms such as significantly reduced or no urine output, swelling in the face or limbs, nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue, abdominal or back pain, shortness of breath, confusion, or clouded consciousness are urged to seek immediate medical attention and provide product details.

The Ministry also warned against purchasing cosmetic products from unauthorized sources and recommended that hair straightening treatments be performed only in licensed salons. Consumers should verify product approval and labeling accuracy through the Ministry's cosmetics database before use.