Israeli Woman Hospitalized in ICU After Hair Straightening Sparks Health Warning

A woman in Hadera was admitted to intensive care with severe kidney failure after undergoing a hair straightening treatment at a home-based salon. The Israeli Ministry of Health has issued an urgent warning against the use, marketing, or distribution of the hair straightening product LEGEND until further notice. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, including a police complaint and an inspection of the manufacturing facility listed on the product label. Preliminary findings suggest the product used may differ in appearance from the factory-made version, but laboratory results are still pending to determine the exact cause of the woman’s condition.

This case adds to previous reports of health complications linked to hair straightening treatments, which remain popular in Israel despite known risks. Experts caution that unapproved products or those altered with substances like glyoxylic acid or formaldehyde can cause serious health damage. The Ministry of Health advises anyone who recently had hair straightening and experiences symptoms such as reduced urine output, facial or limb swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal or back pain, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, or confusion to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers about the treatment.

The ongoing criminal investigation is also examining the product’s supply chain and how it reached the salon. The Ministry’s final conclusions will depend on the laboratory analysis and further inquiry into the product’s role in the woman’s health deterioration.