Israeli Health Ministry Raids Hair Straightening Chain Over Suspected Carcinogenic Chemicals

The Israeli Ministry of Health conducted a large-scale enforcement operation on Thursday across nine branches of the hair straightening chain "Center of Straightening" following reports of formaldehyde use in EMMA FLEX hair straightening products. Formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen, raising serious health concerns. The inspections took place in branches located in Netanya, Holon, Tel Aviv, Yehud, Kfar Saba, Petah Tikva, Rehovot, Rishon Lezion, and Ramla.

During the raids, health inspectors seized products that lacked proper labeling as required by law. Some products had no identifying labels, others were labeled only in foreign languages, and some lacked information about their origin, manufacturer, importer, or composition. These products were removed from the salons, and additional samples were taken for laboratory testing to verify their composition and compliance with legal standards.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that the absence of proper labeling raises significant concerns about product safety, legality, and potential harmful ingredients. They warned the public against purchasing hair straightening products from unauthorized or unknown sources and against using products not approved or labeled according to regulations.

The investigation is ongoing in cooperation with local authorities and enforcement agencies. The Ministry pledged to take all necessary measures to protect public health and will provide updates as needed. They also issued recommendations urging consumers to only undergo hair straightening treatments at licensed salons, ensure products used are legally marketed and registered in the Ministry’s cosmetics database, and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as reduced urine output, swelling, nausea, extreme fatigue, abdominal or back pain, shortness of breath, confusion, or other health deteriorations occur after treatment. Patients are advised to inform medical staff about the hair straightening treatment and product details when seeking care.