Safely smoothing children's hair.. Alternatives to chemical straightening

Why is it preferred to avoid chemical straightening sessions?

The danger is not associated with the terms "protein" or "keratin" alone, but rather with the composition of the product and the method of its use, including chemicals, high heat, and the possibility of contact with the scalp or inhaling fumes.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that some hair smoothing products contain formaldehyde or substances that release it when heated, such as formalin and methylene glycol. Exposure to it can lead to irritation of the eyes, nose, and respiratory system, and coughing. Formaldehyde is also classified as a human carcinogen, with the level of risk varying according to the amount, duration, and frequency of exposure.

As for traditional chemical straightening creams, they work by changing the structure of the hair shaft and may cause chemical burns if they come into contact with the scalp. The phrase "suitable for children" does not necessarily mean that the product is safe, as these products require caution regarding their ingredients and method of use.

Thermal styling tools pose an additional risk; irons and hot combs may cause skin burns and hair damage, so it is preferred to avoid them for children, especially those who cannot sit still for the duration of styling.

Health risks that require attention

Some hair straightening products have raised health concerns due to their formaldehyde content, even though tests have detected the substance in products marketed as natural, organic, or free of it, which highlights the importance of verifying ingredients and not relying on marketing phrases alone.

The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES) has also warned against glyoxylic acid used in some straightening products, after suggesting a strong link between it and cases of acute kidney injury associated with the use of these products.

Regarding cancer, a study published by the US National Institutes of Health in 2022 observed a link between the frequent use of hair straightening products and an increased risk of uterine cancer in adult women. Researchers estimated the cumulative risk of developing the disease by age 70 at about 1.64% for women who did not use these products, compared to 4.05% for those who used them more than four times during the year prior to the study.

Another study observed a link between frequent use of chemical straightening and an increased risk of breast cancer. However, these results do not mean that a single exposure inevitably leads to cancer, and the studies that addressed these risks were conducted on adult women, and their results should not be directly generalized to children.

A daily routine for smoother hair

Children's hair styling can be made easier and tangling and dryness reduced through simple steps that take into account the hair type, the child's age, and the condition of the scalp.

1. Washing hair as needed

Not all children need to wash their hair at the same frequency. Dry and curly hair may benefit from washing every 7 to 10 days, while oily hair or hair that is exposed to frequent sweating and dirt may need more frequent washing. It is preferred to choose a gentle shampoo suitable for the child's age and hair type.

2. Using conditioner

Conditioner helps reduce friction between hair strands, which makes detangling easier and limits breakage. It is used according to the package instructions, focusing on the lengths and ends of the hair and rinsing it well.

3. Using a leave-in conditioner

A leave-in conditioner product may help in moisturizing the strands and making them easier to comb. A product suitable for the child's age should be chosen, using a small amount and avoiding the overuse of multiple products.

4. Using oils in moderation

A small amount of oil can help improve hair texture and reduce friction. Coconut oil is one of the options addressed by hair care research, as a study on hair fibers indicates its ability to reduce protein loss from the hair when used before or after washing. However, clinical evidence of its benefits for all children remains limited.

5. Detangling without pulling

Curly hair is moistened with water and conditioner, then divided into small sections, and knots are untangled with fingers or a wide-toothed comb, starting from the ends up to the roots. This method helps reduce pulling and breakage, rather than trying to force the comb through.

6. Drying hair gently

It is preferred to absorb water by pressing gently using a soft towel or a cotton cloth, rather than rubbing the hair violently. It is also advised to reduce the use of hot hair dryers and irons, and to rely on natural drying whenever practical.

7. Protecting hair during sleep

Loose braids and loose hairstyles may help reduce tangling and friction during sleep. A satin or silk pillowcase can be tried if it is comfortable for the child, while avoiding any hairstyle that causes pain or constant pulling on the scalp.

8. Trimming split ends

Trimming damaged ends when needed helps improve the appearance of the hair, makes it easier to style, and reduces the likelihood of tangled strands catching on each other. The timing of the trim is determined according to the condition of the hair, not according to a fixed schedule for all children.

Are homemade masks useful?

Some families use homemade recipes based on coconut oil or avocado and yogurt, or aloe vera gel and almond oil, or olive oil and honey, with the aim of improving hair texture and giving it a shinier appearance.

However, describing these mixtures as natural does not guarantee they are free from irritation or allergies, and scientific evidence for the effectiveness of most of them in children is limited. Therefore, it is preferred not to consider them a necessary treatment, and to choose simple care products suitable for the child's age when needed.

If homemade ingredients are used, it is best to avoid materials that cause a known allergy to the child, and not to apply the mixtures to an irritated or injured scalp, while washing the hair well after use.

Mistakes that increase hair dryness and breakage

Habits that may harm children's hair include combing it violently, detangling it while it is very dry, rubbing it with a towel, excessive use of heat, and tying it tightly using tight bands or those with metal parts.

Changing these habits may be more beneficial than adding new products to the care routine.

A child's hair is beautiful by nature

Healthy hair does not require being straight or completely free of waves and curls. The goal of care is to maintain its moisture and reduce its tangling and breakage, making styling easier and more comfortable for the child.

It is also important to promote children's acceptance of their natural hair shape, and to avoid making them feel that curls, thickness, or waves are flaws that need to be fixed. Good care does not mean changing the nature of the hair, but helping it appear healthier while maintaining its natural characteristics.