Following up on a warning issued for "Brazilian Blowout" hair-straightening solution, Health Canada has found unacceptable levels of formaldehyde in 10 similar products.

In Canada, formaldehyde may be used as a preservative in cosmetics at a maximum level of 0.2 per cent. A stop sale has been ordered for the following products for exceeding the allowable limit:

  • Brazilian Keratin Treatment by Marcia Teixeira (1.8 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Advanced Brazilian Keratin Treatment by Marcia Teixeira (1.7 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Chocolate Extreme De-Frizzing Treatment by Marcia Teixeira (1.6 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy by Coppola (1.8 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Global Keratin Taming System Strawberry by Global Keratin (3 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Global Keratin Taming System with Juvexin Strawberry Resistant by Global Keratin (4.4 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Global Keratin Taming System with Juvexin Strawberry Light Wave by Global Keratin (1.4 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Pro-Collagen RX Keratin Treatment (2.8 per cent formaldehyde)
  • IStraight Keratin (Advanced Keratin Treatment) by IBS Beauty (2.3 per cent formaldehyde)
  • Brazilian Thermal Reconstruction by Cadiveu (7 per cent formaldehyde)

The products are available at salons across Canada, but are not generally sold directly to consumers.

Stylists are being advised to cease using them immediately. Health Canada says it's the responsibility of manufacturers, importers, distributors and sellers to ensure their products comply with the Food and Drugs Act.

Health Canada says it has received complaints of breathing difficulties, burning in the eyes, nose and throat and one report of hair loss associated with the use of hair straightening products.

The agency says consumers who used the products but have not experienced any reaction likely have no cause for concern. Those who have experienced adverse reactions are advised to seek medical attention.

Formaldehyde is an irritant and sensitizer and is linked to cancer in humans when inhaled chronically over a long period of time.

Anyone who has experienced a bad reaction to hair smoothing products can report it on the Health Canada website.