Rare Kidney Risk Linked to Hair Straightening: UAE Doctors Issue Warning

Doctors in the UAE have underscored that standard hair-straightening procedures may sometimes lead to minor side effects such as skin irritations, while also potentially posing serious complications like kidney-related issues.

Despite this, they have emphasized that no significant cases linked to these concerns have been reported in the country.

In a recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, doctors detailed a case involving a woman who experienced kidney damage after receiving a hair-straightening treatment at a salon. Doctors highlighted the possible risks linked to keratin treatments. They urge people to stay informed about these potential dangers before deciding to undergo such procedures.

A woman developed kidney damage on three separate occasions after receiving hair-straightening treatments at a salon. Her doctors say one of the products used likely caused the organ injuries.

The 26-year-old woman visited a salon to receive the popular hair treatment in June 2020, April 2031 and July 2022. She'd had no previous health problems, but on the day of each visit, she experienced vomiting, diarrhea, fever and back pain. She reported feeling burning on her scalp during the hair treatment and developed ulcers on her head shortly afterwards.

Woman left with kidney damage, vomiting, diarrhoea and back pain after a trip to the hairdresser.Stock Adobe

Doctors noted elevated levels of creatinine in her blood, indicating kidney dysfunction. Additionally, she exhibited blood in her urine without other signs of infection. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed no blockages in her urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

Look for symptoms

Doctors pointed out that symptoms such as weakness, joint pains, skin rash, and reduced urine output should be promptly addressed and thoroughly investigated.