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Formaldehyde is a potent chemical that can cause various health issues, including respiratory irritation, eye irritation, and skin irritation. As a result, many countries have banned or restricted the use of formaldehyde in cosmetic and personal care products. However, some hair care companies still use formaldehyde in their products, albeit in small amounts, by hiding it under different chemical names. In this blog post, we'll discuss the different chemical names of formaldehyde used by hair care companies to hide the real name.

1. Formalin
Formalin is one of the most common alternative names used for formaldehyde. It is a solution of formaldehyde gas in water and can release formaldehyde when it comes into contact with heat, such as during hair straightening treatments.

2. Methanal
Methanal is another name for formaldehyde and is used in various products, including hair care products. Like formalin, it can release formaldehyde when exposed to heat.

3. Methylene glycol
Methylene glycol is a formaldehyde-based compound that is used in hair straightening treatments. It releases formaldehyde when it is heated, and its use is regulated in many countries.

4. Methylene oxide
Methylene oxide is another alternative name for formaldehyde and is used in various products, including hair care products. It can release formaldehyde when exposed to heat, making it a potential health hazard.

5. Paraformaldehyde
Paraformaldehyde is a solid polymer of formaldehyde that can release formaldehyde gas when heated. It is sometimes used in hair care products, particularly in hair straightening treatments.

6. Formaldehyde-releasing agents
Some hair care companies use other chemicals that release formaldehyde when they come into contact with water, such as DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15. These chemicals are not formaldehyde themselves, but they can release formaldehyde when used in hair care products.

The Bottom Line
While formaldehyde is a potent chemical that can cause various health issues, it is sometimes used in hair care products, particularly in hair straightening treatments. However, hair care companies may hide formaldehyde under different chemical names, making it difficult for consumers to identify it. By being aware of the different chemical names of formaldehyde, consumers can make more informed decisions about the products they use and minimize their exposure to this potentially harmful chemical.