Overview

• The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses) has identified four cases of acute kidney failure linked to hair products containing glyoxylic acid.
• Three individuals have recovered after treatment, while one remains hospitalized; these cases emerged after salon applications of the product.
• Glyoxylic acid can convert into calcium oxalate crystals in the bloodstream, causing renal damage.
• Authorities caution that more cases could be unreported due to the subtlety of symptoms and lack of awareness.
• The Anses, alongside other health agencies, advises against the use and sale of these products pending further investigation.