H.R. 7685: Healthy Hair Act

This bill, known as the Healthy Hair Act, aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to take significant steps regarding hair straightening and smoothing products that contain formaldehyde or substances that release formaldehyde. Here’s a breakdown of the key components of the bill:

Adulteration of Hair Products

The bill specifies that any hair straightening or smoothing product that contains formaldehyde or any formaldehyde-releasing substances will be classified as adulterated. This means that such products are considered unsafe for consumption or use in interstate commerce.

Definition of Hair Products

It defines "hair straightening or hair smoothing products" as those intended to straighten, relax, smooth, or alter the texture of hair. This definition encompasses a range of products, including keratin treatments.

Effective Date

The changes introduced by this bill would take effect 180 days after it is enacted, applying to products distributed or sold after this period.

Study on Health Impacts

The bill mandates a study on the health impacts of exposure to hair straightening and smoothing products containing formaldehyde or similar chemical agents. The study will be conducted by the Commissioner of Food and Drugs in consultation with the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The focus will include:

• The short-term and long-term health effects on salon workers.
• The potential associations between exposure to these products and health issues such as cancer, respiratory problems, and endocrine disruption.

Reports to Congress

The findings from the aforementioned study will be compiled into reports submitted to Congress. This includes:

• An initial report within one year of the bill's enactment, detailing the study findings.
• A final report not later than 26 months after enactment, which will also include recommendations for regulatory actions to limit health impacts.

Timing of Reports

The initial report will have to be completed within one year, whereas the final report is due within two years and two months post-enactment.

Relevant Companies

• SHC: A company involved in the production of hair care products which might be directly affected by regulations regarding formaldehyde.
• PG: Procter & Gamble, a major player in the personal care market, may need to reformulate products to comply with the new regulations.
• CL: Colgate-Palmolive offers hair care products and may face impacts from restrictions on formaldehyde-containing items.