When Beauty Turns Toxic: Acute Contact Dermatitis and Kidney Injury Following Hair Straightening

    November 2025 in “ Contact Dermatitis ”
    M. Abu Taleb, Nesrine Ben Salah, Sirine Bchir, M. Hamouda, Nouha Ben Mahmoud, H. Raiss, Asma Ben Mabrouk, Samiha Mabrouk, Khadija Mansour, Habib Skhiri, Jameleddine Zili
    Studysummary This study reported a case of acute kidney injury and toxic contact dermatitis in a 25-year-old woman following exposure to a glyoxylic acid-containing hair straightening product, highlighting glyoxylic acid's potential role in cutaneous and renal complications and underscoring the need for stronger regulation and awareness. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
    This article presents a case of a 25-year-old woman who developed acute toxic contact dermatitis and acute kidney injury after using a hair straightening product containing glyoxylic acid (GA). The patient experienced scalp irritation and renal symptoms shortly after application, with renal biopsy revealing calcium oxalate deposits and acute tubular necrosis. The study suggests that GA, absorbed through the skin, is metabolized into oxalate, leading to kidney damage. Recovery followed cessation of exposure and supportive hydration. The case highlights the potential health risks of GA in hair treatments and calls for increased regulation and awareness.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    1 / 1 results