How to Make Straight Hair without Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde helps straighten the hair. However, it is unhealthy; it is a carcinogen. Only 0.2 percent is safe.

But, one of the most popular methods - Brazilian Keratin Treatment - has up to ten times that amount.

Some companies say you can have straight hair without using formaldehyde. One such system is Caribbean Dream Relaxer, which uses cysteamine chlorohydrate.

The ingredients used in this treatment are not harmful. Depending on the length of your hair, Caribbean Dream Relaxer treatment can cost anywhere from $150 to $400 (very long hair up to $700). The treatment lasts about 4 months.

Another system to make straight hair without formaldehyde is Rusk Radical AntiCurl. It uses ammonium thioglycolate and lasts two to three months.

Prices range from $50 to $125 depending on the hair.

One more system is the Coppola Hair Therapy by Coppola. It does not use raw formaldehyde but a derivative called aldehydes, which are usually used in perfume.

The system typically costs $250 to $500. The process lasts 3 to 5 months.