90pc of the hair products contained harmful substance: consumer watchdog

The Consumer Council found that most of the tested hair wax or clay samples contained toxic materials that affect reproductive function and urges caution.

The Council tested 50 hair styling products on the market and found that more than 90 percent of the samples contained harmful substances.

Among them, three hair waxes and one hair clay were found to contain the fragrance allergen BMHCA which is banned by the EU and can cause reproductive toxicity.

The Consumer Council pointed out that in animal experiments, BMHCA  affected the sexual function and fertility of adult animals and also caused toxicity to the developmental system in offspring.

Some studies also indicate that it may affect the function of the endocrine system.

The Consumer Council also found that three models of hair wax contained the EU-banned preservative MIT.

One hair wax sample contained a preservative with a concentration of "parabens" exceeding that in the mainland and EU requirements, and long term exposure may affect the reproductive system.

In addition, a styling spray sample was found to have a volatile organic compound VOC content of 77 percent, exceeding the 55 percent required by Hong Kong.

If the user inhales high concentrations of VOC, it may cause discomfort to the eyes, nose, and throat.

The test also found that many samples contained fragrance allergens, such as "linalool" and "limonene," which exceeded the EU's upper limit for ingredients required to be declared, but was not declared in the packaging.

Nearly 40 percent of the samples did not have a list of ingredients in Chinese or English; 17 models did not have any expiration date information; and one aerosol hair spray sample did not have "flammable or avoid high temperature" labeling in Chinese or English on the packaging.

The watchdog urged consumers to wash their hands immediately after using the product and use it in areas with good ventilation.