California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris reached a settlement with the manufacturer of Brazilian Blowout hair straightening products that will require the company to warn California consumers and hair stylists that two of its most popular hair smoothing products emit formaldehyde gas.

The Jan. 30 settlement requires GIB LLC, which does business under the name Brazilian Blowout, to cease deceptive advertising that describes two of its popular products, "Brazilian Blowout Acai Smoothing Solution" and "Brazilian Blowout Professional Smoothing Solution," as formaldehyde-free and safe. A complaint filed by the Attorney General's office alleged that because the manufacturer did not inform customers or workers that formaldehyde gas was being released during a Brazilian Blowout treatment, product users did not take steps to reduce their exposure, such as increasing ventilation. As a result of the settlement agreement, the company must also make significant changes to its web site and pay $600,000 in fees, penalties and costs.

OSHA's Hair Salons web page provides information about potential formaldehyde exposure from working with certain hair smoothing and straightening products, including a hazard alert to hair salon owners and workers.