H.R. 7685 — Healthy Hair Act

This section amends the adulterated cosmetics provision of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) (21 U.S.C. 361) by adding a new paragraph (h) deeming any hair straightening or hair smoothing product (including a keratin treatment) adulterated if it contains any amount of formaldehyde or a formaldehyde-releasing substance. It defines "hair straightening or hair smoothing product" in section 604 of the FD&C Act (21 U.S.C. 364) as a product intended to straighten, relax, smooth, or otherwise alter the texture of hair. The amendments apply to cosmetics introduced or delivered for introduction into interstate commerce on or after 180 days after enactment.

This section directs the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, in consultation with the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, to conduct a study on the short-term and long-term health impacts of exposure to hair straightening or smoothing products containing formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing substances (or similar chemical agents posing comparable health risks), including effects on salon workers and associations with cancer, respiratory issues, and endocrine disruption. The section further requires submission to Congress of an initial report with study findings and regulatory recommendations not later than one year after enactment and a final report with such information not later than two years and two months after enactment.