IT HAS ENRICHED the lives – or at least the hairdos – of thousands of women, and the pockets of countless hairdressers.

But a treatment which promises to transform a frizzy barnet into a shining, sleek bob in one easy treatment has just been banned by the Irish Medicines Board (IMB).

The IMB yesterday confirmed that Acai Professional Smoothing Solution, a product within the ‘Brazilian Blowout’ range, has been banned in Ireland after it was found to contain high levels of formaldehyde.

The ban came after tests by an American occupational health agency reportedly found significant levels of formaldehyde in the product.The company disputes the findings.

However, more than 200 people in Canada have joined a class action lawsuit against the makers of the product, claiming they suffered a runny nose, sore throat and burning eyes after using it. Others had shortness of breath and, in several cases, significant hair loss. Health Canada warned Canadians that the product could contain up to 12 formaldehyde, which is permitted in cosmetics at less that 0.2 per cent.

Salon owner Dylan Bradshaw told the Ray D’arcy show on Today FM he was awaiting further information from the Irish Medicines Board, but in the meantime was forced to withdraw the treatment, which had been on offer in his Dublin premises for prices starting from €200.

We came back with results last week from the company from Germany – they can’t find anything wrong. We can’t [offer it to customers] because they’re saying it’s withdrawn. But I know there’s nothing wrong with the product.

The IMB yesterday told the Irish Independent it had not received reports to indicate a significant incidence of undesirable effects in relation to the product.

However, formaldehyde is a known irritant and inhalation over a long period of time could lead to more serious health consequences.

The Irish Hairdressers’ Federation said last night it was aware that a number of products, commonly known as 12-week blow-drys, had been recalled for further testing. It advised its members to contact the supplier or manufacturer of the product they are using immediately for an update on its status.