Q: I tried a straightening treatment and my hair turned to straw. My stylist suggested I try the Brazilian one. I take a lot of medications and wonder if it this treatment will effect my hair?

A: The reason your stylist suggested the Brazilian treatment is because it uses keratin, a naturally occurring protein found in the hair, which helps to nourish, replenish and strengthen. It is much gentler on the hair than other straightening treatments, and most of the women I know who have done it say their hair felt softer and looked healthier post-treatment.

That said, there has been a lot of controversy over this treatment, most notably the use of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, in the formulation. Since the controversy erupted back in 2007 there are formaldehyde-free formulations available. But be sure to do your homework and find a salon that offers the less potent formulation.

Taking medications should not effect your hair or the results of the treatment, but it's always best to talk to the doctor that prescribed the medication, as well as your stylist, prior to getting the treatment.