Iran's deputy health minister confirmed that "some people" were poisoning girls but didn't elaborate on who or how.
Many women have been straightening their hair in recent years, but they may not be aware of the serious potentially life-threatening health risks.
Samples of the poison were taken for analysis and an investigation was opened into the assassination attempt.
Poisonous chemicals that are often used in makeup are especially dangerous for children because of their undeveloped immune systems.
Similar conspiracy theories were spread after the death of PLO leader Yasser Arafat, although a French investigation found no evidence of foul play.
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