Hair Relaxer Cancer Litigation Nears First Trials by Wesley Merillat
Thousands of women have filed lawsuits against manufacturers of chemical hair relaxers and straightening products, alleging the companies failed to warn consumers about potential cancer risks associated with long-term use. The litigation follows scientific studies that found an association between frequent use of chemical hair straighteners and increased risks of certain gynecologic cancers.
What Are Hair Relaxers?
Hair relaxers and chemical straighteners are products designed to permanently alter hair texture. Many women begin using these products at a young age and continue treatments regularly for years. Many of these products contain chemicals that may be absorbed through the scalp, particularly when burns, irritation, or small cuts are present.
What Does the Research Show?
Scientific studies have reported an association between regular or frequent use of chemical hair relaxers and an increased risk of certain gynecologic cancers. Researchers have focused on ingredients that may act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone systems that play an important role in reproductive health.
Who May Be Most Affected?
Millions of women have used chemical hair relaxers and straightening products, which have historically been marketed primarily to Black women. Because of higher rates of long-term use, researchers have paid particular attention to the potential impact of these products within the Black community. Concerns have also been raised about hairstylists and beauticians who may have experienced significant occupational exposure through years of handling and applying these products.
What Cancers Have Been Linked to Hair Relaxers?
■ Uterine Cancer
■ Endometrial Cancer
■ Ovarian Cancer
What’s Happening with the Lawsuits?
More than 12,000 women have filed lawsuits against manufacturers including L’Oréal, Revlon, Strength of Nature, Namaste Laboratories, Avlon, House of Cheatham, Beauty Bell, and Sally Beauty. The cases are advancing toward the first trials, which are expected to begin later this year. If you regularly used chemical hair relaxers, or worked as a hairstylist or beautician with significant long-term exposure to these products, and were later diagnosed with uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer, you may have legal rights and should consider seeking a case evaluation.
Our firm is actively investigating these claims. If you have questions or would like us to review your case, contact us for a free consultation.