A new study links hair relaxers to an increased risk of developing uterine fibroids and other female reproductive system health conditions. These hair relaxers, also commonly known as hair straightening products that Black women widely use, have been the focus of a recent lawsuit. The research showed exposure to chemicals found in hair relaxers, such as lye, guanidine hydroxide, and sodium hydroxide significantly increased the risk of uterine cancer. This is a cause for concern among many African American women and other women of color who often use hair relaxers to style their hair.
The National Cancer Institute Study on Chemical Hair Products and Cancer Risk Factors
The National Cancer Institute published a study in October 2022 linking the frequent use of chemical hair straightening products to a higher risk of developing uterine cancer. The study discovered certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as formaldehyde, contributed to the increased risk of cancer. Endocrine disruptors can interfere with the body’s hormone function, potentially leading to reproductive issues, early puberty, low birth rate, early menopause, and cancer.
Potential health hazards associated with hair relaxers have been studied, and specific hair product use has been associated with hormone-sensitive cancers, like ovarian or breast cancer. However, this is the first study to find medical evidence of a link between women who use straightening products and uterine cancer. Therefore, women must become aware of the potential risks associated with chemical hair straighteners and consult with their doctors before using hair relaxers.
Do Hair Relaxers Cause Cancer?
The study found that hair relaxers and other chemical straightening products increase the risk of developing female hormone-related health conditions, including uterine cancer:
“These findings are the first epidemiologic evidence of association between use of straightening products and uterine cancer.”
JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Volume 114, Issue 12, December 2022, Pages 1636–1645
If you have used hair straightening products and developed a female hormone-related health condition, or cancer commonly associated with female hormone-related health conditions, and you would like to know if you might have a case, please call us now (401-467-2300) or use our qualification tool.
Manufacturers in Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
Hair relaxer manufacturers, such as Johnson & Johnson and L’Oreal USA, are included in the lawsuit. Plaintiffs in the hair relaxer lawsuit allege that the companies failed to warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with hair straightening products.
Manufacturers considered for litigation include:
- L’Oreal USA, Inc.
- Strength of Nature Global, LLC
- SoftSheen/Carson Inc.
- Dabur USA Inc.
- Namaste Laboratories, LLC
- Godrej SON Holdings, Inc
Which Products are Included in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?
The hair relaxer lawsuit includes many hair straightening products, such as the SoftSheen-Carson Optimum Care Relaxer System and the Just For Me No-Lye Relaxer System. Plaintiffs in this hair relaxer lawsuit allege these hair relaxers contain ingredients that can cause cancer. Other products in the lawsuit include:
- Motions
- Dark & Lovely
- Soft & Beautiful
- Optimum Care
- Crème of Nature
- Just for Me
- Olive Oil Relaxer
- Organic Root Stimulator
- Brazilian Blowout
What are the Harmful Chemicals in Hair Relaxer Products?
Hair relaxer products contain a variety of potentially dangerous chemicals. These include lye, guanidine hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, and petroleum distillates. Each of these chemicals can have adverse health effects if misused or used for extended periods.
It’s essential to be aware of both the potential risks associated with hair relaxers and any hair relaxer lawsuits that may be taking place. If your health has been adversely affected by hair relaxers, contact a lawyer today to learn more about your legal options. You could help protect yourself and other hair-straightening product users from similar harm by taking action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hair Relaxers Lawsuit About?
Women who have developed uterine fibroids after using hair relaxers are bringing the lawsuit. The plaintiffs in the hair relaxer lawsuit allege that the companies failed to adequately warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with hair straightening products. They seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering caused by the hair relaxers.
How Do I Qualify for the Lawsuit?
To qualify for the hair relaxer lawsuit, you must have used a hair straightener or relaxer listed in the case and be able to prove you developed one of the following conditions:
- Uterine cancer
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Preterm birth
- Early puberty
- Early menopause
To find out if you’re qualified to participate in this hair relaxer lawsuit, contact a lawyer specializing in product liability cases or try our Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Qualification Tool.
What Type of Compensation Can I Receive?
If you’re eligible to participate in the hair relaxer lawsuit, you may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and any other damages resulting from your use of hair relaxers. The exact amount of compensation will depend on your case’s specific circumstances.
What’s the Cost of Hiring a Lawyer?
It’s crucial to find out the lawyer’s fee structure before agreeing to hire them to represent you in a hair relaxer lawsuit. Lawyers typically charge an hourly or a flat fee for their services. However, some lawyers may take hair relaxer lawsuits on a contingency basis, which means they won’t be paid unless they win your case.
At Gemma, you won’t owe us a cent unless we win your case and earn you compensation. This gives you everything to gain by having our firm on your side.
Take Action With Gemma Law Associates Today
If you or someone you know has been affected by cancer linked to hair relaxers, it is vital to take action as soon as possible. By filing a hair relaxer lawsuit, you could protect yourself and other hair straightening product users from potential harm in the future. Let the experienced Personal Injury Attorneys and Product Liability Lawyers at Gemma Law Associates help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us for a free, no-obligation consultation today!
Serving the Greater Providence metro area, including Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, North Providence, South Kingston, Coventry, Cumberland, Woonsocket, and East Providence.
