For over a century, hair relaxers have been used to straighten or “relax” curly or wavy hair chemically. Over time, it has been revealed that the chemicals in these products can cause certain types of cancer in women. The claims allege that manufacturers from major brands, such as Revlon and L’Oreal, failed to warn consumers of the risks associated with the endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in hair relaxers.
Hair relaxers are chemical products that are designed to straighten curly or wavy hair permanently. They operate by breaking down the protein bonds in the hair shaft, altering their natural structure.
There are two types of hair relaxers, lye and no-lye.
The main ingredient in lye relaxers is sodium hydroxide and while they are faster to process, they can cause scalp irritation.
The no-lye relaxers use calcium hydroxide and guanidine carbonate. They are less irritating to the scalp but can cause more dryness and calcium buildup.
According to a study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH), there is a link between chemicals in hair straightening products and cancer. The study has found that women who use chemical hair straightening products are at a higher risk of uterine cancer than those who don’t report using the products. Hair relaxers contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals and carcinogenic properties – these chemicals have been linked to higher breast and ovarian cancer risks.
Some dangerous chemicals in hair relaxers include parabens, bisphenol A (BPA), metals, and formaldehyde. Exposure to these chemicals is especially concerning compared to other hair products, given their increased absorption through the scalp. The products do not contain warnings of the presence of these harmful chemicals, or that cancer is a potential risk.
Hair relaxers are chemical compounds, usually, creams or lotions, applied to the hair to make it easier to straighten and manage. They are used in professional salons; many name brands make over-the-counter versions. The common denominator is the presence of harmful chemicals and a lack of warning. Many of the products claim they are safe for consumers, but science and the rising cancer numbers tell us differently.
Our lawyers are reviewing cases in all 50 states. We are focused on those diagnosed with uterine, ovarian, and endometrial cancers resulting from prolonged exposure to the harmful chemicals in hair relaxers.
The class-action is winding its way through the Illinois court system under the guidance of Judge Mary Rowland. new orders are coming down at a rapid pace. Follow the updates and cases as they are added.
Uterine cancer currently accounts for roughly 3% of all new cancer diagnoses but is the most common type of female reproductive system cancer. Studies have shown that incidents of uterine cancer are on the rise, especially among African-American women.
Treatment for uterine cancer is often surgery, which includes hysterectomy, lymph node dissection, and other procedures. The most common type of uterine cancer is endometrioid adenocarcinoma.
The hair relaxer market is a booming industry. The market is estimated to see a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.27% over the next five years. While much of this can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic as salons closed and home grooming became the norm. The major players named in lawsuits include:
The Black Women’s Health Study reported that 95% of women reported past or current use of hair relaxers consistently. While this is inconclusive, the study suggests that while demographics may play a role, frequency of use is a far more accurate risk factor for uterine cancer diagnosis. It is believed that Black women use the products more frequently and start using them much younger than other ethnicities.
Regardless of racial makeup, women who use hair relaxers are at risk and susceptible to uterine or ovarian cancer or endometriosis. The treatment varies, as does the mortality rate. The sacrifices are not worth the risk, especially when companies refuse to take responsibility and deny the presence of harmful aftereffects.
If you are experiencing any symptoms, please seek out your healthcare provider for further testing.
Vogelzang Law is here to help. Please contact us with any questions or concerns or if you need additional information. Our attorneys are on standby.
It’s never too late to fight for your rights. Contact us today to explore your options if you have been diagnosed with uterine, ovarian, or endometrial cancer due to hair relaxer use.
Our team of experienced litigators focuses on cancer-related exposure and has a track record of success. We care about you and your family and holding responsible parties accountable. Your fight is our fight.