Did Chemical Hair Straighteners Cause Your Cancer?

Scientific studies have found that chemical hair straighteners and relaxers are linked to certain types of cancer, and it’s possible the makers of the products knew about the risk, and failed to warn consumers about them.

If you have developed cancer after using one of these hair relaxers or hair straightening chemicals, you may have grounds to pursue legal action, and to seek financial damages for the harm you suffered.

Click HERE to Get a FREE Claim Review from a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer

The potentially dangerous effects of hair relaxers and hair straightening products have come to light only in the past two years, with a major national study published in October 2022 by the National Institutes of Health.

The study of over 33,000 women revealed that women who reported frequent use of hair-straightening products, defined as more than four times in the previous year, were more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer. Over the almost-11 year study, 378 uterine cancer cases were diagnosed. 

Ovarian cancer is also a part of this unsettling picture. Another group of 40,559 women were observed over six years, revealing a concerning link between the frequent use of hair relaxers and a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer.

As awareness of the potential risks associated with certain hair relaxers and hair straightening chemicals rise, thousands of people are seeking compensation for their health being put at risk.

So far, more than 8,000 lawsuits have been filed nationwide in a multi-district litigation (MDL) against L'Oréal, Strength of Nature, Revlon, and Soft Sheen, alleging their chemical hair straighteners cause cancer.

Click HERE to Get a FREE Claim Review from a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer

Chemical Hair Straighteners and Cancer Risks

Recent studies into the link between certain cancers and chemical hair straighteners and relaxers have cast a spotlight on Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), like parabens and formaldehyde, which are suspected of playing a significant role in the increased cancer risk.

Scientists say the scalp's unique permeability may be giving these hazardous substances a more direct route into the body, amplifying the potential harm.

So what’s the science behind it? Chemical hair relaxers break down the disulfide bonds in your hair, giving you that relaxed look. But hidden in these formulas are the EDCs— and potential cancer triggers. Every four to eight weeks, as you touch up new growth, you're also increasing exposure to these EDCs. 

Meanwhile, many keratin treatments contain a formaldehyde derivative, which is a well-known EDC. When you apply heat with a flat iron, it's not just the style that's getting locked in—it's also the release of formaldehyde gas. In a salon without proper ventilation, it's not just a bad hair day; it's a health hazard.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also is taking note, and has indicated it is willing to move to protect consumers from the potentially negative effects that have been linked to such chemicals, which include not only cancer risks but also uterine fibroids, allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and fertility concerns.

As of an October 2023 report, there was talk of banning formaldehyde from hair-straightening products, however the agency this year missed its deadline to propose the ban, and did not provide an explanation for the delay.

Click HERE to Get a FREE Claim Review from a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer

Why Are Black Women at Higher Risk of Cancer from Hair Relaxers?

Particularly alarming in the recent research is the finding of the disproportionate risk that chemical hair straightening and relaxing products pose to Black women, a group often targeted by hair straightening product marketing. 

Supporting this are findings from Boston University, published in October 2023, which demonstrated that Black women who used hair relaxers more than twice a year for over five years faced a significant increase in uterine cancer risk.

Approximately 60 percent of participants who reported using straighteners in the previous year were self-identified Black women, according to the National Institute of Health study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. 

Women who believe they have been harmed by the repeat use of chemical hair straightening and relaxing products are now taking action. A new hair relaxer lawsuit was filed in the MDL on July 10 by a Michigan woman who claims she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in February 2021 as a result of the defendants chemical hair relaxer and straightener products. The defendants are L’Oréal, Strength of Nature, and Luster Products.

If you used chemical hair relaxers and later developed cancer, you may be entitled to compensation. Click here for a free claim review from a hair relaxer attorney.

3 Steps to Take If You Have a Hair Relaxer Cancer Claim

Many individuals are taking legal action against major brands, alleging that certain hair relaxers contain harmful chemicals linked to an increased risk of cancers affecting the uterus, endometrial lining, and ovaries. Your beauty products should enhance your well-being, not endanger it.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

If you or someone you know used chemical hair relaxers and were later diagnosed with uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer, you might be eligible for compensation.

Step 2: Submit Your Information

Complete the form on this page to share details about your situation. It takes only a few minutes.

Step 3: Receive a Free Case Review

If your case qualifies, a hair relaxer cancer attorney will contact you to discuss your eligibility and explore your legal options.

Fill out the form on this page to see if you qualify for a FREE case review. It's a simple step towards securing the justice and compensation you may deserve.