Lawsuits Allege Hair Relaxers, Straighteners Cause Cancer

Attorneys working with ClassAction.org are pursuing legal action on behalf of consumers who were diagnosed with uterine or ovarian cancer after using a hair relaxer or hair-straightening product.

Several studies have linked the use of hair straighteners and relaxers to an increased risk of cancer, and now lawsuits are being filed that allege the manufacturers knew about these health risks but failed to warn consumers.

To find out more, fill out the form on this page. An attorney may reach out to you directly to answer your questions and help determine whether you can file a lawsuit to recover money for medical expenses and more.

Studies Show Hair Relaxers, Straighteners Linked to Cancer, Health Problems

On October 17, 2022, the National Cancer Institute published a study that found that the use of hair straightening products is linked with a higher risk of developing uterine cancer.

According to the study, certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals that are often found in straighteners and other hair products may have contributed to this cancer risk. Endocrine disruptors, such as formaldehyde and phthalates, interfere with how the body’s hormones function and could potentially lead to reproductive problems, altered development, disrupted sexual development, low birth weight, a weakened immune system, and cancer.

Additionally, the use of hair straighteners and relaxers can cause scalp lesions and burns, which make it even easier for harmful chemicals to pass into the body. The study also pointed out that applying heat through flat ironing or blow drying during straightening treatments can release or decompose the damaging chemicals, leading to higher exposure.

Several earlier studies have linked hair relaxers and straighteners to health problems, including breast cancer, uterine fibroids and early puberty.

In the wake of the National Cancer Institute study, the manufacturers of certain hair straighteners and relaxers have been hit with lawsuits alleging they should have known about these health risks and properly warned consumers.

Which Hair Relaxer Brands Are Under Investigation?

Has the FDA Banned Formaldehyde in Hair relaxers?

According to an October 2023 Associated Press report, the FDA has gotten the ball rolling on a possible ban of formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing chemicals as ingredients in hair-straightening and -smoothing products. 

The agency stated that these chemicals, when used in certain cosmetic products, have been linked to allergic reactions, breathing problems, fibroids, fertility issues and an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly among Black women, to whom hair straightening products are often marketed. 

Per the AP, the FDA intends to publish an advance notice of proposed rulemaking, which would apply to salon-grade and at-home products, by April 2024, though potential rules may stay on the agency’s agenda for years, the publication noted. 

In a video post on the official FDA Instagram account, the agency, in an attempt to combat misinformation about the proposal, emphasized that no action has been taken yet and that it plans to work with the cosmetics industry to develop formaldehyde-free straightening products.

A Boston University study published in October 2023 in the journal Environmental Research found that, among thousands of postmenopausal Black women followed for the study, those who used hair relaxers more than twice a year for over five years had a greater than 50 percent increased risk of uterine cancer compared to those who “never or seldom used them.” 

If the FDA eventually issues a final rule banning formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing chemicals from hair-straightening and -smoothing products, it would be published in the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuits: Are They Class Action Cases?

Although several proposed class action lawsuits have been filed, those cases are looking to repay consumers for the cash they spent on the hair relaxers and straighteners – and not for any monetary damages associated with developing cancer or other health problems.

The attorneys working with ClassAction.org are looking to file individual hair relaxer lawsuits on behalf of people who used products from the brands mentioned on this page and developed uterine cancer or ovarian cancer.

Since these cases are being handled on an individual basis, that means you’ll need to file your own lawsuit and be represented by your own attorney, who will attempt to resolve the matter on your behalf.

What Can I Get from a Perm Lawsuit?

While there are no guarantees as to how much women could receive for their injuries – or even if the litigation will be successful - some law firms estimate settlement payouts could be between $100,000 and $400,000 on the low end.

How Much Does Filing a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Cost?

The attorneys are handling these lawsuits on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you will only pay if they win your case. In these situations, your attorney will typically collect a portion of the money you receive.

What You Can Do

After you get in touch, an attorney may reach out to you directly to answer your questions and explain what’s involved with filing a lawsuit. It costs nothing to get in touch, and you’re not obligated to take legal action if you later change your mind.

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