The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) published a study in 2022 which revealed a concerning link between the use of chemical straightening products and the increased risk of uterine and ovarian cancer. The study highlighted the presence of harmful ingredients like formaldehyde, metals, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic chemicals in hair relaxers, known to disrupt hormones and potentially lead to cancer.
According to the NIEHS study, women who frequently used these products faced a higher risk of developing cancer, particularly uterine and ovarian cancer. The report stated that individuals using such products more than four times a year were twice as likely to be diagnosed with cancer compared to non-users.
In response to the alarming findings, lawsuits were filed against major companies in the beauty industry. Notable defendants included L’Oréal USA, Inc., Revlon, and other prominent brands. The legal proceedings gained momentum as U.S. District Judge Mary M. Rowland recently added eight new defendants to the multidistrict litigation (MDL), emphasizing the significance of these developments for future legal actions.
The new defendants added to the case are Roux Laboratories, Advanced Beauty Systems, Inc., RNA Corporation, Wella Operations US, LLC, Wella AG, Murrays Worldwide, Inc., John Paul Mitchell Systems, and Bronner Brothers, Inc. This expansion of the defendant list marks a crucial phase in the ongoing litigation process.
Furthermore, in response to the growing concerns surrounding hair relaxer products, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a new regulation to ban the use of formaldehyde in all hair relaxer products. This regulatory initiative aims to address the health risks associated with these chemicals and protect consumers from potential harm.
As investigations into the impacts of hair relaxers on cancer risks continue, advocates are committed to pursuing justice for individuals who have suffered from uterine, ovarian, or endometrial cancer due to long-term use of these products.