Can Hair Straighteners Give You Cancer?
As of April 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is contemplating a ban on chemical hair straightening products containing formaldehyde and related ingredients. Given the popularity of these styling products, it’s crucial to examine the reasons behind the FDA’s decision in more detail – and explain how you should respond if you’re diagnosed with cancer after using chemical straighteners.
What Are Chemical Hair Straighteners?
Chemical hair straighteners, or relaxers, permanently straighten curly hair. They break down hair proteins and change the hair strand’s structure. Until the hair regrows, it stays straight.
Hair relaxers are used widely across the US, especially by Black women. But worryingly, these products often contain formaldehyde – a known human carcinogen.
Chemical Hair Straighteners and Cancer Risk
Formaldehyde is a colorless chemical. When heated, products containing formaldehyde release the toxic chemical into the air. And when inhaled, there’s a risk of lung irritation, headaches, and, alarmingly, an increased risk of cancer.
● There are proven links between using chemical hair straightening products containing formaldehyde and an increased risk of developing uterine cancer
● Ovarian and breast cancer may also be linked to chemical hair straightener use
These products are easily absorbed by the scalp and are more likely to cause reactions following repeated exposure. This means the more frequently you use these products, the greater your risk.
Chemical Hair Straightener Cancer Lawsuits
There are over 8,300 chemical hair straightener lawsuits pending in the US as of April 2024. For victims, this means it’s time to hold manufacturers accountable for hair product safety. If you use chemical hair straightener products and you are diagnosed with uterine, ovarian, or endometrial cancer, contact Madeksho Law.
How to Avoid Formaldehyde Exposure
It’s wise to be concerned about possible formaldehyde exposure if you use chemical hair straighteners. Take the following steps to avoid or at least mitigate your exposure risk.
● Check the product label before you buy. Avoid buying any straightening products with formaldehyde, formalin, or methylene glycol
● Formaldehyde is not always listed on the label, but some other ingredients may release formaldehyde when heat is applied during the styling process. Examples include timonacic acid and dimethoxymethane. Check the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration website for a full list
● Don’t let a stylist or hairdresser apply chemical products without first checking if they’re using products with formaldehyde. Do not use their services if they can’t answer this question
● Stay alert for updates and further changes to guidelines on the use of chemical hair straighteners and related products
Let Our Experienced Lawyers Review Your Case
Are you a chemical hair straightener user with a cancer diagnosis? Don’t suffer in silence. Instead, call Madeksho Law. Our experienced and compassionate attorneys will review your case, explain your legal options, and support you through the claims process.
Your consultation is free, and there is never a fee unless we win your case. Call now at 888-910-6376 or contact us online for a case evaluation.
