Fighting Back: Legal Options for Those Affected by Hair Relaxer Chemicals
Recent studies have raised concerns about the safety of hair-straightening products, particularly for women of color. The chemicals in hair straighteners that are believed to be associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer include formaldehyde and hair relaxers that contain lye or no-lye.
According to the American Cancer Society, a study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that women who used chemical hair straighteners were 18% more likely to develop uterine cancer than those who did not use them. The study included data from more than 46,000 women and relied on self-reported use of hair straighteners. Women who used these products every five to eight weeks had a 30% higher risk of developing uterine cancer.
The Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute estimates that frequent use of hair-straightening products may increase the risk of uterine cancer. Among women who did not use hair-straightening chemical products in the past 12 months, approximately 1.6% developed uterine cancer by age 70. However, the study estimates that about 4% of women who frequently use hair-straightening products developed uterine cancer by age 70.
The study’s findings have led to a surge in lawsuits against popular hair-straightening brands, including Dark and Lovely, Just for Me, L’Oreal, Motions, Namaste, Olive Oil Girls, Optimum, Soft & Beautiful, TCB Naturals, and Strength of Nature Global LLC. The lawsuits allege that these companies failed to warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with their products and that they knowingly marketed their products to women of color.
According to a recent article by CNN, as of October 2022, more than 300 lawsuits have been filed against hair straightener manufacturers. The lawsuits allege that these companies failed to warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with their products, specifically the risk of developing uterine cancer. The plaintiffs claim that they were not informed of the presence of formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals in the hair straighteners, and that the companies knew or should have known about the potential health risks associated with their products.
One of the largest lawsuits involves a group of 100 women from 28 states who have come together to sue hair straightener brands, including L’Oreal, Soft & Beautiful, and Strength of Nature Global LLC, among others. The ongoing lawsuits seek to hold hair straightener manufacturers accountable for their actions and to secure compensation for those who have suffered health issues as a result of using these products.
At Oppenheim Law, we are committed to fighting for justice on behalf of our clients who have been impacted by hair-straightening products. Our team of experienced attorneys has a proven track record of success in product liability and personal injury cases, and we are dedicated to getting our clients the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with uterine cancer or other health issues as a result of using chemical hair straighteners, contact us today at 954-384-6114 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your case.
In addition, it’s important for individuals to be aware of the potential risks associated with hair-straightening products and to take steps to protect their health. This may include using alternative hair care products, limiting the use of hair-straightening products, or opting for natural hair styles. By being informed and taking action, we can work together to promote safer and healthier hair care practices for all.
Women of color are particularly impacted by the use of hair-straightening products. According to the study published in the International Journal of Cancer, Black women who used hair-straightening products had a 59% higher risk of developing uterine cancer compared to Black women who did not use such products. This finding is particularly concerning given that Black women are more likely to use hair-straightening products than women of other races.
The potential risks associated with hair-straightening products go beyond uterine cancer. Formaldehyde, a chemical commonly found in hair straighteners, has been linked to a range of health issues, including eye irritation, nosebleeds, and respiratory problems. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued warnings about the dangers of formaldehyde in hair-straightening products, and many salons have stopped using these products altogether.
Despite the potential risks, hair-straightening products remain popular among women of color. In fact, a recent survey by the Environmental Working Group found that about 80% of Black women and 30% of women overall use hair relaxers or straighteners. This underscores the importance of educating consumers about the potential risks associated with these products and providing safer alternatives.
Lawsuits Against Hair Relaxer Brands
In conclusion, the recent studies linking hair-straightening products to an increased risk of uterine cancer have raised concerns about the safety of these products. Hair-straightening brands such as Dark and Lovely, Just for Me, L’Oreal, Motions, Namaste, Olive Oil Girls, Optimum, Soft & Beautiful, TCB Naturals, and Strength of Nature Global LLC are facing a surge of lawsuits alleging that they failed to warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with their products. Consumers are urged to be aware of the potential risks associated with hair-straightening products and to take steps to protect their health. By working together, we can promote safer and healthier hair care practices for all.
At Oppenheim Law, we are committed to fighting for justice on behalf of our clients who have been impacted by hair relaxer products. Our team of experienced attorneys has a proven track record of success in product liability and personal injury cases, and we are dedicated to getting our clients the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with uterine cancer or other health issues as a result of using chemical hair straighteners, please call us today at 954-384-6114 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.
Determine Your Eligibility for a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
Curious if you’re eligible to file a hair relaxer lawsuit? We offer a free quiz to help you find out. Our quiz is designed to evaluate the details of your situation and determine whether you qualify to pursue legal action against a hair straightener brand. Take the first step towards justice and find out if you have a case by taking our free quiz today.