Hair Relaxer Lawsuits and the Fight for Safe Beauty Products

Hair relaxers have been a popular beauty product for decades, especially among women with naturally curly hair. However, the potential health risks associated with these products have recently come to light, with studies linking them to an increased risk of uterine cancer.

As a result of these concerns, law companies across the country are filing lawsuits on behalf of women who were afflicted with uterine cancer after using hair relaxers.

As of March 2023, there are 78 ongoing cases outstanding in the hair relaxer class action Lawsuit in the Northern District of Chicago, according to the Lawsuit Information Center. In addition, 57 additional hair relaxer cases were transferred to the multidistrict litigation from federal courts across the nation in the last month.

In this article, we will explore the role of law firms in the fight for safer beauty products and discuss what you can do to protect yourself from the risks of hair relaxers.

Understanding the Risks

Hair relaxers work by breaking down the bonds in the hair, enabling it to be changed into a straighter shape. Sodium hydroxide is the most prevalent active component in hair relaxers, and if not used properly, it can cause chemical burns.

Recent research has connected hair relaxers to a higher risk of uterine tumors and uterine cancer, with some studies claiming that women who use these products have a double the risk of getting uterine cancer than those who do not.

Recent research released in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute discovered a connection between the use of hair straighteners and the development of uterine cancer. While the research found no difference in the connection between straightener use and uterine cancer incidence by ethnicity, African-American women are disproportionately impacted due to their greater prevalence of use.

The Fight for Safe Beauty Products

The link between hair relaxers and uterine cancer has sparked a wave of lawsuits against hair care companies that produce these products. Across the nation, law firms are defending women who were diagnosed with uterine cancer after using hair relaxers, claiming that the businesses neglected to tell customers about the possible health risks connected with their products.

Law firms are fighting for safer beauty products by collaborating with consumer advocacy groups to promote stronger regulations on the chemicals used in these products. Law firms like TorHoerman Law, LLC represent individuals in filing a hair relaxer lawsuit related to the potential health risks associated with these products.

The issue of unsafe beauty products has also drawn the attention of regulatory bodies, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In response to concerns raised by consumers and advocacy groups, the FDA has stepped up its efforts to review and regulate the safety of cosmetic products.

Protecting Yourself

If you have used hair relaxers and have been diagnosed with uterine cancer, it is important to contact a law firm that specializes in these types of cases. A qualified attorney can assist you in understanding your legal choices and determining whether you are eligible to sue the hair care business that manufactured the product. It is critical to move promptly because there may be time limits on filing a claim.

If you have not been diagnosed with uterine cancer but are concerned about the potential health risks associated with hair relaxers, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Before anything else, it is critical to thoroughly study the sticker and follow the directions. You should also think about using a hair relaxer that is free of dangerous substances.

In a blog post by The Legal Examiner in December 2022, it was highlighted that a study found a substantial number of African American women use chemical hair relaxers containing ingredients such as ammonium thioglycolate, sodium hydroxide,  and pyridoxine hydrochloride, which are known to be endocrine disruptors. This causes worries about the possibility of later-life cancer development as a consequence of using these products.

Conclusion

The hair relaxer lawsuits and the associated health risks have brought to the forefront the need for manufacturers to prioritize the safety of their products. This has also underscored the importance of more robust regulations that protect consumers from potentially dangerous chemicals.

As consumers, it is crucial to stay informed about the products we use and take necessary precautions. With increased awareness and action, we can strive towards a future where all beauty products are safe to use, and the health of consumers remains the topmost priority.