Hair relaxers are popular cosmetic chemical products primarily used by African-American women to relax, straighten, and smooth the appearance of hair. Now they have recently come under scrutiny due to potential health risks. Their use has been linked by allegations of uterine (endometrial) and ovarian cancers.
Research Findings
According to a 2022 study by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, a link between chemical hair straighteners and the increased risk of uterine (endometrial) and ovarian cancers were found. The study reports that women who used hair relaxers more than four times per year, were 4 1/2 times more likely to be diagnosed with these cancers compared to those who did not use such products.
Legal Actions and Consumer Claims
In response to these health concerns, over 8,000 lawsuits have already been filed. Theories presented by lawyers include various manufacturers’ failure to warn the public about their products’ potential risks, and negligence in their duties to sufficiently test them before being sold. Other claims focus on product liability, asserting that hair relaxers are inherently dangerous and defective due to their harmful chemical composition.
Industry and Regulatory Responses
The significant legal actions and growing body of evidence have prompted both the industry and regulatory bodies to take notice. Manufacturers have begun reformulating their products, removing or reducing harmful chemicals, and or searching for safer alternatives. There have also been calls for stricter governmental regulations and more comprehensive safety testing.
Legal Assistance and Claims Process
Individuals who have used hair straightening, relaxing, or anti-frizz/polish products, five or more times in a year and suffer from uterine (endometrial) or ovarian cancer may have a valid claim for significant financial compensation. Important considerations for such cases include undergoing procedures like a hysterectomy, myomectomy, endometrial ablation, Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE/UFE), and or dealing with major surgeries related to fibroids or female infertility. Proof of purchase, empty product bottles, and/or photos with relaxed hair can also help strengthen the claim. The Referral King® and co-counsel team offer a no-cost case evaluation and are reviewing potential hair relaxer claims across all 50 states. In fact there are no upfront fees
or costs unless we win your case!
