Hair Relaxer

Hair Relaxer

Hair Relaxer

About This Case

In a rapidly unfolding legal landscape, the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit has emerged as a significant case drawing considerable attention. The lawsuit involves individuals, predominantly Black women, who have developed cancer after regularly using hair relaxer products. With over 100 lawsuits filed against major manufacturers like L'Oreal and Revlon, this case represents a critical juncture in the accountability of cosmetic companies for the potential harmful effects of their products.

Statistics

Approximately 70% of African American women reported using hair straighteners or relaxers in 2016. This figure indicates the widespread use of these products among this demographic, and potentially higher exposure to their associated risks.

Women who used hair straighteners at least every 5-8 weeks had about a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-users.

Black women who used hair straighteners two or more times a year for 15 years or longer had a 60% higher risk of breast cancer.

Approximately 70% of African American women reported using hair straighteners or relaxers in 2016. This figure indicates the widespread use of these products among this demographic, and potentially higher exposure to their associated risks.

Women who used hair straighteners at least every 5-8 weeks had about a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-users.

Black women who used hair straighteners two or more times a year for 15 years or longer had a 60% higher risk of breast cancer. 

Approximately 70% of African American women reported using hair straighteners or relaxers in 2016. This figure indicates the widespread use of these products among this demographic, and potentially higher exposure to their associated risks.

Women who used hair straighteners at least every 5-8 weeks had about a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-users.

Black women who used hair straighteners two or more times a year for 15 years or longer had a 60% higher risk of breast cancer. 

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Common

Questions

Common

Questions

Common

Questions

01

How are hair relaxers linked to cancer?

International studies have linked hair relaxers to various cancers, including hormone-sensitive types like ovarian, breast, and uterine cancers. A 2022 National Institutes of Health study found that frequent use of chemical hair relaxers may double the risk of uterine cancer. Harvard University's Tamara James-Todd has shown that hair straightening products used by some Black women contain endocrine disruptors linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Prolonged use of hair-relaxing products could also increase the risk of breast cancer, according to a 2021 study from Oxford University.

02

What exactly is a hair relaxer and what purpose does it serve?

Hair relaxers penetrate the hair shaft layers to loosen and straighten the natural curl pattern. They break and reform the cortex bonds, resulting in permanent straightening. A hair relaxer treatment is like a reverse perm. Modern hair relaxer products typically use a strong alkali as the active agent. Some brands may use formaldehyde or ammonium thioglycolate.

03

What are the side effects from chemical hair relaxers?

It’s important to note that hair relaxers can have side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Scalp-related side effects include burns, scabbing, dandruff, irritation, rashes, hair loss, thinning, and premature greying. Hair-related effects include split ends, breakage, frizz, knots, and difficulty in detangling. In serious cases, hair relaxer use has been linked to certain cancers and other severe diseases.

04

How do I Qualify?

To file a hair relaxer claim, gather the following information: brand and product name, frequency of use, diagnosis details, and supporting evidence. Then, consult with an experienced lawyer for guidance throughout the process.

JJJ: Hair Relaxer Case Updates

Revlon Hair Relaxer Updates | Houston | Jason Joy & Assoc.

By Jason J. Joy & Associates • September 1, 2023
Revlon, despite its ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, has presented an update to the multidistrict litigation (MDL) judge. The company has emphasized that any claims against it must adhere to the bankruptcy court's order and proof-of-claim procedures. Under the plan's articles, potential plaintiffs must file a hair straightening complaint against Revlon by September 14, 2023. This deadline provides a unique opportunity to those who have suffered adverse reactions from the product, as even if they had already filed a claim, they can still file an additional one before the deadline. It is important to note, however, that those who are already part of the MDL may not be able to pursue separate personal injury claims against Revlon outside of the MDL. As a result of this unique opportunity and other developments in the lawsuit proceedings, more claimants are being encouraged to come forward and file their own hair relaxer lawsuits if they have experienced adverse reactions to the product. With a wide range of potential damages. It is important for individuals affected by these hair relaxer products to speak out about their experiences in order to seek justice. The lawsuits allege that Revlon's hair relaxers contain dangerous chemicals that could cause severe health issues. The complaints further allege that Revlon failed to properly warn consumers about these risks. The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages related to their injuries. The plaintiffs' master complaint has been filed, offering a comprehensive and detailed explanation of the allegations made by the plaintiffs. The MDL has grown to encompass 275 cases, with 36 new cases added in the last month, despite this period traditionally being a slow time for new mass tort filings. A new short form complaint has been approved by the court, streamlining the process of filing new hair relaxer lawsuits. This could potentially lead to an increase in new filings. The case filings have reached a new monthly high in July, with 87 new cases added, indicating a steady upward trend in new case filings over the last four months. As we continue to monitor this case, we anticipate further developments and will keep you informed on all updates regarding these hair relaxer lawsuits. If you or someone you know has been negatively affected by a hair relaxer product please reach out to our office for a legal consultation 713-221-6500 . While this article provides general legal information, it does not constitute legal advice. The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer.

Hair Relaxer Litigation Update – Progress and Future Steps

July 1, 2023
The defendant companies have proposed a "bifurcation" process, splitting the legal proceedings into two stages. The first stage would examine the general link between hair relaxers and cancer. If resolved in favor of the plaintiffs, the second stage would investigate other issues, such as failure to warn about risks, when the companies became aware of these risks, and potential compensation amounts.

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