For decades, the beauty industry has been under intense criticism due to a barrage of questionable products — and among these are chemical hair straighteners. Also referred to as chemical straighteners, they are utilized to alter curly or coiled hair into smooth textures by breaking down protein bonds in the strands. Hair relaxers offer users an effortless way for them to flaunt their dream look without having any permanent effects on their natural appearance.
In the wake of growing concern over hair relaxers potentially increasing cancer risks, especially uterine cancer, studies have continually demonstrated that these chemicals include carcinogens.
The OGX hair product cancer lawsuit brought to light the potential dangers when using hair relaxer products and alerted consumers of such hazards. As a result, it is more important than ever for people to know the associated risk before utilizing these types of products.
What Are Hair Relaxers?
Hair relaxers are a type of cosmetic product used to alter the texture of curly or coiled hair. They contain chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide and guanidine hydroxide, that are designed to break down bonds within the strands, allowing them to become smoother and straighter.
Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic substance that can cause severe burns and irritation if it comes into contact with the skin. It is also linked to an increased risk of uterine cancer. Guanidine hydroxide, meanwhile, has been found to be an allergen and can cause skin irritation in some users.
Hair relaxers also often contain guanidine hydroxide and ammonium thioglycolate, which are less dangerous than their harsher counterparts but can still cause harm if misapplied. To prevent damage to the scalp and hair, it is important that these chemicals be used with caution for optimal results.
The Controversy Surrounding Hair Relaxers
Hair relaxers have been controversial for many years because of their chemical composition and potential health risks. These chemical hair relaxer products are highly corrosive and can cause severe burns and other injuries if not used correctly, leading to more than one hair product cancer lawsuit.
Concerns about the potential health risks associated with chemical hair relaxers and permanent hair dyes have sparked increased interest in natural hair care among white women. Studies have suggested a link between the use of these chemical-laden hair products and an elevated risk of cancer, particularly among frequent users, due to endocrine disruptors present. The rates of certain types of cancer have been observed to be higher in women who regularly employ such hair care products. As a result, many individuals are seeking safer alternatives that do not contain harmful ingredients or toxic chemicals.
This growing awareness has led to a shift towards embracing natural hair and exploring toxic chemical relaxer-free options, specially among women of color. Researchers continue to investigate the connection between the chemicals in hair products and adverse health effects, urging moderation or opting for safer alternatives to mitigate potential health conditions and medical bills associated with these widely used hair care products.
Moreover, repeated use can lead to hair breakage, thinning, and loss, significantly impacting a person’s self-esteem and confidence.
The Risk Factor of Hair Relaxers
A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that women who used chemical straighteners and relaxers were at a greater breast and uterine cancer risk.
The study found that women who used these products at least every five to eight weeks were 30% more likely to develop breast cancer than those who did not. Similarly, those who used the products at least every five to eight weeks were also 40% more likely to develop uterine cancer.
Another study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found similar results. It found that women who used hair relaxers had a higher risk of developing breast cancer due to the dangerous chemicals. Researchers also observed that women who used hair relaxers had a higher risk of developing uterine fibroids.
OGX Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
OGX is a widely-recognized hair care brand that produces a range of hair relaxers. However, the company is currently in hot water as it faces a lawsuit filed in 2020 by women who claim to have developed uterine cancer after using its products.
This lawsuit alleges that the company’s Brazilian Keratin Therapy hair straightening product contains high levels of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
According to the plaintiffs, OGX products had high levels of the chemical DMDM hydantoin, which can release formaldehyde when it comes into contact with water.
Formaldehyde is used in hair straightening products to help the hair maintain its shape after straightening. However, formaldehyde can also cause cancer, particularly when it is inhaled.
The plaintiffs in this lawsuit further claim that OGX failed to warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with their products. As alleged, the makers of OGX knew or should have known about the potential risks associated with their products.
Thus, the lawsuit seeks damages for individuals harmed by the OGX products, including those who have developed cancer or other health problems.
What to Do if You Have Sustained Injuries From Hair Relaxers
If you have sustained injuries from using hair relaxers, you should first seek immediate medical attention. Some common manifestations of hair relaxer injuries can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but they may include chemical burns, hair loss, and scalp irritation.
Furthermore, documenting your injuries and seeking treatment as soon as possible is essential. You should also report the incident to the manufacturer of the hair relaxer and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Finally, keeping any remaining product and packaging for evidence is vital.
In addition to seeking medical attention, speaking with an attorney with experience handling cases involving a hair product cancer lawsuit and other dangerous products is also necessary. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and guide you through the legal process.
Filing a Hair Product Cancer Lawsuit
You may be entitled to compensation if you have been injured due to hair relaxers.
To file a lawsuit, you must hire an attorney with experience in product liability cases. Your attorney will help you gather evidence to support your claim, including medical records and product packaging. Moreover, they will negotiate with the hair care company’s insurance provider to secure a fair settlement.
Your product liability lawsuit may include medical records, photographs of your injuries, and expert medical testimony. You must also demonstrate that beauty companies were negligent, such as failing to warn consumers about common types of risks and safe usage. An expert attorney can weave through these pieces of information to build punitive damages and a strong case linking hair relaxers and cancer.
The qualifications to file an OGX hair relaxer lawsuit include:
- Use of OGX hair relaxers that contained dangerous chemicals
- Diagnosis of uterine cancer or other health issues related to formaldehyde exposure
- Evidence of negligence on the part of the manufacturer
- Proving that OGX should have known about the potential risks associated with their products
Hair Relaxer Attorney in California
The connection between hair relaxers, harmful chemicals, and cancer is a matter of profound concern that carries significant implications for both individuals and their loved ones.
Understanding and addressing this link is crucial, as the potential health ramifications extend beyond personal well-being to encompass the broader circle of family and friends. The intricate relationship between chemical relaxers and cancer underscores the importance of informed choices in hair care practices. By delving into this issue, individuals can proactively safeguard their health and contribute to the well-being of those they care about. It serves as a call to action for greater awareness, research, and the pursuit of alternative, safer hair care options to ensure the collective welfare of individuals and their cherished relationships.
Legal representation from a trusted law firm cannot be underscored when filing hair straightener cancer lawsuits. In this regard, Farahi Law Firm has expert-level experience in product liability cases, covering those involving hair relaxers, medical conditions, and cancer in women.
Farahi Law Firm offers free case evaluations and a contingency fee basis to help you understand your legal options and determine if you have a case due to hair relaxers and cancer. Its team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to fighting for justice and their clients’ cause and will hold errant hair care companies accountable for their products’ harmful effects.
