Many women across the U.S. are now suing companies that make chemical hair relaxers and straighteners, claiming these products led to serious health issues like uterine, ovarian, and endometrial cancer.
These lawsuits are part of a growing legal battle, and if you or a loved one has been affected, you may be able to seek compensation.
Recent Updates in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuits (October 2024)
🔹 Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed
A woman in Georgia filed a lawsuit saying her mother died from uterine cancer caused by years of using hair relaxers. She’s asking for compensation for wrongful death, emotional distress, and punitive damages.
🔹 Fees for Lawyers Limited
A judge in Chicago decided that attorneys helping with the lawsuits can only take 11% of settlement money from cases in the main group (MDL). This rule does not apply to cases outside of the MDL.
🔹 Class Action for Refunds Approved
A judge has allowed a class action lawsuit to move forward. This means consumers can now ask for refunds for buying hair relaxers without knowing about the cancer risk.
🔹 MDL Case Count Slightly Down
There was a small drop in active lawsuits in September, bringing the total to 8,393 cases. However, the numbers had surged in August with over 200 new cases added.
🔹 Companies Pushed to Share Documents
- Plaintiffs are asking a judge to force Strength of Nature to turn over a study related to uterine cancer.
- L’Oréal USA is being pressured to provide documents from its parent company, L’Oréal S.A., which it has not yet shared.
🔹 New Lawsuits Filed
- A woman in Virginia filed a case saying she developed endometrial cancer after using hair relaxers.
- A Tennessee woman also filed, claiming the products caused her uterine fibroids and endometrial cancer.
🔹 Economic Loss Claims Continue
A judge ruled that economic damage claims—such as the cost of buying unsafe products—can move forward, even if the person wasn’t diagnosed with cancer yet.
🔹 More Legal Developments
- Plaintiffs are opposing a dismissal request from John Paul Mitchell Systems.
- Revlon is being criticized for not providing required documents.
- Walmart and CVS were removed from the main lawsuit because their involvement was limited.
- Plaintiffs are asking the court to dismiss non-cancer cases for now, with the option to refile later.
Why Hair Relaxers May Be Dangerous
Many hair relaxers and straighteners contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like parabens and formaldehyde. These chemicals can mess with your hormones and are linked to an increased risk of cancer.
💡 How Hair Relaxers Work
These products break the natural bonds in your hair to make it straight. But repeated use increases your exposure to harmful chemicals.
💡 Keratin Treatments
Popular for frizz control, many keratin treatments release toxic gases when heat is used—especially in salons without good ventilation.
What the Research Says
Studies from the National Institutes of Health show that women who use hair relaxers regularly have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer.
The FDA is now considering banning formaldehyde in hair products to protect consumers from these dangers.
Impact on Black Women
Black women are most affected by these products. Many brands target Black consumers in their marketing, leading to higher and more frequent use—putting them at greater risk. Ongoing research is still examining this concerning pattern.
How You Can Take Action
If you or someone you know developed cancer or other health problems after using hair relaxers or straighteners, you might be able to file a lawsuit.
You may be eligible to get compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income
- Emotional distress
