Is The Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Legit?

Now, let’s take a look at some of the scientific research that lawyers say backs up the claims in the lawsuits. It’s important to note, researchers emphasized these findings show associations, not proof hair relaxers directly cause cancer.

Uterine Cancer

A major focus of the lawsuits is a 2022 National Institutes of Health Study named the “Sister Study.”

The study findings reported an association with double the risk of uterine cancer for women who used hair relaxers four or more times a year compared to non-users.

Ovarian Cancer

Another study reported higher ovarian cancer rates in frequent users of hair relaxers.

Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is a type of Uterine cancer. This cancer starts in the uterine lining, and is linked to hormone balance. For example, higher exposure to estrogen can increase the risk of developing this type of cancer. People suing say that the chemicals in hair relaxers may affect the way hormones function, possibly leading to this type of cancer.

Other Cancers Being Studied

Other research has been done on possible connections between hair relaxers and other cancers. The findings are preliminary and the other cancers are not part of this MDL.

Research shows Black women are more likely to use chemical hair relaxers and often begin at younger ages.

Black women in the United States report facing hair discrimination due to the prevalent Eurocentric beauty standards. An example of these Eurocentric beauty standards would be straight hair. Some research findings seem in line with this claim. Social research from NYU found that many Black women report being told their natural hair appeared “unkempt” or “unfit.”

The CROWN Act study by Dove also found high amounts of reported hair discrimination. In a survey they found hair discrimination was reported by:

• 66% of Black and Brown girls in White-majority schools,
• 45% of girls of color overall, and
• Nearly half of surveyed Black mothers.

Lawyers argue that hair relaxer brands leveraged these beauty standards in marketing. For instance, the following marketing copy is referenced in the MDL: “L’Oréal knows how beautiful Black hair can be.”

Yes, people are actually filing lawsuits. NBC news reports that a growing number of Black women have filed lawsuits claiming that hair relaxers led to serious health problems like cancer and fibroids. The lawsuits name big beauty brands and are currently pending in court. So far, no judge has made a final decision about who’s responsible.

The lawsuits are “legit,” or real. They’re based on allegations supported by scientific studies and media reporting. But keep in mind the science doesn’t prove that relaxers cause health problems. The companies deny the claims. The lawsuits are still in progress, and we don’t yet know how they’ll end.

Note: Fill out the form or call to see if legal options may be available. Inquiries will be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement to assist with next steps.

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer or had a hysterectomy after long term hair relaxer use?

A free hair relaxer lawsuit consultation is available. It’s meant to review basic information and discuss whether legal options may exist in your situation. Results are not guaranteed.