Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Information

Recent findings have linked the use of chemical hair relaxers to severe health issues, sparking a wave of lawsuits against major manufacturers. Hair relaxers, commonly used to straighten and manage tightly coiled hair, contain carcinogenic components that interfere with female reproductive hormones, elevating the risk of cancers such as uterine, ovarian, and breast cancer, as well as fibroids and endometriosis. This connection was highlighted in a 2022 study by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH). The legal response to these findings has culminated in a mass tort against companies like L’Oreal, SoftSheen Carson, and others, who plaintiffs allege were negligent in their design and failed to warn consumers about the risks.

Women who have used hair relaxers for extended periods, particularly those starting at a young age, face increased health risks. Not only are these products linked to uterine and ovarian cancers, but they also contribute to conditions like endometriosis and infertility. Studies have shown that hair relaxer users are more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer compared to non-users, with Black women being disproportionately affected due to higher usage rates. These products contain harmful chemicals like phthalates, which act as endocrine disruptors, and other carcinogens that increase the risk of hormone-related cancers.

If you or a loved one have used hair relaxers and suffered from any of these serious health conditions, you may be eligible to participate in the ongoing mass tort litigation. The lawsuits are currently centralized in the multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, streamlining the pre-trial process. It’s vital to get legal assistance to file a claim. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, including submitting a short-form complaint detailing the type of hair relaxer used and the injuries sustained. By joining the mass tort, you contribute to holding manufacturers accountable and seeking the compensation you deserve for your suffering.