Chemical Hair Relaxers

Study Links Chemical Hair Straighteners to Higher Risk of Uterine Cancer

A new study shows a link between frequent use of chemical hair straighteners or relaxers and an increased risk of developing cancer. Data shows that the toxic chemicals used in over-the-counter hair straightening products can make a person nearly twice as likely to develop uterine cancer. At Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs, we represent people who have been hurt by dangerous and defective products including hair relaxers and other toxic chemicals. We have over a century of combined legal experience. If you have been diagnosed with uterine cancer after using chemical hair straighteners, contact our office at (713) 751-0025 for a free consultation.

NIH Study for Cancer Risk Factors

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) released a study indicating a concerning link between the frequent use of chemical hair relaxers and an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. The study involved over 30,000 women from the United States between the ages of 35-74. Over the course of nearly 11 years, the women involved in the study were followed in an effort to identify risk factors for breast cancer and other conditions. During the study, 378 women were diagnosed with uterine cancer, a relatively rare form of cancer accounting for approximately 3% of new cancer cases.

Increased Risk Related to Frequent Hair Straightener Use

Concerning, however, was the fact that women who reported using chemical hair relaxers frequently were nearly twice as likely to develop this dangerous and potentially deadly form of cancer. Frequent use was defined as using a chemical hair straightener four or more times in the previous year. According to the study, the incidence of uterine cancer has been on the rise in the United States, particularly among black women. Nearly 60% of the women who reported using chemical hair relaxers identified as black women. Lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers of chemical hair straighteners across the country.

What Chemicals Do Hair Straighteners Have in Them?

Hair straighteners or relaxers contain chemicals that are designed to break down the natural structure of your hair. In order to achieve a straightening effect, many companies use toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing chemical), and parabens. Exposure to these chemicals can have serious health consequences. Chemicals found in hair straightening products:

Parabens
Bisphenol A
Metals
Formaldehyde
Cyclosiloxanes
Sodium hydroxide
Diethanolamine
Phthalates
Benzophenone-3
Triclosan

If you use chemical hair straightening products frequently, you may be at an increased risk for uterine cancer and other health conditions. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine whether you have a valid claim for compensation.

What Are Commonly Used Chemical Hair Straighteners?

Many of the world’s largest beauty manufacturers produce chemical hair straighteners. While some products have been banned in other countries due to high levels of toxic chemicals, the majority of hair straighteners are still available for purchase in the United States. Manufacturers that make chemical hair straightening products:

L’Oreal - product lines: SoftSheen Carson (SSC), SSC Dark and Lovely, and Mizani
Coppola - Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy and Keratin Express Brazilian Smoothing Treatment
Revlon - Conditioning Crème Relaxer
Africa’s Best - Herbal Intensive Dual Conditioning Relaxer, Touch-Up Plus Moisturizing No-Lye New Growth Relaxer, and Originals Olive Oil No-Lye, Conditioning Relaxer
IBS Beauty - IStraight Keratin Advanced Keratin Treatment
Soft & Beautiful - product lines: Botanicals Regular Texturizer, No-Lye Regular Texturizer, and No Lye Sensitive Scalp Relaxer
Silk Elements - MegaSilk Shea Butter Relaxer and Luxury Moisturizing Shea Butter Relaxer
Marcia Teixeira - Advanced Brazilian Keratin Treatment, Brazilian Keratin Treatment, and Chocolate, extreme de-frizzing treatment

Well-known manufacturers such as African Pride, Just for Me, and Silk Elements also make popular chemical hair straightener and relaxer products. Several of the products that tested positive for concerning levels of formaldehyde are known as “Brazilian Keratin Treatment.”

Am I Eligible for Compensation?

If you used chemical hair straightening products frequently (more than four times over the previous year) and were diagnosed with uterine cancer, you might be entitled to compensation. Lawsuits have been filed nationwide against manufacturers of these potentially harmful products. It is important to act quickly as you may only have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. To determine whether you are entitled to compensation, you need to speak to an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine your legal options. Depending on the situation, you might be entitled to financial recovery for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Diagnosed with Cancer After Using Chemical Hair Straighteners? Contact Our Office.

If you were diagnosed with uterine cancer after using a chemical hair straightener, contact our office at (713) 751-0025 to schedule a free consultation. A new study has linked the frequent use of chemical hair straightening products with an increased risk of developing a rare form of cancer. Call our office today to discuss how to take legal action.

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Tommy Fibich

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Tommy Fibich is a widely respected Texas Trial Attorney who has dedicated 45 years to a life of law and advocacy.
Russell Scott Briggs

Partner

Russ Briggs is a native of Beaumont, Texas, the son of two teachers. He is happily married to Rebekah Briggs and they have two adult daughters
Erin Copeland

Partner

Erin K. Copeland is a partner with the law firm of Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs in Houston, Texas.
Greg Fibich

Attorney

A native Houstonian, Greg started his legal career at a highly respected, boutique defense firm.
Jay Henderson

Attorney

Jay Henderson was born and raised in the East Texas town of Palestine. Jay graduated from Palestine High School in 1976.
Sara J. Fendia

Of Counsel

Attorney Sara J. Fendia is an experienced trial lawyer who has spent her more than 25 years in the legal field
Kelley Bogusevic

Attorney

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W. Michael Leebron, II

1945-2013

Mike Leebron was one of the state’s great trial lawyers until his death on July 6, 2013.
Anthony Foster

Attorney

Attorney Anthony Foster of Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs works on personal injury, products liability, business litigation, and Essure cases to help get clients maximum compensation for their injuries and loses.