Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Overview

The Hair Relaxer Lawsuit claims that chemical hair relaxers may increase the risk of certain cancers.

Recent studies have indicated a possible link between these products, commonly used by African American women, and higher incidences of uterine and endometrial cancers.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuits primarily target manufacturers for not adequately warning consumers about the potential risks.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in hair relaxers, such as phthalates and formaldehyde, are believed to be the culprits causing hormonal imbalances and increased cancer risks.

Women who used hair relaxers more than four times a year are reportedly at a higher risk.

The mass amount of Hair Relaxer Lawsuits have led to the formation of a multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the numerous cases filed across the United States.

Victims seek compensation for medical expenses, pain, suffering, and other damages.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuits emphasize the need for greater transparency and safety in consumer beauty products.

As the Hair Relaxer Litigation progresses, it could have significant implications for the cosmetics industry and consumer safety standards.

The outcome of the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit may also pave the way for better regulatory measures and awareness regarding the health impacts of cosmetic products.

If you or a loved one used chemical hair relaxers and subsequently developed uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, or other related health problems, you may be eligible to file a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law’s Hair Relaxer Lawyers for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit instantly.

Is There a Hair Relaxer Class Action Lawsuit?

No, there is not a Hair Relaxer Class Action Lawsuit for uterine cancer and other health problems linked to chemical hair relaxers.

Rather, a multidistrict litigation (MDL) has been formed to handle the chemical hair relaxer cases.

The Hair Relaxer MDL consolidates numerous individual Hair Relaxer Lawsuits from across the United States into one centralized federal court.

The MDL addresses claims that chemical hair relaxers are linked to an increased risk of cancer.

This legal approach streamlines the process, allowing for more efficient handling of common factual questions and pretrial proceedings.

In multidistrict litigation (MDL), individual lawsuits with similar legal issues are consolidated for pretrial proceedings but may return to their original courts for trial.

In contrast, a class action lawsuit represents a group of plaintiffs with similar claims against a defendant, and the case is resolved as one legal action, with the outcome affecting all members of the class.

The History and Formulation of Chemical Hair Relaxers

Garrett Morgan created the first hair straightening product in 1909 when he discovered that a lubricant used to repair sewing machines could also straighten wool fibers.

After testing his invention on a dog and himself, he introduced the world to chemical hair relaxers.

Since then, hair relaxers have evolved significantly, with different formulations catering to various hair types and textures.

Hair relaxers are chemical hair straighteners formulated to alter the natural curl pattern of hair, making it smoother and more manageable.

Chemical hair relaxer products have been available in various types, including:

• Lye-Based Relaxers: These relaxers contain sodium hydroxide, the most potent and aggressive chemical in hair relaxers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes sodium hydroxide as “strongly irritating and corrosive,” meaning that it can cause severe damage to skin, eyes, and other tissues.
• No-Lye Relaxers: These relaxers contain alternative chemicals such as calcium hydroxide, guanidine carbonate, or lithium hydroxide. These hair relaxer chemicals are milder alternatives to lye-based hair relaxers, but they can still cause adverse effects and pose a health risk.
• Thio-Based Relaxers: These relaxers use ammonium thioglycolate or thioglycolic acid salts to break down hair bonds, allowing for a smoother texture. However, this chemical can also cause skin irritation and burns.

Hair relaxers are popular among people with curly or textured hair, particularly black women.

To this day, hair relaxers remain a multi-billion dollar industry, with millions of people using these products on a regular basis.

A Deep Dive on Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus.

Uterine fibroids can vary in size and number, ranging from small pea-sized nodules to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus.

There are several types of uterine fibroids, including:

• Intramural Fibroids: These most common types of uterine fibroids grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Submucosal Fibroids: These fibroids develop under the inner lining of the uterus and can potentially lead to heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility issues.
• Subserosal Fibroids: This type of fibroid grows on the outer wall of the uterus and can grow large enough to grow into your pelvis.
• Pedunculated Fibroids: These fibroids attach to the outer wall of the uterus by a mushroom-like stalk, making them more mobile and potentially causing pain or discomfort.

These growths are prevalent, particularly among women of reproductive age.

Around 40% to 80% of people assigned female at birth (AFAB) will develop uterine fibroids between the ages of 30 and 50.

Recognizing Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Symptoms of uterine fibroids can be diverse, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain and fertility issues.

Some common symptoms of uterine fibroids include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
• Pain or pressure on the abdomen or pelvis
• Lower back pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Frequent urination or difficulty urinating

• Constipation
• Bloating or enlargement of the lower abdomen
• Difficulty getting pregnant or recurrent miscarriages

Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early detection and appropriate medical intervention.

In some cases, uterine fibroids may not cause symptoms and go unnoticed until a routine gynecological examination, which is why scheduling regular check-ups with your healthcare provider is essential.

Known Causes and Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids

While the exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unclear, certain risk factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing them.

These risk factors include:

• Age: Uterine fibroids commonly develop between the ages of 30 and 50.
• Ethnicity: People of African descent are more likely to develop uterine fibroids than people of other ethnicities.
• Family History: If a family member has uterine fibroids, you may also have an increased risk of developing them.
• Hormonal Changes: Estrogen and progesterone, two female hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle, can promote the growth of uterine fibroids.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of developing uterine fibroids.

Aside from these risk factors, many studies have shown a potential link between using hair straightening products and developing uterine fibroids.

The Alleged Link Between Hair Relaxers and Uterine Fibroids

Recent studies have raised concerns about the potential link between hair relaxers and the increased risk of developing uterine fibroids.

A 2012 study found a positive association between hair relaxers and uterine fibroids among African American women.

Based on the use of hair relaxers, frequency of use, duration of use, and total number of burns experienced during use, the study concluded that chemical hair relaxer use increases the risk of uterine leiomyomata.

In a 2022 study of Sister Study participants, the researchers predict that around 1.64% of those who did not use hair relaxers before the study will develop uterine cancer by age 70.

The risk increased by 1.18% for women who used hair relaxers and 2.41% for frequent hair relaxer users, suggesting a potential link between hair relaxing products and uterine fibroids.

In 2023, researchers discovered that long-term use of hair relaxers may increase the risk of uterine cancer in postmenopausal women.

The study found that postmenopausal women who used hair relaxers for more than twice a year or for more than five years were over 50% more likely to develop uterine cancer than those who did not use hair relaxers.

In addition to uterine fibroids, there are allegations suggesting a potential link between hair relaxer use and other forms of cancer, including ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and endometrial cancer.

What is the Status of the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?

The legal landscape surrounding hair relaxers and uterine fibroids is evolving, with numerous Hair Relaxer Lawsuits filed against cosmetic companies and manufacturers alleging harm caused by these products.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuits raise critical questions about product safety and accountability within the beauty industry.

Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits commonly allege that cosmetic companies and manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers about the potential health risks associated with their hair relaxer products.

Plaintiffs claim that they were unaware of the alleged link to uterine fibroids and other cancers, leading to unforeseen health consequences.

Several prominent hair relaxer manufacturers have been named as defendants in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit, including:

• L’Oreal USA, Inc. (Dark & Lovely and Soft & Beautiful)
• Softsheen-Carson LLC (Optimum Relaxer)
• Strength of Nature Global, LLC (Motions Hair and Just for Me)
• Namaste Laboratories, LLC (ORS Hair Care)
• Godrej Group (African Pride)

If you were diagnosed with uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, or other health issues after using chemical hair relaxer products, you may be eligible to file a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

Use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit instantly.

Current Status of Legal Proceedings

The litigation for hair straightener cancer lawsuits is ongoing.

The growing number of Hair Relaxer Lawsuits resulted in multidistrict litigation (MDL).

Judge Mary M. Rowland of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois oversees the Hair Relaxer MDL.

As of January 2024, the MDL includes over 8,000 lawsuits filed against various manufacturers, and that number is expected to increase.

Judge Rowland has scheduled the initial bellwether trial for November 3, 2025, followed by a second trial on February 2, 2026.

The outcome of these lawsuits will have significant implications for the beauty industry and consumers.

Legal Options for Consumers Impacted by Chemical Hair Relaxer Products

Consumers have the right to expect that products they use are safe when used as directed.

In product liability cases, manufacturers may be accountable for failing to meet these expectations, especially when it comes to products with potential health risks.

Individuals harmed by hair relaxers have legal options to pursue compensation for their injuries.

Seeking legal consultation is crucial for individuals affected by the potential health risks associated with hair relaxers.

Experienced Hair Relaxer Lawyers can assess the merits of individual cases, provide guidance on the legal process, and help consumers navigate the complexities of product liability claims.

The Role of Hair Relaxer Lawyers

As the legal proceedings surrounding hair relaxers and uterine fibroids continue, experienced attorneys are crucial in advocating for consumer rights and holding manufacturers accountable.

With their knowledge of product liability laws and experience handling similar cases, Hair Relaxer Lawyers can provide valuable guidance to individuals seeking compensation for their injuries.

Experienced lawyers can provide the following legal services to their clients:

• Investigation: Lawyers can investigate the potential link between hair relaxers and health risks and build a strong case.
• Evidence Collection: Attorneys can gather evidence to support their clients’ claims, including medical records and expert opinions.
• Negotiation: Legal professionals can negotiate with manufacturers and insurance companies on behalf of their clients to seek fair compensation for their injuries.
• Litigation: In cases where parties cannot reach a settlement, lawyers can represent their clients in court and advocate for their rights.
• Guidance: Legal professionals can guide clients through the legal process and provide comprehensive support, including answering questions and addressing concerns.

If you have used hair relaxers and developed uterine fibroids or other health complications, it is essential to seek legal advice from experienced lawyers specializing in product liability claims.

With their help, you can hold manufacturers accountable and seek the justice you deserve for your injuries.

Do You Qualify For A Hair Straightener Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one used hair straightening products and subsequently developed cancer, you may be eligible to file a claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation, or use the virtual legal assistant on this page to see if you qualify to file a claim instantly.

As a potential client, there are a few steps you should take with the help of an attorney:

• Gathering Evidence
• Assessing Damages
• Determining Liability

An experienced attorney will also be able to help walk you through the steps of civil litigation.

Gathering Evidence For A Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

Evidence is important in any personal injury lawsuit, especially product liability cases.

In a Hair Straightener Lawsuits, evidence may include:

• Medical records
• Medical bills
• Receipts of purchase
• Lost wages as a result of medical treatment
• Witness statements
• Doctor’s notes
• Other evidence proving use of hair relaxer products and the subsequent health impacts

Assessing Damages For Hair Straightener Lawsuits

With the help of an experienced attorney, you will begin to assess damages related to your case.

Damages refer to the total losses incurred as a result of an injury or diagnosis, both economic and non-economic.

Damages in a Chemical Hair Straightener Lawsuit may include:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages or earning capability
• Lost quality of life
• Loss of consortium
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional damages
• Permanent disability
• Other damages

TorHoerman Law: Your Hair Relaxer Lawyer

If you or a loved one has suffered uterine fibroids or other health issues after using hair relaxers, you may be eligible for compensation.

At TorHoerman Law, we understand the impact of these health complications and are committed to advocating for consumer rights.

Our experienced hair relaxer lawyers can provide personalized guidance and support throughout the legal process.

If you trust us with your Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit, we will work tirelessly to help you seek justice and hold manufacturers accountable for their actions.

Contact us for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the Hair Straightener Lawsuit instantly.