The US Food and Drug Administration is proposing a ban on hair straightening products due to their link to health issues.
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As reported by CNN, a proposed rule by the agency says that it would specifically ban hair straightening products that contain formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing chemicals such as methylene and glycol. For years, scientists have associated several health issues linked to the continuous usage of hair straightening chemicals with specific hormone-related cancers like ovarian and breast cancers. These diagnoses primarily affect Black and Latina women, and 50 percent of the products containing chemicals are marketed to Black women.
The FDA proposed that the chemical products are “linked to short-term adverse health effects” such as breathing problems. The chemicals used in specific cosmetic products are applied to human hair and a hair straightening tool. Earlier this year, lawmakers Reps. Ayanna Pressley and Shontel Brown discussed the problems with hair straightening chemicals in a letter to the agency. Both women called the proposal a win for public health as it significantly impacts the health of Black women.
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“The FDA’s proposal to ban these harmful chemicals in hair straighteners and relaxers is a win for public health – especially the health of Black women who are disproportionately put at risk by these products as a result of systemic racism and anti-Black hair sentiment. Regardless of how we wear our hair, we should be allowed to show up in the world without putting our health at risk. I applaud the FDA for being responsive to our calls and advancing a rule that will help prevent manufacturers from making a profit at the expense of our health,”
The outlet also reported about a Missouri resident, Jenny Mitchell, who filed a lawsuit against L’Oreal and other companies and accused them of continuous use of their hair straightening products caused her uterine cancer. She ultimately had a hysterectomy in 2018 after her cancer diagnosis.
Mitchell said she had used the products since she was eight and had used them for over 22 years. L’Oreal said in a statement that they stand by their products and that the “health, wellness, and safety of all our consumers” is their highest priority.
Chemical relaxers are widely used to straighten curly or kinky hair. They work by breaking down the bonds that give hair its natural curl pattern. However, chemical relaxers can also damage hair and scalp, and there is growing evidence that they may also have other health risks.
Here are some of the risks associated with using chemical relaxers:
Hair damage: Chemical relaxers can make hair weak, dry, and brittle. This can lead to breakage, split ends, and hair loss.
Scalp irritation: Chemical relaxers can irritate the scalp, causing redness, itching, and burning. In some cases, they can also cause chemical burns.
Skin irritation: Chemical relaxers can also irritate the skin, especially around the hairline.
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the chemicals in relaxers. Allergic reactions can range from mild (such as rash and hives) to severe (such as swelling of the face and throat).
