The Growing Legal Battle Over Hair Relaxers and Dyes: What Salon Professionals and Consumers Need to Know

Introduction: In recent years, hair care products, particularly chemical hair relaxers and dyes, have come under intense legal scrutiny. A wave of lawsuits alleges that these products, long marketed as safe and essential beauty solutions, are linked to severe health risks, including cancer and other hormonal disorders. The implications of these lawsuits extend beyond the courtroom, affecting industry professionals, salon owners, and consumers alike. As the legal battle unfolds, it is essential for those in the hair care industry to stay informed and practice due diligence when selecting products. This article delves into the latest developments, examines the scientific research backing these claims, and highlights what salon professionals and consumers need to consider moving forward.

The Surge of Legal Actions: A Growing Crisis in the Beauty Industry

As of early 2025, nearly 9,500 federal lawsuits have been filed against major cosmetic companies, including L’Oréal and Revlon. Additionally, over 300 lawsuits have been initiated at the state level. The plaintiffs, most of whom are Black women, claim that prolonged exposure to chemical hair relaxers has led to serious health conditions such as uterine, ovarian, and endometrial cancers.

These lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Illinois, presided over by U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland. MDL consolidation is a legal mechanism that streamlines pretrial proceedings for cases that share common factual questions. This allows the court to manage thousands of lawsuits more efficiently, ensuring a uniform approach to evidence, witness testimonies, and expert evaluations.

The Scientific Studies Fueling These Claims

The foundation of these lawsuits lies in recent scientific research, particularly a groundbreaking study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2022. The study, which analyzed data from over 33,000 women, found that those who frequently used chemical hair straighteners (more than four times a year) had more than double the risk of developing uterine cancer compared to those who did not use such products.

The study also indicated that approximately 60% of participants who reported using chemical relaxers identified as Black women. This disproportionate use raises significant concerns about racial and gender disparities in exposure to harmful chemicals within the beauty industry. While correlation does not necessarily imply causation, the consistency of findings across multiple studies has led to increased concern among health professionals and regulators.

Corporate Responses and Legal Maneuvering

In response to these allegations, major cosmetic manufacturers have denied any link between their products and cancer. Companies such as L’Oréal and Revlon have filed motions to dismiss the lawsuits, arguing that the claims lack definitive scientific proof.

However, Judge Rowland has largely rejected these dismissal efforts, allowing both individual personal injury claims and a proposed class-action lawsuit to proceed. The class-action suit aims to secure financial compensation for consumers who purchased these products without knowledge of the potential health risks. Plaintiffs argue that, had they been aware of these dangers, they would not have used the products at all.

A Look at Historical Precedents in Hair Product Litigation

This is not the first time hair care products have faced legal scrutiny. In the 1990s, the Rio Hair Naturalizer System was sued after consumers reported scalp burns, hair loss, and severe allergic reactions. The company faced multiple lawsuits, leading to the product’s removal from the market.

Similarly, Brazilian Blowout treatments came under fire in the 2000s when it was revealed that they contained high levels of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Regulatory agencies, including OSHA and the FDA, intervened, issuing hazard alerts and imposing stricter labeling requirements. These past cases highlight the importance of rigorous product testing and the potential consequences when manufacturers fail to prioritize consumer safety.

The Role of Regulatory Agencies and Industry Oversight

Government agencies such as the FDA and OSHA play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of cosmetic products. OSHA has issued warnings about the dangers of formaldehyde exposure in hair smoothing treatments, emphasizing the need for adequate ventilation and protective measures in salons.

While the FDA does regulate cosmetic products, its oversight is often criticized as being too lenient. Unlike drugs, cosmetics do not require pre-market approval, meaning companies can introduce products to the market without rigorous safety testing. This regulatory gap has prompted calls for stricter oversight and increased consumer protections.

Implications for the Hair Care Industry

These lawsuits could have far-reaching effects on the hair care industry. If the courts rule in favor of the plaintiffs, manufacturers may face billions in damages, forcing them to reformulate their products or withdraw them from the market altogether.

Salon owners and hair professionals should prepare for shifts in consumer behavior. With heightened awareness of potential health risks, clients may demand safer alternatives, such as keratin treatments free from harmful chemicals or natural hair styling options. Salons that adapt to these changing preferences will likely maintain a competitive edge.

The Importance of Due Diligence in Product Selection

For salon professionals, ensuring that products are safe is not just a legal and ethical obligation—it’s also essential for client trust and business reputation. Conducting thorough research on ingredients, verifying compliance with safety regulations, and choosing products from reputable brands can mitigate risks.

Some key steps include:

  • Reviewing ingredient lists and identifying known carcinogens or endocrine disruptors
  • Checking for safety certifications from organizations such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG)
  • Keeping up with industry news and regulatory updates
  • Consulting with dermatologists or trichologists for expert opinions

The Path Forward: Embracing Safer Alternatives

As awareness grows, more companies are investing in safer, non-toxic hair care solutions. Organic hair dyes, plant-based relaxers, and heat-free styling techniques are gaining popularity. Brands that prioritize transparency and sustainability are leading the way in redefining industry standards.

The shift toward cleaner beauty products benefits not just individual consumers but the industry as a whole. By embracing innovation and prioritizing health, salons and hair professionals can offer services that align with the evolving demands of their clientele.

Conclusion: Staying Informed and Proactive

The lawsuits against major cosmetic companies serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in the beauty industry. For salon owners, hair professionals, and consumers alike, staying informed about product safety and regulatory changes is crucial.

If you found this article helpful, be sure to explore more industry insights and updates here at The Hair Society.

Sources:

  1. Lawsuit Legal News. (2024). Hair Straightener Uterine Cancer Lawsuit. Retrieved from: https://lawsuitlegalnews.com/hair-straightener-uterine-cancer-lawsuit
  2. Sokolove Law. (2024). Chemical Hair Straightener Lawsuit. Retrieved from: https://www.sokolovelaw.com/product-liability/chemical-hair-straightener
  3. Reuters. (2024). Hair Relaxer Class Action Over Reimbursement Can Move Forward. Retrieved from: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/hair-relaxer-class-action-over-reimbursement-products
  4. NAACP. (2024). NAACP and Singleton Schreiber Champion Justice for Women of Color. Retrieved from: https://naacp.org/articles/naacp-and-singleton-schreiber