Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Guide
- Last Updated: April 15th, 2024
Attorney Jessie Paluch, founder of TruLaw, has over 25 years of experience as a personal injury and mass tort attorney, and previously worked as an international tax attorney at Deloitte. Jessie collaborates with attorneys nationwide — enabling her to share reliable, up-to-date legal information with our readers.
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TruLaw does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us by using the chat on the bottom of this page. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.
Key takeaways:
- Plaintiffs allege that the chemicals in these products have caused serious health issues, including hormone-related cancers and reproductive problems.
- Recent studies have bolstered claims against hair relaxer products, linking their chemical components to various health risks.
- There is a call for stricter regulations and more transparent labeling on hair care products to ensure consumer safety.
Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Overview
On this page, we’ll discuss an overview of the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit, recent studies linking chemical hair treatments to various forms of cancer, potential Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit settlement amounts and payouts, and much more.
Intro to the Hair Relaxer Lawsuits
Are you concerned about the potential health risks associated with hair relaxer products?
Recent legal developments have linked these common beauty items to serious conditions.
The use of these harmful chemicals leads to an increased risk of developing serious conditions including but not limited to uterine, ovarian, or breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or other injuries to the reproductive system.
Diving into more detail, let’s explore the list of common chemicals in hair relaxers that you should be aware of:
- Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): This is an extremely corrosive substance that can cause burns and harm to the skin and eyes.
- Calcium Hydroxide (No-Lye Relaxers): It’s less irritating but can still lead to scalp damage if not used properly.
- Guanidine Carbonate (No-Lye Relaxers): This chemical combines with calcium hydroxide to form Guanidine Hydroxide, which effectively straightens hair but can also cause scalp irritations.
- Formaldehyde: Known for its relation to cancer, this is a preservative often found in some hair smoothing and straightening products.
- Ammonium Thioglycolate (Thio Relaxers): While not as harsh as sodium hydroxide, it can cause allergic reactions and skin conditions like dermatitis.
- Parabens: These preservatives are known endocrine disruptors associated with breast cancer risks.
- Phthalates: Particularly Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), are usually found in hair relaxer products.
Table of Contents
Lawsuit Updates
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April 2024 Updates:
The Hair Relaxer Lawsuit is currently active.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering a proposal to ban certain chemicals found in hair relaxers due to emerging evidence that these chemicals may pose cancer risks.
This proposed ban would affect hair relaxers containing formaldehyde and similar substances, which have been linked to higher risks of respiratory tract cancers and myeloid leukemias.
These products are also known to include phthalates and other chemicals that disrupt hormonal functions, potentially contributing to cancer development.
In response to these findings, legal actions have already commenced, with lawsuits filed against various manufacturers of hair straighteners and relaxers, including the major company L’Oréal.
Our law firm is actively taking on new clients for the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit.
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to immediately check if you are eligible to join the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
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April 2024 Updates:
The Hair Relaxer Lawsuit is actively progressing.
The recent filings to the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) showing an increase in the number of lawsuits to 8,380 a significant rise from the 8,334 reported as of March 1st.
These lawsuits have been initiated by individuals who claim to have suffered adverse health effects, including cancer, after using hair relaxer products.
The litigation centers around allegations that manufacturers did not properly inform consumers about the potential health risks of chemicals in hair relaxers.
The primary concern is that certain chemicals may contribute to the development of various health conditions.
Plaintiffs are seeking compensation for damages resulting from the use of these products.
For those who have used hair relaxers and are now experiencing health issues, legal recourse may be an option worth exploring.
Eligibility for participation in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit can be found through by using the chatbot feature on their website.
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March 2024 Updates:
The lawsuit concerning hair relaxers continues to progress.
According to the latest filings by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML), an additional 117 cases were incorporated into the Hair Relaxer Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) during February.
The JPML had previously reported a consolidation of 8,217 Hair Relaxer Lawsuits within the MDL as of February, with the numbers increasing to 8,334 by March 1st.
These lawsuits target several manufacturers, including L’Oreal, Softsheen-Carson (Optimum Relaxer), Dark & Lovely, Just For Me, Motions Hair, ORS Hair Care (Namaste Laboratories, LLC), and African Pride (Godrej Group), alleging that their hair relaxer products contain harmful chemicals that may significantly elevate the risk of various cancers.
Individuals who believe they or their loved ones have suffered health issues as a result of using these hair relaxers are encouraged to explore their legal options.
For immediate support and to find out if you qualify for the lawsuit, please utilize the chatbot feature available on this page.
The Hair Relaxer Lawsuit is ongoing.
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December 2023 Updates:
December 28th, 2023 Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
A recent study explored the link between the usage of chemical hair relaxers, which are commonly utilized by Black women in the United States, and the likelihood of developing uterine cancer.
The investigation tracked a cohort of 44,798 Black women from 1997 to 2019 and revealed that extensive use of hair relaxers (lasting 15 years or more, at a minimum of 5 times annually) was associated with a slightly elevated risk of uterine cancer.
To be more specific, among postmenopausal women, both moderate and heavy use of hair relaxers, as well as a duration of over 20 years of use regardless of frequency, demonstrated a heightened risk of uterine cancer.
There was no statistically significant connection found between the use of hair relaxers and the risk of uterine cancer among premenopausal women.
These findings imply that prolonged use of chemical hair relaxers could potentially be a risk factor for uterine cancer, especially among postmenopausal Black women.
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November 2023 Updates:
November 15th, 2023 Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
A federal judge, specifically U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland in Illinois, has permitted the majority of claims to proceed in a significant lawsuit alleging that chemical hair relaxer products produced by companies like L’Oreal USA and Revlon are the cause of cancer and other harm.
Judge Rowland rejected most of the companies’ contentions in their bid to dismiss the complaint within the multidistrict litigation, which encompasses over 8,000 lawsuits.
She determined that the plaintiffs had offered ample evidence to substantiate their accusations, which encompass claims of negligence, defective product design, and a failure to adequately caution customers about potential risks.
Of the 15 claims contained in the complaint, Rowland dismissed three entirely and a part of a fourth due to insufficient backing for the plaintiffs’ assertions of fraud.
These hair relaxer products, primarily marketed to women of color, include chemicals for permanently straightening textured hair.
Legal actions were instigated following a National Institutes of Health study published in October 2022, which found that women who used these products multiple times a year were more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer.
While L’Oreal had previously expressed confidence in the safety of its products, and Revlon stated its disbelief in the existence of scientific evidence linking chemical hair straighteners or relaxers to cancer, smaller cosmetics companies, including some headquartered in India, are also implicated in the lawsuits.
One of the lead attorneys representing the consumers declared that the court’s decision supports their contention that the products and the instructions provided by the companies are responsible for causing cancer.
November 1st, 2023 Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
The Plaintiff’s Steering Committee is pushing for an 11% set-aside from the total settlement or judgment in each case.
This split comprises 8% for work that benefits all parties involved and 3% for covering common benefit costs.
The motion also highlights unanimous support within the committee.
Nonetheless, these attorney fee percentages won’t impact victims’ compensation.
The primary focus remains on maximizing settlements for victims, which appears to be progressing effectively.
November, 2023 Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
In November 2023, the hair relaxer lawsuit saw significant developments.
The Plaintiff’s Leadership Committee (PLC) formally filed a status update with the Court, marking an essential step forward in this high-profile case.
Meanwhile, the number of pending lawsuits in the Illinois Multi-District Litigation (MDL) has surged to approximately 5,996.
As legal proceedings continue to intensify, we eagerly anticipate a ruling from the centralizing board on whether these individual cases will be condensed into a new class action lawsuit.
This litigation milestone could have substantial implications for all involved parties and create a precedent for future chemical hair product disputes.
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October 2023 Updates:
October 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is suggesting a prohibition on the inclusion of formaldehyde as an ingredient in hair relaxers, particularly in products designed for hair-smoothing and hair-straightening, which are commonly used by Black women.
Formaldehyde is a hazardous substance capable of causing irritation to the eyes, skin, lungs, and throat and has been associated with specific cancers, including myeloid leukemia.
The current FDA regulations do not mandate the pre-market approval of cosmetic products and their components, sparking concerns about the safety of these products.
Recent studies have illuminated the potential risks associated with chemical hair relaxers, revealing a heightened likelihood of uterine cancer among women who use such products.
Hair relaxers often contain endocrine disruptors that can disrupt the body’s hormone system, leading to a range of health issues, such as early puberty, fibroid tumors, infertility, and reduced fertility in women.
The FDA’s proposed prohibition follows concerns raised by congressional representatives and advocates regarding the safety of these products, particularly among Black women.
The intended date for implementing the ban is set for April.
Moreover, policies like the CROWN Act, which bars discrimination based on hair texture, have been gaining traction in numerous states to address concerns surrounding hair and societal norms.
October 1st, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
Judge Rowland recently issued Case Management Order No. 9 (CMO 9) to address the rapid increase in hair relaxer class action lawsuits.
This order establishes guidelines for the filing and handling of short-form complaints (SFC) by the numerous new plaintiffs participating in the MDL.
The surge in new chemical hair straightener lawsuits can be attributed to a bankruptcy judge’s order related to Revlon. This order mandates lawyers to file lawsuits in order to safeguard their claims against Revlon.
The first hair relaxer lawsuit was filed on October 21, 2022.
This lawsuit was significant because it was the first to legally challenge the safety of hair relaxers.
Key details of the lawsuit include:
- The lawsuit was filed against cosmetic companies.
- It was based on the scientific evidence linking hair relaxer usage and cancer risk.
- The lawsuit sought compensation for individuals who had developed cancer after using hair relaxers.
This lawsuit marked the beginning of legal action against manufacturers of hair relaxers.
Impact of the First Lawsuit
The first hair relaxer lawsuit had a significant impact.
It brought the issue of hair relaxer safety to the forefront and paved the way for further legal actions.
The impact of the lawsuit can be seen in several areas:
- It raised public awareness about the potential risks of using hair relaxers.
- It prompted further research into the safety of hair relaxers.
- It led to more lawsuits being filed against hair relaxer manufacturers.
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September 2023 Updates:
September 18th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
In the past three months, an additional 2,000 cases have joined the hair relaxer class action lawsuit.
At this rate, it is projected that the MDL will exceed 4,000 cases by the end of the year.
There is anticipation that this trend will persist and possibly even lead to the hair relaxer MDL becoming as large as the talcum powder MDL.
September 6th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
Throughout the past month, several noteworthy developments have come forth.
During a recent status conference presided over by Judge Rowland, a firm deadline of August 30, 2023, has been established for the submission of a joint written status report concerning the dismissal motions related to McBride, the defendant.
There was also debate at the conference regarding Federal Rule 26(a)(1) and 30 (b)(6), which involve expert witnesses and company testimonials.
Both parties were arguing that the other’s witness selection and testimonial strategies did not align with one of the federal statutes.
Additionally, Dabur International, the parent company of Namaste Laboratories and a prominent defendant in the hair relaxer lawsuit, switched its legal counsel from Kirkland & Ellis LLC with new attorneys from Baker & McKenzie LLP.
Earlier this month, Dermoviva Skin Essentials Inc. was removed from the class action, however, the possibility of its reinstatement is still under consideration.
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August 2023 Updates:
August 26th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
Judge Rowland has slated a discovery hearing for October 2nd, 2023.
August 21st, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
A woman from Brooklyn, Minnesota, has become a recent addition to the hair relaxer class action MDL.
The lawsuit alleges that between 1985 and 2011, the plaintiff used three chemical hair relaxer products: ORS Olive Oil, Just for Me, and S&B Botanicals.
In 2019, the plaintiff was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, which she attributes to the use of these hair relaxer products.
August 18th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
New hair relaxer cancer lawsuits can now be submitted directly to the class action MDL using an approved Short Form Complaint, as authorized by Judge Rowland.
This new process is expected to streamline and expedite the filing of such lawsuits, potentially resulting in a higher number of new filings in the MDL.
30 new cases have been added to the hair relaxer class action MDL over the previous month, bringing the total number of pending cases to 275.
August 1st, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
New hair relaxer cancer lawsuits can now be submitted directly to the class action MDL using an approved Short Form Complaint, as authorized by Judge Rowland.
This new process is expected to streamline and expedite the filing of such lawsuits, potentially resulting in a higher number of new filings in the MDL.
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July 2023 Updates:
July 18th 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
The MDL saw a significant increase in hair relaxer cancer lawsuits last month, with 87 new cases added, marking the highest monthly total since the start of the MDL.
This surge continues a steady upward trend in new case filings observed over the past four months.
In February, there were only 21 pending cases in the MDL, but currently, there are 236 pending cases.
July 5th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
Revlon provided an update on their ongoing bankruptcy proceedings and responded to the plaintiffs’ status report, submitted on June 30, 2023, before the MDL judge.
Despite being in bankruptcy, the significance of Revlon’s case lies in its possession of a substantial insurance policy to cover hair relaxer cancer lawsuits.
The company is responsible for various hair relaxer brands, including Crème of Nature, African Pride, French Perm, Fabulaxer, Revlon Professional, Revlon Realistic, Herbarich, and All Ways Natural Relaxer.
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June 2023 Updates:
June 8th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
Attorneys representing victims in federal hair relaxer lawsuits are urging the Court to reject a proposal by the product manufacturers to divide the discovery process, citing concerns about potential lengthy delays in the litigation.
Manufacturers of hair relaxer products, in response to mounting lawsuits, have requested the court to bifurcate discovery.
This would limit discovery to general causation information on the link between hair relaxers and cancer while staying all other discovery related to manufacturers’ liability, awareness of risks, and extent of damages.
June 5th, 2023, Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Update:
In a brief submitted on June 5th, plaintiffs underscored bifurcation’s potential to cause substantial delays in the litigation process, escalate costs significantly, and its track record of being “incredibly inefficient” in achieving a resolution or settlement.
Hair Relaxers and Links to Cancer
Numerous studies and mounting lawsuits have highlighted the potential link between the use of hair relaxers and an increased risk of developing certain types of cancers, including uterine and ovarian cancer.
Chemical Hair Relaxers: Uterine Cancer
Scientific research suggests a correlation between certain chemicals in hair relaxers and an increased risk of uterine cancer.
Lye-based relaxers, as well as no-lye alternatives that contain endocrine-disrupting compounds, pose potential health hazards.
These disruptive substances can interfere with the body’s hormonal system leading to significant adverse health effects such as uterine cancer.
Regular use of these products is particularly concerning for African American women who are disproportionately represented in related statistics.
The link between chemical hair straighteners or relaxers and higher rates of this type of malignancy adds another layer to the ongoing investigations into personal care product safety concerns.
Mounting evidence has resulted in numerous lawsuits being filed against cosmetic companies offering these suspect hair-relaxing products.
Hair Relaxer Can Cause Ovarian Cancer
Scientific research links consistent use of lye-based hair relaxers to a heightened risk of ovarian cancer.
Such products contain powerful alkaline chemicals, like sodium hydroxide.
Their main purpose is to permanently break down the protein structure in curly hair, providing a smoother texture. However, these agents aren’t exclusive to lye-based treatments.
No-lye relaxers also carry harmful ingredients that pose serious health threats.
For instance, calcium hydroxide and guanidine carbonate merge to form guanidine hydroxide once applied – an alkaline as corrosive as those found in lye variants.
These substances penetrate deep into the scalp with each application, potentially tying them to various complications beyond hair damage like scalp burns and irreversible alopecia — ovarian cancer being one severe implication regularly investigated by experts across health and cosmetic fields today.
Thousands of black women are coming forward with claims that prolonged use of these chemical hair products has directly contributed to their cancer diagnoses.
The specific chemicals in hair relaxers, such as endocrine-disrupting compounds, are now under scrutiny for their significant adverse health effects.
Stay informed about this critical issue impacting countless individuals who’ve trusted these products as part of their beauty routines.
Minorities Affected at Higher Rate
Rates of these types of cancers are significantly higher among black women and other minority groups.
These disturbing revelations have sparked outrage and concern amongst users worldwide, pushing many into legal battles.
There’s an ever-growing body of evidence suggesting lye-based relaxers significantly increase cancer risk, while even “no-lye” options contain harmful substances associated with detrimental health outcomes.
African American and Latina women have filed lawsuits alleging that regular application of these straightening agents has directly contributed to their diagnosis of ovarian or uterine cancer.
Latest News on the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
The latest news on the hair relaxer lawsuit reveals that there has been a surge in new lawsuits against hair relaxer companies due to the discovery of new research linking the use of these products to uterine cancer.
Major beauty companies like L’Oreal and Revlon are under scrutiny and their cases are allowed to proceed as per a recent ruling by a U.S federal judge.
Here are some key updates on the hair relaxer lawsuit:
- A surge in new lawsuits: This is due to the discovery of new evidence suggesting that the chemicals in hair relaxers can cause uterine cancer.
- Major beauty companies under scrutiny: Lawsuits against L’Oreal and Revlon are proceeding, as ruled by a U.S. federal judge.
- No class action lawsuit: Currently, there is no class action lawsuit for hair relaxers.
Surge in New Lawsuits
New scientific research has found a link between the chemicals in hair relaxers and uterine cancer.
This has led to an explosion of new lawsuits against hair relaxer companies.
Women who have used these products for long periods are at an increased risk of developing uterine cancer.
Major findings from the research include:
- The chemicals in hair relaxers can cause uterine cancer.
- Long-term use of these products increases the risk of developing this type of cancer.
- The new research has led to a surge in lawsuits against hair relaxer companies.
This new evidence has fueled a wave of legal action against manufacturers of hair relaxers.
Major Beauty Companies Under Scrutiny
Lawsuits against major beauty companies like L’Oreal and Revlon are proceeding.
A U.S. federal judge has allowed the majority of claims in these cases to move forward.
The major developments in these cases include:
- A U.S. federal judge has allowed the majority of claims to move forward.
- These lawsuits claim that chemical hair relaxer products sold by these companies can cause uterine cancer.
- The decision by the judge has paved the way for further litigation against these companies.
Major corporations are facing increased legal challenges due to the harmful effects of their hair relaxer products.
One significant update was the FDA’s proposal in October 2023 to ban specific ingredients found in hair relaxers, which has only amplified the existing lawsuits against manufacturers.
This shift represents mounting pressure on manufacturers who have allegedly been aware of – yet failed to disclose – potential health risks caused by phthalates present in their hair relaxers.
Recent lawsuit filings also indicate that individuals are no longer just seeking compensation for medical costs associated with treating cancers linked with these products.
In addition, individuals are now demanding punitive damages for losses suffered due to misrepresentation and negligence on the part of these large corporations.
As more developments unfold each day, we must stay vigilant about understanding our rights and options when it comes to filing a claim regarding any injury potentially caused by hair relaxers or similar treatments.
Hair Relaxer Lawsuits: Past and Present
This section includes notable cases such as the Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits that stirred up public awareness of potential risks posed by these cosmetic products.
We also shed light on the legal aspects concerning these suits, like what constitutes the statute of limitations for filing a hair relaxer lawsuit.
Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits
Reports of hair relaxer cancer lawsuits have been surging, with victims demanding justice.
These are some of the recent notable cases:
- Ongoing hair relaxer cancer lawsuits highlight the potential risks associated with using these products, with many consumers now seeking legal action.
- Product liability lawsuits often involve individuals who have used hair relaxer treatments for extended periods and subsequently get diagnosed with cancer.
- A significant lawsuit in 2022 alleged that hair straightening products caused uterine cancer, leading to an increase in similar lawsuits across the country.
- Claims in these suits often suggest that chemical hair relaxers may contribute to various health problems, including ovarian and uterine cancers.
- L’oreal USA, one of the major hair relaxer manufacturers, is frequently cited as a defendant in these cases due to its popularity and widespread use.
Statute of Limitations: Hair Relaxer Cancer Cases
Every state establishes its own statute of limitations for hair relaxer lawsuits.
This legal time limit can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, typically ranging anywhere between 2 to 6 years.
The clock usually starts the day a victim discovers or should have discovered their injury or illness, such as cancer, which they believe resulted from exposure to harmful chemicals in hair relaxer products.
Understanding the specific statute of limitations in your state is crucial because if you attempt to file a claim after this period has expired, courts will almost certainly dismiss it without reviewing the merits of your case.
Therefore, timely action is essential when considering a lawsuit against hair relaxer manufacturers.
Contact Us About a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
If you’ve suffered adverse health effects due to hair relaxer products, contact TruLaw today for a no-obligation consultation.
Our team will connect you with a dedicated Hair Relaxer Attorney within our network of legal partners to provide you with the strongest legal representation for your claim.
We are fully committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Hair Relaxer Settlement and Payout Amounts
Hair relaxer lawsuits have seen substantial payouts depending on the severity of the disease, the impact on the individual, and other influencing factors.
The settlement amounts can vary greatly, but it’s estimated that they can range anywhere from $100,000 to $1,500,000.
Here’s an outline of potential payout amounts:
- Minor Side Effects (Hair loss, scalp irritation): $100,000 – $200,000
- Major Side Effects (Hormonal problems, skin problems): $200,000 – $500,000
- Cancer (Breast, Uterine, Ovarian): $500,000 – $1,500,000
In November 2023, the Plaintiff’s Leadership Committee (PLC) formally filed a status update with the Court, marking an essential step forward in this high-profile case.
Meanwhile, the number of pending lawsuits in the Illinois Multi-District Litigation (MDL) has surged to approximately 5,996.
As legal proceedings continue to intensify, we eagerly anticipate a ruling from the centralizing board on whether these individual cases will be condensed into a new class action lawsuit.
This litigation milestone could have substantial implications for all involved parties and create a precedent for future chemical hair product disputes.
Advancements & Developments in the Hair Relaxer Litigation
Explore the major strides within the hair relaxer litigation, including pivotal court outcomes, a growing number of cases, and the recent entry of new law firms joining this critical legal battle.
We’ll discuss how these developments impact potential settlements for victims who’ve suffered from harmful effects linked to hair relaxers.
Revlon Bankruptcy
Revlon Inc. recently declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy while contending with a flood of new lawsuits.
These legal battles surround allegations that the company’s hair relaxer products have been linked to cancer in thousands of consumers.
Despite transferring ownership to creditors and eliminating shareholders as part of their April 2023 emergence from bankruptcy, Revlon holds continued liability for these claims.
The company does maintain a substantial insurance policy intended to cover litigation costs related to these ongoing hair relaxer lawsuits, even amid its financial restructuring process.
New MDL Management Order
A fresh Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Management Order has been enacted, making waves in the realm of hair relaxer litigation.
Specifically, this directive facilitates the filing of new hair relaxer cancer lawsuits straight into the class action MDL.
Moreover, this means that plaintiffs alleging injury from these chemical products can now utilize an authorized Short Form Complaint.
This form expedites the submission process within the MDL.
The pivotal MDL consolidates all issues regarding liability for hair relaxer product cases across federal courts.
It also provides a centralized location – Chicago’s Northern District of Illinois – for these proceedings to take place under unified management.
Moreover, it offers direction for direct filings related to ongoing cases against manufacturers and distributors alleged to make or sell harmful hair chemicals.
Hair Relaxer MDL Adds 2,000 New Cases in 3 Months
A significant surge in the number of lawsuits related to hair relaxers has been observed recently.
Specifically, the Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) concerning these cases added an astounding 2,000 new cases within a span of just three months.
The MDL is now expected to exceed more than 4,000 cases in total due to this rapid increase in claims regarding carcinogenic harm associated with chemical hair products.
This large influx emphasizes the serious concerns being raised about the safety and health implications of using such beauty products regularly.
How to File a Hair Relaxer Claim
Filing a hair relaxer claim involves several crucial steps.
These steps are designed to help individuals who’ve used chemical hair products protect their rights and potentially receive financial compensation for any harm caused by these products:
- Consult with a Lawyer: Engage in dialogue with an attorney who specializes in hair relaxer lawsuits. They can guide you through the process and evaluate your case’s strengths.
- Collect Evidence: Compile all documents related to your use of hair relaxers, including purchase receipts, medical records documenting health issues, or photographic evidence showing changes in your health after using these products.
- File a Short-Form Complaint: Following the judge’s order on August 3, 2023, new hair relaxer cancer lawsuits can be filed directly in the class action MDL using the approved Short Form Complaint.
- Stay Informed About Proceedings: Keep tabs on ongoing developments in the class action lawsuit, particularly concerning potential hair relaxer settlements or verdicts that may influence your claim.
- Be Prepared for Legal Proceedings: If your case proceeds to trial or settlement talks, make sure to cooperate fully with your attorney and be ready to testify if needed.
MDL Panel Meets to Discuss Hair Relaxer Lawsuits
A significant development in the hair relaxer litigation landscape took place as the MDL (Multi-District Litigation) panel met to review current and prospective lawsuits.
Tasked with overseeing and streamlining complex litigations related to hair relaxer products, the panel’s meeting is a pivotal event for all involved parties.
They analyzed case details, discussed potential resolutions, and considered implications for future claims.
The meeting helped shape the direction and strategies of new cases emerging in this rapidly evolving legal field.
Essential decisions made at these meetings can affect eligibility rules, compensation amounts, or even influence how quickly settlements are reached.
This update marks an important step forward in holding manufacturers accountable for the alleged health ramifications of chemical hair products.
Contact Us About a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
If you’ve suffered adverse health effects due to hair relaxer products, contact TruLaw today for a no-obligation consultation.
Our team will connect you with a dedicated Hair Relaxer Attorney within our network of legal partners to provide you with the strongest legal representation for your claim.
We are fully committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Hair Relaxer Lawsuit: Updates & Conclusion
As of the latest updates in November 2023, the hair relaxer lawsuits are progressing with most plaintiff’s claims being allowed to proceed.
The multidistrict litigation (MDL) concerning these lawsuits is expected to grow as new cases are added.
Here are the key updates about the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit:
- Denial of Motion to Dismiss: The motion to dismiss the lawsuits was denied, allowing most of the plaintiffs’ claims to move forward.
- Potential Link between Hair Relaxers and Cancer: A recent study has confirmed a link between hair relaxers and cancer, further strengthening the plaintiffs’ cases.
- Consolidation into a New MDL: All hair relaxer cancer lawsuits have been consolidated into a new MDL class action litigation in the Northern District of Illinois.
Denial of Motion to Dismiss
The motion to dismiss the hair relaxer lawsuits was denied, meaning that the majority of the plaintiff’s claims were allowed to proceed.
This is a significant step in the legal process, as it means that the court has found that the plaintiffs have sufficiently stated a claim for which relief can be granted.
Key points to note about the denial of a motion to dismiss:
- This development indicates that the court has found merit in the plaintiffs’ claims.
- It also means that the defendants will need to prepare a defense to these claims.
- The denial of the motion to dismiss is not a determination of guilt or innocence, but rather an indication that the plaintiffs’ claims are legally sufficient to move forward to the next stage of the legal process.
Hair Relaxers and Cancer: Potential Link
A recent study has confirmed a link between hair relaxers and cancer, further strengthening the plaintiffs’ cases.
This scientific evidence is crucial in substantiating the plaintiffs’ claims and could potentially influence the outcome of the lawsuit.
Key points to note about the link between hair relaxers and cancer:
- The study provides scientific evidence supporting the plaintiffs’ claims that hair relaxers can cause cancer.
- This development could significantly impact the defendants’ defense strategy and potentially influence the outcome of the lawsuit.
- The confirmation of the link between hair relaxers and cancer highlights the importance of product safety and consumer protection.
Consolidation into a New MDL
All hair relaxer cancer lawsuits have been consolidated into new MDL class action litigation in the Northern District of Illinois.
This consolidation is expected to streamline the legal process and ensure consistency in the handling of these cases.
Key points to note about the consolidation into a new MDL:
- The consolidation is expected to streamline the legal process by allowing similar lawsuits to be handled collectively.
- This development ensures consistency in the handling of these cases and prevents contradictory verdicts.
- The consolidation into an MDL also allows for more efficient sharing of resources among the plaintiffs’ attorneys.
Concluding Updates on Hair Relaxer Lawsuits
In summary, the hair relaxer lawsuits are progressing, with most plaintiffs’ claims being allowed to proceed.
If you’ve suffered adverse health effects due to hair relaxer products, contact TruLaw today for a no-obligation consultation.
Our team will connect you with a dedicated Hair Relaxer Attorney within our network of legal partners to provide you with the strongest legal representation for your claim.
We are fully committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the latest update in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?
The latest update in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit is that Judge Mary Rowland has denied the defendant’s motion to dismiss most claims in the class action, allowing the negligence, strict liability, and failure to warn claims to proceed.
Here are the key takeaways regarding the latest development in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit:
- Judge Mary Rowland’s decision: The judge has allowed most claims to advance while dismissing some, such as fraud-based claims.
- Consolidation of Lawsuits: All hair relaxer cancer lawsuits have been consolidated into a new MDL in the Northern District of Illinois.
- The FDA and Hair Relaxer Products: The FDA has proposed a ban on formaldehyde in hair relaxer products, indicating the potential risks associated with these products.
If you’ve suffered adverse health effects due to hair relaxer products, contact TruLaw today for a no-obligation consultation.
Our team will connect you with a dedicated Hair Relaxer Attorney within our network of legal partners to provide you with the strongest legal representation for your claim.
We are fully committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
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What is a hair relaxer lawsuit?
A hair relaxer lawsuit is a legal action taken against manufacturers of hair relaxer products.
Here is a detailed look at some key aspects of hair relaxer lawsuits:
- Causes of Hair Relaxer Lawsuits: Plaintiffs allege that hair relaxer products contain harmful chemicals that cause health problems, such as cancer and fertility issues.
- Consolidation into Class Action MDL: This allows multiple cases from different federal courts to be centralized, simplifying the legal process.
- Potential Settlement Value: The potential settlement value for these lawsuits is uncertain.
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How are new hair relaxer lawsuits related to uterine cancer?
Nearly 60 lawsuits have been filed against L’Oreal, alleging that the brand’s hair relaxers have caused cancer.
These hair relaxers typically contain multiple chemicals, a number of which are identified as endocrine disruptors.
These chemicals often found in hair relaxers are:
- Preservatives such as parabens
- Stabilizing agents like formaldehyde
- Plasticizers including phthalates
- Various other chemical compounds
These substances can mimic or interfere with the body’s hormones, potentially leading to an increased risk of hormone-related cancers such as uterine cancer.
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Who files these federal hair relaxers lawsuits?
Federal lawsuits against manufacturers of hair relaxers, such as those filed against L’Oreal, are typically initiated by individuals who have allegedly suffered adverse health effects, such as cancer, purportedly due to the use of these products.
These claimants often include:
- Consumers: Individuals who have used hair relaxers and subsequently developed health issues like uterine cancer.
- Legal Guardians or Family Members: In cases where the affected individual is unable to file a lawsuit themselves, their legal guardians or family members may file the lawsuit on their behalf.
- Estates of Deceased Individuals: If the use of hair relaxers is believed to have contributed to an individual’s death, the estate of the deceased can file a lawsuit.
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When was the first Hair Relaxer Lawsuit was registered?
The first hair relaxer lawsuit was registered in October 2022.
This initial lawsuit was filed by a woman from Georgia, Keaira G., who claimed that hair relaxers caused her uterine fibroids.
She reported that her first exposure to hair relaxers occurred in 1994 when she was six years old, either at hair salons or through the use of at-home kits.
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