How to File A Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

Written By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

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.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and legal experts at TruLaw and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Jessie Paluch, you can do so here.

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:

  • Hair relaxer cancer lawsuits are mainly filed by Black women who allege that their use of chemical hair straighteners has led to cancer diagnoses, especially uterine and ovarian cancers.
  • Investigations reveal harmful chemicals in many hair relaxers, some of which are linked to increased risks of certain cancers; this evidence is fueling ongoing legal actions against manufacturers.
  • The MDL process helps manage numerous lawsuits more efficiently and establishes consistent pretrial proceedings.

An Overview of Filing A Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

On this page, we’ll discuss the steps for filing a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit, an overview of the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit, how to choose a Hair Relaxer lawyer, and much more.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuits: Key Things to Consider

Navigating the legal landscape after a cancer diagnosis linked to hair relaxer use can be daunting.

Recent litigation has uncovered potential connections between certain chemical hair straighteners and cancer risks.

How to File A Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

Here are key points to consider when filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit:

  • Consultation with a specialized attorney
  • Determining the validity of your claim
  • Filing your laws

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.

Table of Contents

Overview of Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits

The landscape of hair relaxer cancer lawsuits is dominated by claims from thousands of Black women who assert that their diagnoses, including uterine and ovarian cancers, are directly linked to the prolonged use of chemical hair relaxers.

These lawsuits present a critical challenge to companies accused of selling dangerous beauty products without adequate warnings about the health risks associated with their usage, prompting an urgent reevaluation of industry safety standards.

Thousands of Black women claim hair relaxers caused their cancer

Claims are mounting as Black women come forward with serious allegations against hair relaxer products.

They assert that the chemicals within these straighteners have led to a worrying diagnosis of cancer, particularly uterine and breast cancer.

With studies now backing up these concerns, the stage is set for a legal battle that could bring about significant changes in the beauty industry.

Many of these women were diagnosed with uterine cancer after frequent use of hair relaxers, which they believed were safe.

This has not only prompted individual lawsuits but spurred on class action suits where plaintiffs are seeking justice for their suffering and systemic change to protect future generations from similar harm.

The link between hair relaxers and increased risk of cancer is at the forefront of this litigation wave, calling into question longstanding practices surrounding beauty products tailored to Black women’s hair care routines.

Reuters investigations reveal harmful chemicals in hair relaxers

Reuters investigations have brought to light disturbing findings about hair relaxers, frequently used by women who seek permanently straightened hair.

These popular hair products contain toxic chemicals that have been associated with a higher risk of developing uterine and ovarian cancer.

Studies highlight the danger, especially for those who apply these treatments several times a year, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution among consumers.

The use of lye-based hair relaxers has come under scrutiny after links were established between their consistent application and an increased likelihood of ovarian cancer diagnosis.

This connection poses significant concerns as countless individuals rely on such products to manage their textured locks.

The alarm raised by Reuters’ reports emphasizes the urgent need for regulatory oversight and more transparent product labeling in the beauty industry.

Hair Relaxer Class Action Lawsuits

Class action legal battles are intensifying, as numerous Black women join forces in a unified claim, alleging that the use of chemical hair relaxers has led to cancer development.

These federal hair relaxer lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) framework, designed to efficiently manage lawsuits filed across multiple jurisdictions and foster cohesive pretrial proceedings.

Plaintiffs aiming to add new cases must undergo a direct filing process, ensuring their claims align with the current MDL structure.

Amidst this surge of activity, recent developments may influence both existing and upcoming hair relaxer cancer cases, shaping the trajectory of this significant litigious event.

Current status and updates

Current Status and Updates of Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits

  • Direct Filing in MDL: New cases of hair relaxer cancer can now be filed directly into the multidistrict litigation (MDL). The streamlined process began on August 4, 2023, with a short-form complaint system making it easier for plaintiffs to join the class action lawsuit.
  • Nationwide Legal Action: Courts across the United States are becoming battlegrounds for these lawsuits. This national spread showcases the severity and reach of the issue as more people come to light with similar claims against brands like L’Oréal.
  • Streamlined Legal Process: A specific directive is aiding the swift integration of new lawsuit filings into the class action MDL. This effort is designed to make sure individuals affected by hair straightening products get a fair chance at legal recourse without unnecessary delays.
  • Health Risks Acknowledgment: Lawsuits have cited severe illnesses like uterine cancer resulting from chemical hair straighteners. Defendants include prominent cosmetic brands that may not have adequately warned about potential dangers linked to their products.
  • Rising Plaintiff Numbers: As information spreads, there is an increasing number of people who developed uterine cancer after frequent use of hair relaxers joining the lawsuits. They seek accountability from companies that sell these potentially harmful products.
  • Facilitation Measures: The judicial system has established measures to efficiently manage lawsuits filed around this issue. These measures aim at handling cases more effectively without compromising each plaintiff’s opportunity for a thorough review.

Recent Developments: Chemical Hair Product Litigations

Recent developments in hair relaxer cancer litigation have surged as more plaintiffs come forward with allegations.

In light of these events, here’s a rundown of the significant updates:

  • August 4, 2023: A milestone occurred with the judge’s approval of a short-form complaint, which simplifies the process for filing new hair relaxer lawsuits within the multidistrict litigation (MDL).
  • Lawyers are now able to directly file claims on behalf of individuals affected by hair relaxer products, streamlining their inclusion in the class action MDL.
  • Credible studies have reinforced suspicions regarding hair straightening chemicals, confirming an association between frequent use of hair relaxers and increased risk of uterine cancer.
  • The national institutes of health study developed significant data contributing to understanding how chemical hair relaxers impact health risks.
  • Hair relaxer plaintiffs are increasingly seeking legal expertise from specialized law firms to navigate these complex product liability claims.
  • Law firms across the country are reporting a surge in inquiries from potential clients about filing chemical hair straightener lawsuits due to growing awareness.
  • With more attention drawn to this issue, advocates for safer beauty products are intensifying their push for recalls on harmful chemical hair relaxer products.

Harmful Chemicals in Hair Relaxers

Recent studies have suggested a troubling link between hair relaxer use and an increased risk of uterine and ovarian cancer, highlighting concerns over dangerous chemicals present in these products.

Among such substances are endocrine disruptors like phthalates, which have been scrutinized by agencies including the EPA due to their potential health effects.

To compound matters, some hair relaxers contain formaldehyde-releasing chemicals, which can pose further risks to users’ health.

Key Offenders: The World Health Organization has identified certain compounds within hair relaxers as potentially carcinogenic.

  • Chemical Spotlight
  • Phthalates (potential endocrine disruptors)
  • Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP)
  • Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
  • Formaldehyde releasers

The pervasive presence of these harmful agents underlines the urgency for more stringent regulation and consumer

Link to uterine and ovarian cancer

Recent studies have uncovered a worrying connection between the chemicals in hair relaxers and an increased risk for cancers affecting the female reproductive system.

The data suggests that women who regularly use hair relaxers could face a heightened chance of developing uterine or ovarian cancer.

These findings are particularly concerning given that hair relaxers are commonly used by many seeking to manage their natural hairstyles.

Chemicals known as endocrine disruptors, found within both lye-based and no-lye hair relaxers, are at the center of this health concern.

Their presence is linked not only to uterine fibroids but also raises red flags for more serious conditions like uterine cancer and ovarian tumors.

Given these risks, individuals with a history of using these products may be eligible for pursuing legal action through hair relaxer litigation, especially if they’ve been diagnosed with related cancers.

EPA and DINPs

The EPA has sounded the alarm on chemicals like DINP in hair relaxers, due to their connection with serious health issues such as hormone disruption and potential cancer risks.

This troubling association is not going unnoticed; it’s stirring up quite a storm, leading more individuals to take legal action and file hair relaxer lawsuits.

As reports of the chemical being linked to uterine and ovarian cancer surface, consumers are growing increasingly concerned about what they’re applying to their bodies.

Calls for tighter controls on DINP are echoing through the halls of regulatory agencies, sparking discussions around heightened regulations.

The beauty industry is under pressure as both scientists and lawmakers push for greater transparency regarding ingredients that could compromise consumer safety.

With such high stakes, understanding how these substances can impact our health has never been more critical—especially for products designed specifically for certain skin and hair types known to affect largely female populations at risk of female reproductive system cancer.

Filing a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

To initiate a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit, it’s essential to comprehend the legal landscape marked by unique statutes of limitation that dictate the timeframe within which you must file your claim.

Statute of limitations

Time is of the essence when considering a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit.

The law sets specific time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for individuals to file their claims.

This period varies by state but typically ranges from one to six years from either the date of diagnosis or the realization that an injury might be connected to a product like hair relaxers.

Missing this crucial deadline could bar you from pursuing compensation entirely.

Acting swiftly ensures that your right to seek justice isn’t compromised by these legal time constraints.

If you believe hair relaxers have impacted your health, consulting with experienced hair relaxer lawyers can help determine how much time you have left to initiate legal action.

They understand the urgency and will assist in promptly preparing and filing your lawsuit within this allotted timeframe, maximizing your chances of holding responsible parties accountable for any harm caused.

Gathering evidence and medical records

Gathering the right evidence and medical records is a crucial step in filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit.

The following documents may contribute toward your claim relevant documents that support your claim

  1. Cancer Diagnosis Information: Secure a copy of your official diagnosis from your healthcare provider. This should include details about the type of cancer, such as uterine or ovarian cancer, and any notes on its potential link to chemical exposure.
  2. Medical Treatment Records: Gather all records of treatments you’ve undergone since your diagnosis. These documents show the extent of your medical journey and tie it to the hair relaxer’s alleged effects.
  3. Receipts for Hair Relaxer Products: Collect receipts or proof of purchase for every hair relaxer product you’ve used. This helps establish a history of use and can tie specific brands to your health issues.
  4. Photographic Evidence: If possible, take photos of the products used along with any visible physical changes or damages that occurred post-use.
  5. Timeline Documentation: Create a timeline documenting when you started using hair relaxers, noting frequency and duration up until the point your health concerns began.
  6. Witness Statements: Obtain statements from friends or family members who can attest to your usage of these products and any observed health changes.
  7. Expert Medical Opinions: Seek out opinions from medical experts who can speak on the potential harms caused by chemicals in hair relaxers and their link to cancer development.
  8. Healthcare Expenses Records: Compile all financial records related to your medical care including bills, insurance claims, and out-of-pocket expenses which reflect the economic impact of your condition.
  9. Allergy Tests or Dermatological Reports (if applicable): Include any tests that may have shown allergic reactions or skin issues possibly related to hair relaxer use.
  10. Correspondences with Manufacturers: Add any communication you may have had with hair relaxer companies regarding concerns about their products’ safety or the side effects experienced.

Medical Monitoring Class Action

The pursuit of a Medical Monitoring Class Action stems from the need for ongoing health surveillance following exposure to potentially carcinogenic chemicals found in hair relaxers.

This legal action is pivotal, as those affected seek recompense to cover future medical evaluations imperative for early cancer detection.

A court hearing addressing the class action motion is imminent, with notable resistance from defendants challenging the move towards a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL).

For individuals aiming to safeguard their well-being through vigilant health monitoring, staying informed about this unfolding litigation is crucial.

Seeking compensation for future health monitoring

Victims are taking action by filing hair relaxer lawsuits to secure compensation for ongoing health monitoring.

This is due to concern over the increased uterine cancer risk associated with these products, as highlighted in various studies.

These legal claims stress the need for regular medical surveillance to catch any potential health issues early on, particularly among Black women who historically have used these products more frequently.

In response to this need for vigilance, plaintiffs seek court-ordered medical monitoring programs funded by companies like L’Oreal and Softsheen-Carson, Inc.

A precedent was set when Judge Mary Rowland greenlighted most claims in a class-action lawsuit challenging the defendants’ attempts to dismiss them.

Pursuing medical monitoring requires attention to detail from the Plaintiffs and solid evidence showing that consistent check-ups are essential after exposure to dangerous chemicals found in hair relaxers.

Hearing for class action motion set

A critical moment is on the horizon for those affected by hair relaxer products, with the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) having scheduled a pivotal hearing.

Slated for January 26, 2023, parties involved will present arguments related to consolidating all hair relaxer lawsuits into a single multidistrict litigation (MDL).

This consolidation seeks to unify the claims of plaintiffs nationwide, streamlining pretrial proceedings and fostering a more efficient path forward.

The hearings are significant as they determine whether individual cases embodying similar allegations—that certain chemicals in hair relaxers contribute to developing uterine cancer—warrant being treated collectively.

Judge Mary Rowland’s decision against dismissing most claims further intensifies this legal encounter, setting a tone that could influence how dozens of cosmetic companies respond in the face of increasing litigation pressure.

Defendant’s opposition to MDL

Companies being sued in the hair relaxer cancer lawsuits are standing their ground against consolidating these cases into a Multi-District Litigation (MDL).

They argue that each case involves different products and circumstances, which means they should be handled separately.

However, Judge Mary Rowland has already established MDL status for the lawsuit, streamlining the process for individuals filing claims.

This decision adds efficiency to the legal proceedings by grouping together nine hair relaxer cases with similar accusations—that these products caused uterine and ovarian cancers.

The defendants’ pushback has not slowed down the momentum of the lawsuits moving forward under MDL guidelines set by Judge Rowland.

She dismissed most of their attempts to toss out claims made by women who developed uterine cancer after using hair relaxers.

Despite resistance from companies selling hair relaxers, plaintiffs continue to come forward, adding strength to allegations that there may indeed be a link between harmful chemicals in these products and serious health issues among women previously diagnosed with cancer stemming from product use.

How to Choose a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer

When seeking justice for suffering due to potentially harmful beauty products, partnering with a seasoned attorney who has championed consumer safety issues could significantly influence the outcome of your claim.

Experience and track record

Selecting a hair relaxer cancer lawyer with impressive experience and track record is essential in handling such sensitive lawsuits.

Lawyers specializing in these cases have previously navigated complex legal landscapes and understand the intricacies of filing a hair relaxer lawsuit.

Clients benefit from their expertise, as these attorneys bring forth a history of successful negotiations or courtroom victories.

These seasoned professionals also remain updated on recent studies demonstrating a link between hair relaxers and increased cancer risk, which bolsters the credibility of your claims.

The proven success rate of law firms adept at managing hair relaxer uterine cancer lawsuits becomes invaluable when seeking justice and compensation for harm suffered due to harmful chemical exposure from hair relaxing products.

Trusting your case to someone who has been at the forefront of similar legal battles can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

Contingency fees and upfront costs

Choosing the right lawyer for a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit involves understanding how payment works.

Many attorneys handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle your case.

This setup removes the burden of upfront costs from you as a client, allowing you to pursue justice without financial stress.

It’s crucial to discuss the details of contingency fees with your potential attorney, ensuring clarity on what percentage they will take if the settlement is successful.

Since lawyers in this field are committed to helping victims receive compensation, their payment ties directly to the outcome of your lawsuit—no victory, no fees.

Keep this in mind as it aligns the interests of both you and your counsel towards achieving the best possible result in court.

Hair Relaxer Recall Push

In the ongoing effort to secure consumer safety, advocates are intensifying their campaign for a Hair Relaxer Recall Push, aiming to compel regulatory authorities and manufacturers to withdraw products demonstrated to contain harmful chemicals.

This movement is rapidly gaining traction, fueled by harrowing testimonies from individuals who have developed uterine cancer potentially linked to long-term hair relaxer use.

The recall push is not only pivotal for protecting future consumers but also significantly influences the litigation landscape; efforts that successfully prove certain hair relaxers’ risks can bolster existing lawsuits against companies that sold hair relaxers alleged to be carcinogenic.

As this crusade unfolds, potential ramifications could see a sweeping reform in cosmetic product regulations and offer further validation for those currently suing multiple companies over health concerns.

It places immense pressure on brands which may lead them toward more stringent safety protocols or formula changes—developments closely monitored by concerned customers and legal entities alike.

Moreover, updates regarding this initiative are paramount for claimants and lawyers navigating the complex web

Efforts to remove harmful products from the market

Consumers and advocacy groups are taking bold steps to ensure hair relaxer products linked to cancer are removed from store shelves.

These efforts aim to protect public health and prevent further harm from potentially dangerous chemicals:

  • Consumer Awareness Campaigns
  • Petitions for Change
  • Lobbying for Stricter Regulations
  • Pressuring Manufacturers
  • Scientific Research Support
  • Legal Action as a Catalyst
  • Supporting Natural Hair Movements

Impact on lawsuits

Efforts to remove harmful hair relaxers from the market are creating ripples in ongoing litigation.

As evidence mounts, showing a link between these products and an increased risk of developing uterine cancer, lawsuits against cosmetic companies like L’Oreal are surging.

Plaintiffs claim that despite knowing the risks, manufacturers continued to market these dangerous chemicals to women, especially targeting Black communities.

Hair relaxer recalls have significant consequences for legal actions.

Settlement conversations hint at compensation for those harmed by these products.

With multidistrict litigation (MDL) proceedings centralizing cases into one court—a process streamlined by proposed orders for direct filing—courts handle claims more efficiently.

This consolidation underscores not just the individual grievances, but the shared concern among thousands alleging harm from hair straightener use.

Revlon Bankruptcy and Its Effect on Lawsuits

The declaration of bankruptcy by Revlon, one of the dozen cosmetic companies implicated in these legal battles, introduces a complex layer to the ongoing litigation.

Defendants often employ various strategies during bankruptcy proceedings, which can significantly affect pending lawsuits and future claims.

Stakeholders closely monitor any developments as they may alter the landscape for plaintiffs seeking justice and compensation for uterine cancer diagnosed potentially due to harmful hair products.

Tactics and Strategies: Defendants

In the complex battle over hair relaxer cancer lawsuits, companies like Revlon employ various legal defenses to protect their interests.

Despite navigating bankruptcy, Revlon has leveraged its substantial insurance policy to address claims that its products developed uterine cancer in users.

Their lawyers work tirelessly to challenge the allegations, arguing against a causal link between hair relaxers and cancer diagnoses.

Meanwhile, L’Oreal and other cosmetic giants are also deploying defense strategies to manage the onslaught of litigation.

With dozens of lawsuits filed by women who claim these products have seriously harmed their health, companies contest each case fiercely.

They scrutinize scientific studies linking harmful chemicals in hair relaxers to increased risk for cancers such as ovarian and uterine.

By questioning the methods and conclusions of these studies, they aim to cast doubt on plaintiffs’ positions while reinforcing their product safety narratives.

As pending lawsuits continue, developments unfold rapidly in this high stakes legal arena.

Pending lawsuits and developments

Revlon, despite its bankruptcy status, remains a key player in the hair relaxer cancer saga due to its extensive insurance coverage for such lawsuits.

The company has reacted to plaintiffs’ reports and provided updates during their bankruptcy proceedings.

This pivotal move illustrates how even amid financial restructuring, Revlon’s role in pending legal challenges is crucial.

Legally mandated by a Federal bankruptcy justice, attorneys are actively filing new cases as part of a noticeable swell in chemical hair straightener lawsuits.

Victims seeking compensation need to lodge formal complaints against Revlon before they can claim any right to indemnity from the cosmetic giant’s insurance policy.

This necessity adds urgency and complexity to the ongoing litigation landscape surrounding allegations that hair relaxers lead to uterine cancer development.

Conclusion

In light of the recent revelations and legal actions, it’s essential for those affected to understand their rights and options.

Stay informed on the latest developments in hair relaxer cancer lawsuits; knowledge is power during these trying times.

If you believe your health has been compromised by hair relaxers, seeking legal advice could be a crucial step toward justice and compensation.

Empower yourself with information, and consider taking action if your situation warrants it.

Frequently Asked Questions

  •  How can I file a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit?

    The first step to filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit is consulting an attorney specializing in product liability cases.

    If you’ve suffered adverse health effects due to hair relaxer products, contact TruLaw today for a no-obligation consultation.

    We are fully committed to securing the compensation you deserve.

  • Can permanent hair dye lead to uterine cancer?

    Scientific studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health report that “women who reported frequent use of hair straightening products, defined as more than four times in the previous year, were more than twice as likely to go on to develop uterine cancer compared to those who did not use the products.”

  • Have people filed lawsuits over hair relaxers causing cancer?

    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.

  • What should I do if I developed uterine cancer after using a hair relaxer?

    If you’ve used a hair relaxer and later developed uterine cancer, you may want to consider seeking legal advice to explore the possibility of filing a lawsuit.

  • How does the 2023 guide help with filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit?

    The 2023 guide provides up-to-date information on how someone affected can pursue legal action if they believe their illness is related to the use of chemical hair straightening products.

Written By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO

With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three.  She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.

In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.

In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit

Camp Lejeune’s water contamination issue spanned several decades starting in the 1950s. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to various serious health issues, including cancer, organ diseases, and death.

Tylenol Lawsuit

Research is increasingly suggesting a link between the use of Tylenol during pregnancy and the development of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and ADHD, in infants.

AFFF Lawsuit

Legal action is being taken against manufacturers of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), a chemical used in fighting fires. The plaintiffs allege that exposure to the foam caused health issues such as cancer, organ damage, and birth and fertility issues.

Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TruLaw, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Alongside our partner law firms, we have successfully collected over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

Helpful Sites & Resources