FAQ: What is the Average Hair Relaxer Settlement Amount?

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.

What is the Average Hair Relaxer Settlement Amount? Let's Discuss.

Question: What is the average Hair Relaxer settlement amount?

Answer: The average hair relaxer lawsuit settlement amount is expected to be in the range of $100,000 to $1,500,000.

However, individual settlement amounts vary greatly depending on the severity of your health issues and other factors.

For this reason, it’s best to discuss the details of your case with an experienced Hair Relaxer Lawsuit lawyer who can give you a better idea of what to expect with your specific case.

You can do this by using our chat at the bottom of this page.

On this page, we’ll discuss this question in further depth, an overview of the hair relaxer lawsuits, who qualifies to file a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit, and much more.

FAQ What is the Average Hair Relaxer Settlement Amount

A range of settlement amounts has emerged in the ongoing Multi-District Litigation (MDL) concerning hair relaxer products, reflecting the diverse impacts on individuals’ health.

The average settlement amounts of the hair relaxer MDL lawsuit are projected to fall within the following ranges:

  • Uterine Cancer:  $200,000 to $1,500,000
  • Ovarian Cancer: $400,000 to $750,000
  • Endometriosis: $100,000 to $250,000
  • Uterine Fibroids: $150,000 to $450,000

These averages provide an overview of what individuals involved in the hair relaxer MDL lawsuits might expect, highlighting the differences based on health impacts and specific details of each case.

However, as mentioned above, these are just estimates and can vary substantially on a case-by-case basis.

It’s best to discuss the details of your case with an experienced Hair Relaxer Lawsuit attorney to get a better idea of what you could expect if filing a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit.

You can use the chat at the bottom of this page to discuss your case with our team today!

Table of Contents

Understanding Hair Relaxer Lawsuits

The hair relaxer MDL lawsuits allege that certain chemicals in hair relaxer products act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, posing significant health risks.

Legal action has seen an influx of cases filed, raising questions about treatment options for affected individuals and discussing whether there is ground for a broader relaxer class action lawsuit.

Types of Hair Relaxer Lawsuits

Hair relaxer lawsuits have emerged as victims seek compensation for damages caused by chemical hair straighteners.

These legal actions often allege that manufacturers failed to warn of the potential risks in the following ways:

  • Product Liability Lawsuits: Victims file these cases claiming hair relaxer products were inherently dangerous and defective, leading to adverse health effects such as uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometriosis.
  • Negligence Litigation: Here, plaintiffs argue that companies like Revlon did not exercise reasonable care in the manufacturing and marketing of hair relaxers, thus breaching a duty of care to consumers.
  • Failure to Warn Claims: This involves allegations that the hair relaxer manufacturers knew or should have known about the risks but did not adequately inform users. Increased risk of breast cancer and fibroids are often cited in these claims.
  • Breach of Warranty Lawsuits: Consumers can bring forward claims if they believe that the product didn’t meet the implied warranties of safety or if there’s a breach of express warranties made by the manufacturers.

Common medical conditions linked to hair relaxer use

Research indicates a connection between the use of chemical hair relaxer products and certain health risks.

Studies have focused on conditions ranging from hormonally influenced diseases to cancers often involving reproductive health.

  • Uterine Cancer: Uterine cancer lawsuits are being filed as evidence suggests these products could disrupt hormonal functions leading to this serious medical condition.
  • Ovarian Cancer: The National Cancer Institute has found that the harsh chemicals in hair relaxers can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
  • Endometriosis: This painful disorder, where tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, has been associated with hair straightening chemicals.
  • Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus, known as fibroids, have been reported at higher rates among black women who frequently utilize hair relaxer products.
  • Hysterectomy Recovery: Some women have undergone hysterectomies due to conditions exacerbated by chemical hair relaxers and may experience long-term recovery issues.
  • Other Hormonal Disorders: The disrupting effects of chemicals found in these products may lead to various hormonal disorders, affecting overall health and reproductive systems.

Companies named in lawsuits

These cases will set a precedent for holding manufacturers responsible for any harm caused by their products.

The companies named in the Hair Relaxer MDLs include, but are not limited to:

  • L’Oréal USA, Inc.: One major company facing litigation is L’Oréal USA. Plaintiffs argue that L’Oréal’s hair relaxer products contain hazardous chemicals that have not been adequately disclosed to consumers.
  • SoftSheen-Carson (owned by L’Oréal): Also under the umbrella of L’Oréal and a frequent name in lawsuits, SoftSheen-Carson is known for marketing popular hair relaxer brands reportedly linked to cancer risk.
  • Strength of Nature Global, LLC: This company produces several types of hair care products and is another defendant in the ongoing legal battles over hair relaxer safety.
  • Namaste Laboratories LLC: Namaste Laboratories has been named in new hair relaxer lawsuits as one of the manufacturers whose products are suspected of causing health issues due to long-term use.
  • Dabur International: As an international entity, Dabur has also come into focus within these federal hair relaxer lawsuits for their role in manufacturing potentially harmful beauty products.
  • Revlon: Amidst financial struggles, Revlon’s involvement adds complexity to the situation as it faces claims that its hair-relaxing products may be linked to the development of uterine cancer.

Treatment options for related health conditions

Treatment options for health conditions caused by hair relaxer chemicals, such as cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids, typically involve a multi-faceted approach.

Doctors often recommend surgery to remove tumors or affected areas when dealing with cancers linked to hair relaxer use.

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be necessary to destroy any remaining cancer cells and reduce the chance of recurrence.

For non-cancerous conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids, treatments can include medication to manage symptoms or hormone therapy to address imbalances.

In some cases, minimally invasive procedures are available that target specific problem areas without extensive surgery.

It’s crucial for patients considering these treatments to consult healthcare professionals who specialize in these conditions for personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs.

Potential for class action lawsuits

Victims who have used chemical hair relaxers and subsequently developed uterine cancer are coming together for strength in numbers.

Class action lawsuits provide a pathway for groups of people to file a hair relaxer claim against companies responsible for their suffering.

These collective legal actions can lead to more efficient court proceedings and amplify the impact on the defendant companies, increasing the possibility of obtaining fair hair relaxer compensation.

The establishment of a class action lawsuit in New York signals a significant move towards potentially resolving many cases at once with a global settlement.

With multiple hair relaxer lawsuits filed, plaintiffs united under this type of litigation could see progress as they look to hold hair relaxer companies accountable.

Filing a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

Qualifying for a hair relaxer lawsuit demands understanding the criteria, which includes demonstrating the usage of the product and proving harm resulting from its application.

Essential steps include meticulously gathering evidence to support your claim, such as medical records linking hair relaxer use to adverse health outcomes.

Gathering evidence

Gathering evidence is a critical step in pursuing a hair relaxer lawsuit.

Proper documentation and thorough record-keeping form the backbone of a strong legal claim, ensuring you have a solid case against manufacturers.

  1. Collect Medical Records: Secure comprehensive medical documentation that details any diagnosis or treatment related to conditions like uterine cancer, fibroids, hysterectomy, or endometriosis believed to be linked to hair relaxer use.
  2. List Hair Relaxers Used: Compile an exhaustive list of all hair relaxer products you’ve applied, including brands and frequency of use, as this information is pivotal for establishing product liability.
  3. Obtain Witness Statements: Gather statements from individuals who can testify about your hair relaxer usage patterns, such as friends, family members, or professionals at the hair salon where the products were administered.
  4. Document Expenses: Keep meticulous records of all expenses incurred due to health conditions potentially caused by the hair relaxers—medical bills, lost wages, and costs associated with treatments.
  5. Take Photographic Evidence: If there are any physical signs associated with your condition that can be visually documented (like hair loss), take clear and date-stamped photos as supportive evidence.
  6. Investigate Company History: Research whether the companies named in lawsuits have past violations or settlements related to product safety issues involving permanent hair dye or other chemical treatments.
  7. Expert Testimonials: Seek insights from medical experts who can provide testimony on the potential harms caused by chemicals found in most hair relaxer lawsuits filed and their link to developing uterine cancer or other health issues.
  8. Chronicle Health Changes: Create a detailed timeline showing when you started using the products and note any subsequent health changes—an important factor in demonstrating causation between product use and health problems.

Assessing damages

Assessing damages is a key step in the hair relaxer lawsuit process.

This stage determines how much money a plaintiff might receive for the harm caused by these products.

  1. Evaluate Health Impact: Calculate costs associated with treating medical conditions linked to hair relaxer use, such as uterine cancer or other health issues.
  2. Lost Wages Assessment: Account for any lost income if the related health condition prevented work attendance or led to job loss.
  3. Pain and Suffering Calculation: Consider the non-economic impact on quality of life, including physical pain and emotional distress.
  4. Future Expenses Projection: Estimate future medical costs and ongoing care expenses that may arise from the long-term health effects of hair relaxers.
  5. Legal Precedents Review: Look at past settlements in similar hair perm lawsuits to gauge possible compensation ranges.
  6. Expert Testimonies Utilization: Include statements from medical professionals or economists to support claims about the extent of damages suffered.
  7. Negotiation Preparation: Prepare for settlement negotiations by establishing a clear understanding of the total damages incurred.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Representation

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.

The potential settlement amounts typically range from $300,000 to $1,750,000 depending on various factors; thus having a knowledgeable attorney can make all the difference in achieving a settlement towards the higher end of this spectrum.

We will fight vigorously to advance your interests and push for trial dates if necessary, which places additional pressure on defendants and can lead to more substantial settlement offers for you.

The Latest Updates in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit MDL

Stay informed on the evolving landscape of hair relaxer lawsuits filed, where recent case additions and significant court decisions are shaping the future of these legal claims.

The impact of Revlon’s bankruptcy on ongoing lawsuits underscores the complex nature of this MDL; understanding its implications is crucial for those affected.

Addition of new cases

The Hair Relaxer Lawsuit MDL is expanding rapidly, with new cases steadily flowing in.

Recently, 25 additional lawsuits were linked to the MDL, highlighting an ongoing concern over hair relaxer products and their potential health risks.

These filings come from a variety of states—indicative of a nationwide issue—and demonstrate the growing legal efforts against companies named in these cases.

In just one month since its inception in February 2023, the MDL has seen an influx of 128 new cases, confirming a significant rise in claims.

The total number of complaints alleging harm caused by hair relaxers has surged past 2,000 this past month alone.

Each lawsuit filed adds weight to allegations that certain hair relaxers may lead to severe medical conditions like uterine cancer—a serious charge that continues to draw attention across Maryland, Washington, California, Missouri, and Illinois.

Court decisions and orders

Court decisions and orders play a significant role in shaping the course of hair relaxer lawsuits.

These rulings determine the progress of cases within the MDL and influence outcomes for plaintiffs.

  • Judge Mary M.’s Designation: She has officially marked the hair relaxer lawsuits as multi-district litigation (MDL).
  • Nationwide Lawsuit Filings: Courts across the United States are receiving cases, signaling the widespread nature of claims that hair relaxers may develop uterine cancer and other health issues.
  • Revlon’s Bankruptcy Announcement: Revlon’s financial status affects ongoing litigation. The bankruptcy could impact the ability to receive compensation from this defendant.
  • Settlement Conferences: Periodic settlement conferences may encourage both parties to reach an agreement before going to trial, potentially leading to quicker resolutions for claimants.

Revlon bankruptcy and impact on lawsuits

Revlon recently navigated through bankruptcy, emerging with a plan to rebuild its financial health.

However, this restructuring effort does not provide a complete shield against ongoing hair relaxer lawsuits.

Plaintiffs who allege harm from the company’s products can still pursue legal action.

The bankruptcy might complicate matters as it could affect Revlon’s approach to settlement negotiations and potentially limit available funds for resolving claims.

The impact of Revlon’s financial reorganization on multidistrict litigation (MDL) is significant, considering updates in the lawsuit involving increased cancer risks associated with chemical hair treatments.

Although Revlon has exited the protection that comes with filing for bankruptcy, its obligations towards impacted consumers remain intact.

Therefore, claimants involved in these lawsuits should monitor developments closely as they may influence both the strategy and outcomes of their cases against the corporation.

What to Expect in a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Settlement

Hair relaxer settlements provide financial compensation to individuals who suffered detrimental health effects because of these products.

The amount each plaintiff receives varies, and a multitude of factors influence it.

These include the specific health issues developed due to:

  • Frequent relaxer usage
  • The severity of individual conditions
  • Discernable impact on quality of life
  • Proven instances of negligence by the product manufacturers

Estimates indicate that hair relaxer uterine cancer cases could result in settlement payouts ranging from $300,000 to $1,750,000.

Meanwhile, average settlement amounts per person in the general hair relaxer lawsuits might hover between $100,000 to $1,500,000.

For endometriosis cases linked with hair relaxers specifically – estimates situate probable settlement sums anywhere between $150,000 and $500,000.

Furthermore, it’s important for plaintiffs to know that receiving a settlement doesn’t usually involve an immediate payout after the agreement.

Factors That Influence Hair Relaxer Settlements

Factors that play a role in determining settlement amounts for hair relaxer lawsuits are quite varied.

Each settlement amount is based on a variety of factors such as:

  1. Severity of the Disease: A direct link exists between the settlement amount and how severe the plaintiff’s health condition is due to hair relaxer use. More serious illnesses often lead to higher settlements.
  2. Medical Expenses Incurred: Plaintiffs who have faced high medical bills for treatment related to hair relaxer side effects may receive more significant compensation to cover these costs.
  3. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If using hair relaxers has led to a disease that prevents someone from working, lost wages and future earning potential could be factored into the settlement amount.
  4. Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages such as physical pain, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life are considered when calculating settlements.
  5. Punitive Damages: In cases where a company’s actions regarding hair relaxers are proven to be particularly harmful or negligent, punitive damages might be awarded to deter similar future conduct.
  6. Strength of Evidence: Strong evidence linking hair relaxer use with health conditions strengthens a claim and potentially increases the settlement value.
  7. Existing Precedents: Past cases involving similar claims against hair relaxer companies may set precedents that influence the compensation figures in new lawsuits.

Milestones in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit MDL

The formation of multi-district litigation indicates the cases are taken seriously and will be managed under a uniform legal framework.

The consolidation of hair relaxer lawsuits into a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) streamlines the process.

The MDL is designed to improve efficiency by handling pretrial proceedings such as discovery and motion practice for all involved parties in a single court.

Formation of the MDL provides an organized structure where each case can be developed while sharing common investigations.

This coordination typically results in more consistent rulings and may impact settlement negotiations.

Key details of the hair relaxer MDL include:

  • Creation of MDL (Multidistrict Litigation): This pivotal moment represents the consolidation of numerous lawsuits to streamline pretrial proceedings.
  • Monthly Case Filings: A growing number of filings each month indicates an escalating concern and awareness among individuals potentially affected by hair relaxers.
  • Defendants’ Tactics: Observing defendant companies as they respond with various legal strategies can provide insight into how these cases may progress.
  • Plaintiff’s Claims: The evolution and consistency of plaintiffs’ claims are critical, reflecting the collective voice of those seeking justice for alleged harm caused by hair relaxers.

It is imperative for individuals considering joining this litigation to monitor these developments closely, as they will greatly influence both the process and potential outcomes of their cases.

Monthly case filings

Every month, new cases join the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit MDL, reflecting ongoing concerns about potential health risks associated with these products.

Compliance with Judge Rowland’s recent rules on filing, serving, and amending lawsuits ensures a streamlined process for all parties involved.

This continuous increase in filings signals the growing magnitude of the issue as more individuals come forward seeking justice.

Updates regarding monthly case filings are critical for those tracking the progression of this multifaceted litigation.

With each additional case filed, our understanding of plaintiffs’ experiences and defendants’ responses deepens, providing invaluable insights into how these legal battles may ultimately be resolved.

Defendants’ tactics

In the hair relaxer lawsuit MDL, defendants are employing various strategies to challenge the claims brought against them.

They have filed motions in an attempt to dismiss many of these claims, arguing that the cases lack sufficient evidence or legal basis.

Despite these efforts, Judge Mary Rowland ruled against dismissing most claims in the class action lawsuit concerning hair relaxer products, allowing plaintiffs to move forward with their cases.

Defendants may also seek to minimize potential losses by disputing causation and contesting scientific studies linking hair relaxers with medical conditions.

It’s expected they will continue to negotiate hard on settlement amounts and push for terms that could limit their financial responsibility.

Legal experts closely observe these tactics as they develop within the judicial proceedings of this MDL.

Plaintiff’s claims

Plaintiffs in the hair relaxer lawsuits have leveled serious allegations against manufacturers.

They accuse these companies of failing to warn about the dangers tied to their products, which include hormone-related cancers, such as uterine cancer, and other health conditions like scalp burns and allergic reactions.

Victims claim that they suffered significant physical harm due to chemical exposure from the regular use of hair relaxers.

The legal actions emphasize that the affected individuals often paid a substantial price for these hazardous products, with complaints estimating expenses between $5 and $8 per purchase.

As cases continue to surface, plaintiffs are demanding accountability, seeking compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life due to long-term health complications attributed to hair relaxer use.

Contact TruLaw Today

The settlements could significantly impact affected individuals, reflecting both their struggles and the accountability of manufacturers.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Representation

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.

The potential settlement amounts typically range from $300,000 to $1,750,000 depending on various factors; thus having a knowledgeable attorney can make all the difference in achieving a settlement towards the higher end of this spectrum.

We will fight vigorously to advance your interests and push for trial dates if necessary, which places additional pressure on defendants and can lead to more substantial settlement offers for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Average Hair Relaxer Settlement Amount?

    The severity of the injury caused by the hair relaxer greatly influences the settlement amount.

    In general, the more severe the injury, the higher the settlement.

    Determining the average hair relaxer settlement amount depends on a variety of factors, including:

    • Type of health issue or cancer developed
    • The degree of suffering and pain endured
    • Impact on the individual’s quality of life

    For instance, cases involving ovarian cancer or uterine cancer often result in higher settlements

  • How do people figure out the average settlement for hair relaxers?

    No, it’s not guaranteed that everyone will receive the same amount of money in their chemical hair straightener lawsuit settlement.

    The settlement amounts can vary greatly depending on the specifics of each case, the severity of the injuries, and the strength of their legal argument.

  • Can anyone who used hair relaxers receive a settlement?

    Individuals who used chemical hair relaxers and subsequently developed uterine cancer or other related health conditions may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

    Lawyers are currently gathering data, devising strategies, and filing hair relaxer lawsuits across all 50 states.

  • Will everyone receive the same amount of money in their chemical hair straightener lawsuit settlement?

    No, each person’s chemical hair straightener lawsuit settlement is different; some might get more or less than others based on their specific situation regarding the use of the hair relaxer.

  • Am I eligible to file for the hair relaxer cancer lawsuit?

    Yes, women who have used chemical hair straightening products for multiple years are eligible to file for the 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.

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!

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