The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a significant step by proposing a ban on the use of formaldehyde in hair relaxers, raising awareness about the potential risks associated with these products, especially for black women.
This proposed rule will prohibit the use of formaldehyde and related chemicals in all hair-strengthening products, including relaxers. The FDA is currently advising consumers against purchasing and using relaxers containing formaldehyde or related ingredients.
The existing law does not require FDA approval for cosmetics or cosmetic ingredients before they enter the market, except for colorants. Nevertheless, companies and individuals who sell such products have a legal obligation to ensure their safety.
Key Points to Note:
- Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas used in various household products. It is highly toxic, and when these products are heated, formaldehyde gas is released into the air.
- Inhaling this gas can lead to immediate reactions such as eye and throat irritation, chest pain, as well as long-term health issues like frequent headaches, asthma, skin irritation, allergies, and cancer.
- Products that do not initially contain formaldehyde can convert to formaldehyde when heated, including substances like methylene glycol and formalin, which are found in relaxers, shampoos, and soaps.
The Impact on Black Women Worldwide:
A recent study by the National Institute of Health revealed that women who used hair relaxers more than four times in the previous year were over twice as likely to develop uterine cancer compared to non-users. While the study did not specify brands or ingredients, it highlighted that formaldehyde, parabens, and other components in relaxers could contribute to the increased risk of uterine cancer.
Another study from Boston University’s Black Women’s Health Study, which monitors 59,000 women, found that post-menopausal women who used relaxers over the long term had a higher risk of uterine cancer. The study’s lead author pointed out the poor regulation of these products, emphasizing that they often list vague terms like “fragrance” and “preservatives” on the label, leaving black women unaware of their exposure to harmful ingredients.
“We know that these products are very regularly by the government in terms of what goes in there. You can’t look at an ingredient label and know that it contains these endocrine disruptors. They don’t list phthalates and parabens on the box – they say fragrance and preservatives. So, women don’t know what they are exposed to.” “Endocrine disruptors are often found in hair relaxers and can be absorbed into the body when the product is placed on the scalp.” “The chemicals can interfere with the body’s endocrine or hormonal system, and they are linked to early onset of puberty, fibroid tumors, and infertility.”
Several black women have filed lawsuits against major hair brands such as Revlon, L’Oréal, and others, alleging that their relaxers and straightening products caused them to develop uterine cancer, breast cancer, infertility, and other health problems.
The proposed ban is expected to take effect in April 2024.
