How to Join the Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
Women who developed uterine cancer, ovarian cancer and certain other conditions after years of using chemical hair relaxers are suing the manufacturers, claiming the products contained harmful chemicals and lacked adequate warnings. Federal cases are coordinated in MDL 3060 in the Northern District of Illinois. This guide explains who may qualify, what evidence matters and how to start with a free, confidential review through Legal Lawsuit.
What Are Hair Relaxers?
Chemical relaxers have been used for decades to straighten and smooth hair. Investigations and research have raised concerns about links between frequent relaxer use and serious health problems, including certain cancers. If you developed a qualifying illness after long-term use, you may be able to bring a claim.
Health Risks Raised in the Lawsuits
The claims focus on several kinds of harm: Cancer Research, including a 2022 National Institutes of Health study, has associated frequent relaxer use with a higher risk of uterine cancer, and other studies have examined ovarian and breast cancer. Reproductive health Some plaintiffs also allege fibroids, endometriosis and fertility problems. Burns and irritation Relaxers can cause scalp burns and allergic reactions, especially if left on too long. Hormone disruption Plaintiffs argue that some ingredients act as endocrine disruptors that interfere with the body’s hormones.
Kinds of Hair Product Claims
-
Hair Straightener Claims
Claims against straightening products such as relaxers and creams, alleging the makers failed to warn about the risks of ingredients like formaldehyde-releasing chemicals.
-
Chemical Straightener Claims
Claims targeting products containing chemicals such as phthalates and lye, used in salons and at home, that plaintiffs link to cancer, reproductive problems and burns.
-
Hair Relaxer Cancer Claims
The core of the litigation: claims by women diagnosed with uterine, ovarian or certain other cancers after using relaxers. Because relaxer use is especially common among Black women, the cases have drawn attention to that community’s risk.
-
Perm Claims
Claims involving chemical perms, which can cause burns, hair damage and allergic reactions.
-
Other Hair Product Claims
A broader category covering dyes, bleaches and other treatments alleged to contain harmful ingredients.
Symptoms Worth Discussing With a Doctor
If you used relaxers for years and are worried about your health, watch for these signs and talk to a healthcare provider:
- Unexplained pelvic or abdominal pain
- Abnormal bleeding, irregular cycles or fertility problems
- Scalp burns or skin reactions
- Changes in skin or hair texture
- Lumps or growths
- Respiratory Issues
Seek medical care for any of these symptoms, and keep records of your diagnosis and treatment.
Did You Know?
In the 2022 NIH Sister Study, women who reported frequent hair relaxer use were estimated to have more than twice the risk of uterine cancer by age 70 compared with women who never used them.
Why Work With a Hair Relaxer Lawyer?
Hair relaxer cases involve product identification, medical records and scientific evidence. An attorney experienced in these claims can document which products you used and for how long, connect your diagnosis to the litigation criteria, work with medical experts and handle the manufacturers’ lawyers. Most work on contingency, so there is usually no fee unless money is recovered.
Take the Next Step
If you developed a serious illness after using hair relaxers, a free, confidential review can help you understand whether you qualify. Call 833-333-0905 or use the form.
