Alabama Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

The Alabama hair relaxer cancer lawsuit has garnered significant attention, raising awareness of the potential risks and legal implications associated with chemical hair straighteners. But what are the specific concerns, and how can affected individuals seek justice?

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the ongoing Alabama hair relaxer cancer lawsuit, exploring the products and companies involved, possible health implications, and the process of seeking legal representation.

Should you or a family member believe you are affected by a hair relaxer product, pursuing legal advice and representation is of utmost importance. Schmidt & Clark, LLP is firmly committed to providing you with steadfast support. As a distinguished plaintiff’s law firm with a nationwide presence, our foremost promise is to be by your side, helping you pursue the justice and rightful compensation you’re seeking.

Alabama Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

The Alabama hair relaxer cancer lawsuit is an ongoing legal battle, with numerous updates and developments in the litigation process. The lawsuits involve various hair relaxer products containing harmful chemicals, which have been linked to the risk of women who use these products to develop uterine cancer, as well as ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering regulating phthalates, found in some hair relaxer products, as toxic chemicals due to their potential link to cancer [1]. The consolidation of hair relaxer lawsuits into a class action lawsuit could lead to a significant increase in the number of new filings, with over 100,000 suits predicted to be brought in this litigation.

As the lawsuit progresses, awareness of the dangers associated with hair relaxer products is growing, and more individuals are coming forward to seek justice. For those impacted, immediate action and consultation with a knowledgeable hair relaxer cancer lawyer is advised.

What Is a Chemical Hair Relaxer?

Chemical hair relaxers are substances designed to straighten or loosen the natural curl of hair by disrupting the protein bonds within the hair strands. These chemicals alter the hair’s structure, resulting in the relaxation of curls, coils, and waves while also extending the hair’s original curl pattern.

Many African American women use chemical hair relaxers to achieve straighter and flatter hair. These products help them create a certain hairstyle that is otherwise not possible.

However, the chemicals used in hair relaxers can also pose potential health risks. The most critical bond in hair is the disulfide bond, which is targeted by the chemicals in hair relaxers, including:

• Sodium hydroxide
• Ammonium thioglycolate
• Guanidine carbonate
• Lithium hydroxide
• Calcium hydroxide
• Potassium thioglycolate
• Di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (“DEHP”)

These chemicals may pose adverse effects on the hair and body; hence, understanding their potential risks is necessary.

Health Implications

Hair relaxer products have been linked to various health issues, including an increased risk of uterine, ovarian, and breast cancer. The National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute have conducted studies showing that women who used chemical hair relaxers had a higher risk of developing uterine cancer, with frequent users experiencing more than double the risk [2].

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in hair relaxer products can lead to:

• Hormone-dependent cancers
• Endometriosis
• Impaired sperm quality
• Abnormalities in reproductive organs
• Altered nervous system and immune function

Exposure to these chemicals can occur not only through the use of hair relaxers but also through the use of blow dryers or flat irons to straighten hair.

Research indicates that individuals using chemical hair straighteners face over twice the risk of developing uterine cancer. Additionally, there is an elevated risk of ovarian cancer and uterine fibroids associated with their use. Chemical burns on the scalp can lead to the inhalation or absorption of these harmful substances.

While studies haven’t established a direct link between uterine cancer and other chemical-based hair treatments such as highlights, bleach, hair dyes, and perms, it’s worth noting that parabens in these products may affect breast cells, potentially influencing their abnormal growth.

If you believe a hair relaxer product may have had an impact on you, seeking legal counsel and representation becomes crucial.

What Companies and Products are Involved in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuits?

Several major companies and products are involved in the ongoing hair relaxer lawsuits, including:

• Revlon
• Crème of Nature
• Herba Rich
• African Pride
• French Perm
• Fabulaxer
• Revlon Professional
• Revlon Realistic
• All Ways Natural Relaxer

Other big players in the hair relaxer market, such as L’oreal, Unilever, and Proctor & Gamble, are also anticipated to become major defendants in the hair relaxer cancer litigation.

Hair relaxer products containing hair relaxer chemicals such as formaldehyde and/or phthalates are being closely examined for potential legal action. Given the growing awareness of potential health risks linked to hair relaxer products, consumers should familiarize themselves with the companies and products implicated in these lawsuits.

What Does It Cost to Hire an Alabama Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer?

For those contemplating hiring an Alabama hair relaxer cancer lawyer, comprehending the associated costs is vital. Fortunately, most lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t have to pay any upfront costs.

Instead, you’ll only be charged attorney fees if you receive compensation for your case. This ensures that affected individuals have access to legal representation without worrying about the financial burden. Direct consultation with a hair relaxer lawyer is recommended for a better understanding of potential costs and fee arrangements.

Who Can File a Lawsuit for Hair Relaxer Products in Alabama?

To be eligible to file a hair relaxer lawsuit in Alabama, you must have used at least one hair relaxer product causing exposure to harmful chemicals and have developed a condition associated with the product.

If you’re an Alabama resident and meet these criteria, you can receive a free, no-obligation case review to determine your eligibility for compensation.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit in Alabama?

In Alabama, you have a limited time frame to file a lawsuit if your hair relaxer has caused an injury. This window of opportunity is typically two years from when you first became aware of the injury. However, the discovery rule may extend this deadline if you were unaware of the potential lawsuit when the injury first occurred.

A missed statute of limitations deadline could lead to claim rejection; hence, swift action and consultation with a seasoned hair relaxer cancer lawyer to safeguard your rights are advised.

Settlements and Compensation

While no settlements have been reached yet for hair relaxer lawsuits, victims of hair relaxer-related health issues do have the option to pursue compensation. This compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The potential settlement payout for these lawsuits could range from around $300,000 to $1,750,000, depending on the seriousness of the illness. For cases involving young plaintiffs with uterine cancer, the payout could be significantly higher.

If you suspect being impacted by a hair relaxer product, securing legal representation becomes of utmost importance. A qualified lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your losses and suffering and send a powerful message to the manufacturer about the harm their product has caused.

Related Articles:

• Luster’s Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
• African Pride Hair Relaxer Litigation
• Creme of Nature Hair Relaxer Attorney

FAQs

Are there any specific chemicals in hair relaxers that are considered carcinogenic?

Hair relaxers often contain formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates, which are known to disrupt endocrine function and have been classified as possible carcinogens by various health organizations.

How can I determine if my hair relaxer contains harmful chemicals?

Check the ingredient list on the product label for chemicals such as formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates. Additionally, research the product online or consult with a dermatologist for a professional opinion.

What should I do if I suspect my hair relaxer caused my cancer?

Consult with a medical professional to discuss your concerns and get a diagnosis. Then, consider reaching out to a lawyer who specializes in product liability or toxic tort cases to explore your legal options.

See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

Connect with Our Alabama Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit Advocates

The hair relaxer cancer lawsuit in Alabama serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with chemical hair straighteners. Those affected should pursue legal advice and representation to safeguard their rights and seek compensation for their anguish and suffering.

If you believe a hair relaxer product has affected you, feel free to request a complimentary consultation with a seasoned Schmidt & Clark, LLP hair relaxer cancer lawyer. Our accomplished team can help you understand your options and guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

References

1. https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/phthalates
2. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/hair-straightening-chemicals-associated-higher-uterine-cancer-risk