Oklahoma Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

Hair relaxers, a seemingly harmless beauty product, have become the center of controversy and a cause for concern. The Oklahoma hair relaxer cancer lawsuit has shed light on the potential dangers of using these products.

If you or someone dear to you in Oklahoma has suffered health issues due to the use of hair relaxers, you could be entitled to compensation. Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers complimentary consultations, giving you the opportunity to discuss any worries related to the usage of chemical hair relaxers.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the details of the lawsuit, the health implications of using hair relaxers, and the legal options available to those affected.

Oklahoma Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

The Oklahoma Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit revolves around individuals who frequently use chemical hair relaxers and straighteners, subsequently developing cancer or other health conditions. These plaintiffs claim that carcinogens in the products caused their illnesses, and the manufacturers failed to inform consumers about the harmful ingredients. Oklahoma residents diagnosed with cancer after using these products may be eligible to file a lawsuit against manufacturers for compensation.

As of February 2023, over 55 chemical hair straightener lawsuit cases have been filed. The hair relaxer litigation is currently in the pretrial discovery phase, where both sides collect case information. After this stage, Judge Rowland will establish a bellwether process, trying a few cases in the Northern District of Illinois to gauge how the rest of the litigation might unfold.

Considering a hair relaxer lawsuit in Oklahoma? Consulting an attorney who can navigate you through the process would be beneficial. Your attorney will need information about:

• Your diagnosis
• Experience with hair straightening chemicals
• Family medical history
• Any other factors that could strengthen your case

What Is a Chemical Hair Relaxer?

Chemical hair relaxers are products primarily used by Black women to straighten their hair. These chemical hair relaxer products contain a range of chemicals, varying from brand to brand and product to product. One such chemical is DEHP, a plasticizer often found in hair products that help achieve a gel-like consistency and preserve the scent.

The Environmental Protection Agency classifies DEHP as a “probable human carcinogen”. Chemical hair relaxers have been found to contain high concentrations of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) [1]. US law contains a loophole that permits manufacturers to include undisclosed chemicals and label it simply as “fragrance” without any further information.

Health Implications

Frequent use of hair relaxers has been linked to increased risks of:

• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Breast cancer
• Other health issues

Studies have shown that using chemical hair straighteners or relaxers can increase the risk of developing uterine cancer [2]. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a study indicating that frequent use of hair relaxer products may double the risk of developing uterine cancer. This information is particularly significant for Black women, who typically use these products more often and start using them at younger ages than other races and ethnicities.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in hair relaxers are substances that interfere with hormone production, release, transportation, binding, and elimination in the body.

DEHP, a chemical found in hair relaxers, disrupts the endocrine system, making it difficult for the body to regulate hormones, leading to health issues like ovarian and uterine cancer.

In addition to cancer risks, chemical hair relaxers have been linked to uterine fibroids and endometriosis, as well as potential infertility complications. Awareness of these health risks and considering alternatives to hair relaxer products is paramount for consumers.

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

Companies involved in hair relaxer lawsuits include:

• L’Oréal
• Revlon
• SoftSheen-Carson
• Strength of Nature

The lawsuit primarily involves products manufactured by L’Oreal and its subsidiaries, such as SoftSheen-Carson. Strength of Nature’s products, Motions and Soft & Beautiful, are also part of the lawsuit.

These companies are facing legal action for their alleged negligence in disclosing the harmful ingredients and potential health risks associated with their hair relaxer products. Consumers who have developed cancer or other health conditions due to the use of these products may be eligible to file a claim against the manufacturers for compensation.

What Does It Cost To Hire an Oklahoma Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer?

Hiring an Oklahoma hair relaxer cancer lawyer typically operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients only pay if they win their case. This approach ensures that individuals seeking justice can access legal representation without worrying about upfront costs.

As lawyers’ fee structures may vary, direct consultation is necessary to understand their specific fees and payment options. Some lawyers may even offer free case reviews and not charge any attorney fees upfront.

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

Oklahoma residents diagnosed with cancer after using hair relaxer products may be eligible to file hair relaxer cancer lawsuits, with a limited time frame depending on state laws.

Filing a hair relaxer lawsuit requires individuals to furnish details about their usage of chemical hair relaxers, diagnoses, surgeries, treatments, and comprehensive medical history.

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

In Oklahoma, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit. The time limit to file a hair relaxer lawsuit in Oklahoma varies by state law. Consulting a lawyer to ascertain eligibility and to ensure timely filing of your claim is pivotal.

Settlements and Compensation

Settlements and compensation in hair relaxer lawsuits can cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Diminished quality of life

Successful settlements have ranged from $300,000 to $1,750,000, with some plaintiffs receiving even higher amounts.

Pursuit of a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit allows individuals to:

1. Hold companies accountable for negligence
2. Secure compensation for endured hardships
3. Alleviate the financial burden of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with their health issues.

Related Articles:

• North Carolina Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
• North Dakota Hair Relaxer Litigation
• Ohio Hair Relaxer Attorney

FAQs

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a hair relaxer lawsuit?

Many lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. There are typically no upfront or out-of-pocket costs.

What should I do if I suspect my cancer is linked to hair relaxer use?

Contact a lawyer experienced in hair relaxer cancer lawsuits for a free consultation to determine your eligibility for a lawsuit and to discuss your legal options.

Can men file hair relaxer cancer lawsuits?

Yes, although women are more commonly affected, men who have used hair relaxers and developed cancer may also be eligible to file a lawsuit.

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys have covered so far.

Contact Our Oklahoma Attorneys

The Oklahoma hair relaxer cancer lawsuit has brought to light the potential health risks associated with using chemical hair relaxers. With increased risks of various cancers and other health issues, it’s essential for consumers to be aware of the dangers these products pose.

Our experienced Oklahoma hair relaxer lawyers at Schmidt & Clark, LLP are here to help you explore your legal options if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after using hair relaxer products. We offer free consultations and can assist you in filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit.

Don’t let manufacturers get away with negligence. Contact our Oklahoma attorneys today and take the first step towards justice and compensation for your pain and suffering. You deserve a chance to reclaim your life and hold these companies accountable for their actions.

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5842715/#:~:text=Studies%20on%20the%20effect%20of,ER
2. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/hair-straightening-chemicals-associated-higher-uterine-cancer-risk