Hair Relaxer Uterine Fibroids Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Hair Relaxer Uterine Fibroids Lawsuit Overview

Scientific research is shedding new light on the hidden dangers of chemical hair relaxers, and the findings are alarming. The Sister Study, conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), tracked 33,497 women aged 35 to 74 over 11 years to identify risk factors for breast cancer and other serious health issues [1].

While the primary focus was breast cancer, researchers uncovered a troubling connection between hair straightening products and uterine cancer [2].

The Sister Study followed thousands of women over an 11-year period to investigate health risks associated with various lifestyle factors.

Among the participants, at least 378 women developed uterine cancer during the study. This alarming number highlights the need for deeper investigation into potential environmental and chemical triggers, particularly in commonly used personal care products [3].

Latest Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Updates

• October 21, 2022 – Jenny Mitchell files a federal lawsuit in Illinois against L’Oréal and other companies.
• Late October 2022 – The case gains traction after a major study links hair straighteners to increased uterine cancer risk.
• June 1, 2023 – A judge approves a master complaint, consolidating common claims from multiple plaintiffs.
• June–July 2023 – Both sides submit legal arguments on the scientific evidence linking relaxers to cancer. L’Oréal and other defendants seek to delay discovery, while plaintiffs push for faster case progression.
• July–August 2023 – L’Oréal requests case dismissals, arguing that plaintiffs have not provided specific product ingredient details. However, plaintiffs continue to push for trial dates in late 2024.

FDA Reports and Statistics

A significant finding from the Sister Study revealed that women who used chemical hair straighteners more than four times a year faced twice the risk of developing uterine cancer compared to those who never used these products.

This association raises concerns about long-term exposure to harmful substances in widely available hair relaxers and underscores the need for regulatory scrutiny [4].

Despite mounting evidence, regulatory agencies have yet to impose specific restrictions on hair relaxers or straighteners. While several countries have placed limits on the use of high-risk phthalates, the FDA has not announced any direct bans or safety measures addressing hair straightening products [5].

Quick Facts from the NIH Study

• 80% of women develop uterine fibroids in their lifetime
• Hair relaxer users face double the risk of uterine cancer
• Many affected women experience pain, excessive bleeding, and fertility complications
• Major brands like L’Oréal, SoftSheen-Carson, Dark & Lovely, and Just for Me are under legal scrutiny

Related Article: Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

Hair Relaxer Injuries & Side Effects

Chemical hair relaxers use phthalates, or plasticizers, to create a “softer” feel to the product. However, studies have found that these chemicals may disrupt the functioning of the endocrine system, which controls the production of hormones.

In fact, phthalates are known as “endocrine-disrupting chemicals (“EDCs”) due to their effect on the body.

Hair relaxers are applied to the base of the hair and come into direct contact with the scalp.

It is common for those who use hair relaxers and straighteners to develop “burns” from the products. Phthalates can seep into the body through the openings caused by the burns.

Mild Symptoms

• Frequent urination – Small fibroids pressing on the bladder can cause the need to urinate more often.
• Constipation – Fibroids near the rectum may slow digestion, leading to occasional constipation.
• Backache or leg pain – Some fibroids put slight pressure on surrounding nerves, causing minor discomfort.

Moderate Symptoms

• Pelvic pressure or pain – Growing fibroids can create a sense of heaviness or pain in the lower abdomen.
• Difficulty emptying the bladder – Larger fibroids may obstruct the bladder, making urination incomplete or slow.

Severe Symptoms

• Heavy menstrual bleeding – Periods may become excessively heavy, leading to anemia and fatigue.
• Menstrual periods lasting more than a week – Prolonged bleeding can cause weakness and iron deficiency.

Do You Qualify for a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Hair Relaxer lawsuit if:

• You used hair relaxer products between the relevant years
• You experienced serious side effects including uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, or other reproductive health issues
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to hair relaxer use

Evidence Required for a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

1. Gather Medical Records

• Obtain medical documentation showing a diagnosis of uterine cancer, fibroids, or other related conditions.
• Include surgical reports, pathology results, and doctor’s notes that link your condition to chemical exposure.

2. Identify Product Use History

• Make a list of hair relaxers and straightening products you used, including brand names and years of use.
• If available, retain receipts, product packaging, or photos as proof of purchase.

3. Document Your Symptoms and Treatments

• Keep a timeline of symptoms, when they started, and any medical treatments you received.
• Include details of surgeries, medications, or fertility issues caused by fibroids or cancer.

Damages You Can Recover

If your lawsuit is successful, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages against manufacturers (in some cases)

L’Oréal Hair Relaxer Recall Information

Currently, despite the growing evidence linking hair relaxers to serious health issues, major manufacturers including L’Oréal have not issued voluntary recalls of their chemical hair relaxer products.

The FDA has also not mandated any recalls related to hair relaxers and cancer or fibroid risks.

Jenny Mitchell’s Legal Battle Against L’Oréal

In October 2022, Jenny Mitchell filed a lawsuit against L’Oréal USA, alleging that prolonged use of the company’s hair straighteners contributed to her uterine cancer diagnosis.

Mitchell had used these products for over two decades before being diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2018, a condition that led to her undergoing a full hysterectomy.

Her lawsuit not only highlights the alleged health risks associated with hair relaxers but also calls attention to negligence by manufacturers in failing to disclose the potential dangers of their products.

Specifically, Plaintiff Jenny Mitchell alleges that L’Oréal “actively and intentionally concealed and/or suppressed material facts, in whole or in part, to induce consumers, including Plaintiff, to purchase and use the Products and did so at her expense.”

Statute of Limitations for Hair Relaxer Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a hair relaxer lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of diagnosis or when you reasonably should have known about the connection between your condition and hair relaxer use.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss the filing deadline, as doing so could permanently forfeit your right to seek compensation.

Related Articles:

• ORS Olive Oil Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
• Ultra Sheen Hair Relaxer Lawyer
• Just For Me Hair Relaxer Attorney

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average settlement amount for hair relaxer lawsuits?

The average settlement amount is not yet identified, but similar cases have reached six-figure to multi-million-dollar settlements. Factors like medical costs, lost wages, and severity of harm will impact payouts.

2. Can I join if I used hair relaxers years ago?

Yes, you can join if you used hair relaxers years ago and you were later diagnosed with fibroids or related conditions. Laws vary by state, so contact a lawyer quickly to check eligibility before time runs out.

3. Do I need to go to court for my hair relaxer uterine fibroids lawsuit?

Not necessarily. Many cases settle out of court through negotiations. However, if a fair settlement isn’t reached, the case may go to trial.

4. How long does a hair relaxer uterine fibroids lawsuit typically take?

The duration can vary widely based on the complexity of the case, cooperation of involved parties, and whether it goes to trial. Some cases may resolve sooner through settlements.

5. What evidence is crucial for a hair relaxer uterine fibroids lawsuit?

Key evidence includes the product and its packaging, medical records, proof of purchase, witness testimonies, and expert opinions. This evidence helps build a strong case.

6. How do I know if my specific hair relaxer brand is included in the lawsuits?

Major brands under legal scrutiny include L’Oréal, SoftSheen-Carson, Dark & Lovely, Just for Me, ORS Olive Oil, Ultra Sheen, and other chemical hair straightening products. An attorney can determine if your specific products qualify.

7. Can I still file a lawsuit if I no longer have proof of purchase?

Yes, you may still qualify even without receipts. Medical records linking your condition to chemical hair relaxers along with testimony about your product usage history can support your case.

8. What if my loved one passed away from cancer potentially linked to hair relaxers?

Family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of a deceased loved one. These cases can provide compensation for medical expenses before death, funeral costs, and loss of companionship.

Get A Free Hair Relaxer Uterine Fibroids Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for hair relaxer-related injuries. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury or discovery to file a claim. If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids or cancer after using hair relaxers, don’t delay seeking legal help.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case

If you believe your health has been impacted by chemical hair relaxers, do not wait. Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free consultation and learn how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.

References

1. https://academic.oup.com/jnci/advance-article/doi/10.1093/jnci/djac165/6759686?login=false
2. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/uterine-cancer-hair-straighteners
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36245087/
4. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/study-finds-possible-link-between-hair-straightening-chemicals-and-uterine-cancer.html
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7460375/