Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

An alarming new study has found that women have a significantly increased risk of developing uterine cancer and other serious side effects, even with minimal use of hair straightening products like Mizani Rhelaxer Hair Relaxer.
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C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
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If you or a loved one was diagnosed with uterine cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids after using Mizani Hair Relaxer, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit and our products liability lawyers can help.

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Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Overview

Lawsuits against the manufacturers of hair relaxer products, including Mizani, allege that these chemical straighteners contain harmful endocrine-disrupting chemicals that cause uterine cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.

Plaintiffs claim that manufacturers failed to warn consumers about these serious health risks despite having knowledge of them.

Multiple scientific studies have linked these products to hormone-sensitive cancers, with Black women being disproportionately affected due to higher usage rates.

The lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in federal court, with over 9,800 cases pending as of February 2025.

New Hair Straightener Lawsuit Filed Against Makers of Dark & Lovely, Just for Me, Cantu Hair Relaxers

An Illinois woman who claims she developed endometriosis and uterine cancer from hair relaxer products has filed a lawsuit against L’Oreal USA, Inc., Soft Sheen-Carson LLC., Strength of Nature, LLC, Godrej Son Holdings, Inc. PDC Brands, and Parfums De Coeur, Ltd [1].

Plaintiff Timika Smith alleges she used hair straighteners for nearly 30 years, including Dark & Lovely, Just for Me, and Cantu Shea Butter Relaxer.

She continued using the products until at least 2017 when she was diagnosed with uterine cancer and endometriosis.

Smith claims that the defendants failed to warn women about toxic chemicals in their hair straightener and home perm products, according to the lawsuit.

The complaint states:

“Concerns around racial disparities in healthcare linked to chemicals found in cosmetic products are not new; previous studies, as far back as 2012, have also suggested a correlation between chemical relaxer use and uterine fibroids, a condition that disproportionately affects Black women.”

Smith’s lawsuit joins a growing number of similar complaints being filed, following the publication of several studies that linked severe health risks to phthalates and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in popular hair relaxer products predominantly marketed to black women.

Latest Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit 2025 Updates

  • July 2025: The hair relaxer multi-district litigation (MDL) # 3060 now includes 10,282 pending cases, with the court setting a February 28 deadline for written discovery. The litigation continues to expand as more women come forward with claims linking hair relaxers to serious health conditions [2].
  • July 2023: A total of 236 hair relaxer cases are pending in the MDL filed in the Northern District of Illinois. The manufacturers named as defendants in these lawsuits include L’Oreal, which has Mizani under its umbrella [3].
  • Februrary 2023: The JPML issued a Transfer Order officially creating MDL No. 3060: In Re: Hair Relaxer Marketing, Sales Practices, and Products Liability Litigation. All pending federal cases were transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, to be overseen by Judge Mary M. Rowland. At the time of consolidation, there were 44 lawsuits pending in 15 federal district courts. The consolidation aimed to streamline discovery and pretrial proceedings for the growing number of cases alleging links between chemical hair relaxers and cancer [4].
  • October 2022: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a groundbreaking study warning that ingredients in chemical hair relaxers may significantly increase the risk of uterine cancer [5]. The study found that women who frequently used hair relaxers were almost three times more likely to develop uterine cancer than those who never used them.

FDA Reports and Statistics

While the FDA has not issued specific warnings about Mizani hair relaxers, scientific research has provided alarming statistics about the health risks associated with chemical hair straighteners:

  • The NIH study followed nearly 34,000 U.S. women aged 35-74 over a 10-year period, finding that frequent users of hair relaxers had a 2.5 times higher risk of developing uterine cancer compared to non-users [5].
  • Women who used hair straighteners at least four times per year saw their lifetime risk of uterine cancer by age 70 increase from 1.64% to 4.05%.
  • A 2019 study conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that women who regularly used hair straighteners had a 9% higher likelihood of developing breast cancer than non-users [5].
  • Black women who frequently used permanent hair dyes had a 60% increased risk of breast cancer, compared to just an 8% increased risk for white women.
  • Those who used hair straighteners at least every 5-8 weeks had a 30% increased risk of breast cancer.

These studies highlight a critical public health issue, particularly for women who started using hair relaxers at a young age and continued regular use for years.

The prevalence of hormone-disrupting chemicals in these products has raised significant concerns among healthcare professionals and consumer advocates.

Related Articles: Hair Relaxer Cancer Litigation

Mizani Hair Relaxer Injuries & Side Effects

Chemical hair relaxers like Mizani have been linked to serious health conditions due to their endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These products can cause lasting damage to the body’s hormonal systems.

  • Uterine Cancer: Studies show women who frequently use hair relaxers have nearly three times the risk of developing this potentially deadly cancer of the uterine lining.
  • Breast Cancer: Regular users of hair straightening products have up to a 30% increased risk of breast cancer, with Black women facing a disproportionately higher risk (up to 60%).
  • Endometriosis: This painful condition, where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, has been linked to chemical exposure from hair relaxers that disrupt normal hormonal function.
  • Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause severe pain, heavy bleeding, and reproductive complications have been associated with long-term use of chemical hair straighteners.

Do You Qualify for a Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Mizani hair relaxer lawsuit if:

  • You used Mizani hair relaxer or other chemical hair straightening products at least four times per year
  • You used these products regularly for more than two years
  • You were diagnosed with uterine cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids
  • Your diagnosis occurred at least seven years after you first began regular use of hair relaxers
  • You are at least 25 years old
  • If diagnosed more than 18 months ago, you discovered the link between hair relaxers and your condition within the past 18 months

Evidence Required for a Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

To build a strong case, you’ll need to gather:

  • Proof of Product Use: Receipts from salon treatments or store purchases, photographs of the products you used, or testimonies from hairstylists who regularly applied the product.
  • Medical Records: Doctor’s notes and pathology reports verifying your diagnosis of uterine cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids, including dates of diagnosis and treatments received.
  • Employment Records: Documentation of lost wages if your illness impacted your ability to work.
  • Medical Bills: Records of expenses related to your diagnosis and treatment.

Damages You Can Recover

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

  • Medical Costs: Coverage for both past and future medical expenses related to your condition, including treatments, surgeries, medications, and ongoing care.
  • Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to illness, medical treatments, or inability to return to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
  • Additional Expenses: May include transportation for medical appointments, home healthcare needs, and other financial burdens caused by your illness.

Mizani Hair Relaxer Recall Information

As of April 2025, there has not been a formal recall of Mizani hair relaxer products by the FDA or the manufacturer.

Despite the growing number of lawsuits and scientific studies linking chemical hair relaxers to serious health conditions, these products remain on the market.

The FDA continues to monitor the situation, but has not yet taken regulatory action requiring manufacturers to remove these products from shelves or add strong warning labels about potential cancer risks.

Consumer advocacy groups have called for stronger regulation of chemicals used in hair relaxing products, particularly those marketed to Black women.

Statute of Limitations for Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuits

The time limit to file a Mizani hair relaxer lawsuit varies by state but generally ranges from 1-3 years from the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injury was related to hair relaxer use.

Many states apply a “discovery rule,” which means the statute of limitations begins when you knew or should have known about the connection between your health condition and hair relaxer use.

The publication of major studies linking hair relaxers to cancer in 2019 and 2022 may be considered relevant dates for the discovery rule in many cases.

If you believe you may have a case, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe. Missing the deadline could permanently bar you from seeking compensation.

Related Articles:

FAQs

1. What is Mizani Hair Relaxer?

Mizani Hair Relaxer is a chemical hair straightening product designed for fine and color-treated hair. It contains sodium hydroxide (lye) and is marketed for its ability to transform curly hair to straight hair quickly. The product is part of L’Oreal’s Mizani line of hair care products targeted primarily to Black women.

2. How do the chemicals in hair relaxers potentially cause cancer?

Hair relaxers contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals, including phthalates, parabens, and formaldehyde, which can be absorbed through the scalp. These chemicals can mimic hormones in the body, potentially triggering abnormal cell growth in hormone-sensitive tissues like the uterus and breasts, leading to cancer development over time.

3. Who is most at risk for health problems from hair relaxers?

Black women face the highest risk due to earlier and more frequent use of chemical hair straighteners throughout their lives. Studies show they are more likely to develop uterine cancer, breast cancer, and other conditions linked to these products, with some research indicating up to 60% higher cancer risk compared to non-users.

4. How do I know if my cancer or health condition was caused by hair relaxers?

A medical professional cannot definitively state that your specific cancer case was caused by hair relaxers. However, scientific studies have established a statistical link between frequent use and increased cancer risk. Your attorney will work with medical experts to evaluate your case based on your product usage history and medical condition.

5. What is the current status of the hair relaxer multidistrict litigation?

As of February 2025, there are 9,863 pending cases in the hair relaxer MDL. The litigation is progressing through the discovery phase, with written discovery deadline set for February 28, 2025, and oral fact discovery scheduled to conclude by September 30, 2025. Bellwether trials are expected to begin in November 2025.

6. How long will it take to resolve my hair relaxer lawsuit?

Hair relaxer lawsuits typically take 2-3 years to resolve. The current timeline indicates that bellwether trials will begin in November 2025, with potential settlements possibly occurring in late 2026 or beyond, depending on trial outcomes and whether manufacturers choose to settle or fight individual cases.

7. Can I still file a lawsuit if I used Mizani hair relaxer years ago?

Yes, you may still qualify if your health condition was diagnosed within the applicable statute of limitations in your state, or if you only recently discovered the connection between your condition and hair relaxer use. An attorney can evaluate your specific situation to determine eligibility.

8. What if I don’t have receipts or proof of using Mizani hair relaxer?

While receipts strengthen your case, other forms of evidence can help establish product use, including salon records, testimony from hairstylists, photographs showing your hair before and after treatments, or statements from friends and family who witnessed your regular use of these products.

9. How much compensation could I receive from a hair relaxer lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on several factors, including the severity of your condition, impact on your quality of life, medical expenses, and lost income. Serious cases involving aggressive cancers typically receive higher settlements than less severe conditions. Your attorney can provide a more accurate estimate after evaluating your specific case.

10. Is there a class action lawsuit for hair relaxer injuries?

Rather than a class action, hair relaxer cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL), which preserves individual claims while streamlining pretrial proceedings. This means each case is evaluated on its own merits, and compensation is determined based on individual circumstances rather than a universal settlement amount.

See all related product liability litigations our attorneys have covered.

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Have you or a loved one been unreasonably injured by a dangerous or defective consumer product?

Get Your Free  Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to Mizani hair relaxer products.

Most states allow only 1-3 years from the date you discovered or should have discovered the connection between your health condition and hair relaxer use. Waiting too long could permanently bar you from seeking the compensation you deserve.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

  • Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
  • No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
  • Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation
  • Nationwide representation in all 50 states

Our experienced team of product liability attorneys understands the complexities of hair relaxer litigation and will fight tirelessly to hold manufacturers accountable for their failure to warn consumers about serious health risks. Don’t delay in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.

References:

  1. https://www.schmidtandclark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-11-2-loreal-smith-complaint.pdf
  2. https://www.lawsuit-information-center.com/hair-relaxer-lawsuit.html
  3. https://lawsuitlegalnews.com/news/which-name-brand-products-linked-to-hair-straightener-cancer/
  4. https://www.law360.com/articles/1573523/attachments/0
  5. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/hair-straightening-chemicals-associated-higher-uterine-cancer-risk

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