Mizani Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

Scientific studies have raised growing concerns about the health risks associated with chemical hair relaxers and straightening products, particularly their link to uterine and breast cancer.

Research indicates that frequent use of these products may significantly increase cancer risks, with Black women disproportionately affected due to higher and earlier exposure.

Hair Relaxers and Uterine Cancer Risk

In October 2022, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a study warning that ingredients in chemical hair relaxers may significantly increase the risk of uterine cancer [2].

The study followed nearly 34,000 U.S. women aged 35 to 74 over a 10-year period, analyzing their use of various hair products, including hair dyes, straighteners, relaxers, pressing products, and body waves.

Key Findings from the NIH Study

• Nearly Threefold Increase in Uterine Cancer Risk – Women who frequently used hair relaxers were almost three times more likely to develop uterine cancer than those who never used them.
• Higher Cancer Rates Among Straightener Users – Out of 378 documented uterine cancer cases, those who used hair straighteners had the highest incidence compared to all other hair products in the study.
• Frequent Users Face the Greatest Risk – Those who used hair relaxers at least four times a year faced significantly higher risks than those who never used these products.

Statistical Breakdown of Uterine Cancer Risk

These findings highlight a critical public health issue, particularly for women who start using hair relaxers at a young age and continue regular use for years.

Hair Relaxers and Breast Cancer Risk

In 2019, a study published in the International Journal of Cancer (IJC) found that women who regularly used hair straighteners and permanent dyes had an increased risk of developing breast cancer [3].

The study followed 2,794 breast cancer cases over eight years, evaluating the effects of frequent exposure to chemical hair treatments.

Key Findings from the IJC Study

• 9% Overall Increased Risk – Women who regularly used hair straighteners and permanent dyes had a 9% higher likelihood of developing breast cancer than non-users.
• 30% Higher Risk for Frequent Users – Those who used hair straighteners at least every 5 to 8 weeks had a 30% increased risk of breast cancer.
• Significant Racial Disparities – 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.

Comparison of Breast Cancer Risk by Hair Product Use

These findings emphasize that Black women face a disproportionate cancer risk due to their higher frequency of hair relaxer use starting at a younger age.

Long-Term Health Implications and Regulatory Concerns

Who Can File a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?

Individuals who have used chemical hair relaxers or straighteners and later developed serious health conditions, can file a hair relaxer lawsuit.

Legal action is available for individuals who have been exposed to harmful chemicals in these products and subsequently diagnosed with illnesses such as uterine or ovarian cancer.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a lawsuit, claimants must meet specific criteria related to product use, medical conditions, timing, and documentation.

1. Type of Product Used

• Any chemical hair relaxer or straightener containing harmful ingredients.
• Brands such as Mizani may be included in legal discussions.
• Products used at home or in professional salons qualify.

2. Frequency and Duration of Use

• Must have used hair relaxers at least four times per year.
• Regular use for more than two years is required.

3. Qualifying Medical Conditions

• Uterine cancer, including endometrial cancer.
• Ovarian cancer.
• Additional conditions, such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis, may also qualify.

4. Timing and Age Requirements

• Must be at least 25 years old.
• Diagnosis must have occurred at least seven years after first regular use.
• If diagnosed more than 18 months ago, you must have discovered the link between hair relaxers and your condition within the past 18 months.

5. Required Documentation

• Proof of product use (receipts, photos, product packaging, or salon records).
• Medical records confirming a diagnosis of one of the qualifying conditions.

Next Steps for Potential Plaintiffs

If you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to consult a product liability attorney who specializes in hair relaxer lawsuits.

A legal expert can:

• Evaluate your case based on medical history, usage patterns, and supporting documents.
• Guide you through the claims process, ensuring all necessary paperwork is filed correctly.
• Help determine eligibility for financial compensation based on damages suffered.

While Mizani hair relaxers have not been as frequently named in mass tort lawsuits as other brands, users who meet these criteria may still have a valid claim. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible is recommended to ensure compliance with legal deadlines.

By taking legal action, affected individuals can seek justice and potential compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by harmful chemicals in hair relaxers.

If you have developed uterine cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids after prolonged use of chemical hair relaxers, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Following the correct legal process is essential to building a strong case.

1. Schedule an Initial Consultation

• Contact a product liability attorney with experience in hair relaxer lawsuits.
• Many law firms, including Schmidt & Clark, LLP, offer free case evaluations to determine if you qualify.
• Be prepared to discuss your medical history and hair relaxer usage.

2. Gather Documentation to Support Your Claim

To build a strong case, attorneys will need evidence proving your product usage and medical condition. Essential documents include:

• Proof of Hair Relaxer Use:

  • Receipts from salon treatments or store purchases.
  • Photographs of the product(s) you used.
  • Testimonies from hairstylists who regularly applied the product.

• Medical Records Confirming Diagnosis:

  • Doctor’s notes and pathology reports verifying uterine cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, or fibroids.
  • Dates of diagnosis and any treatments received.

• Personal and Financial Records:

  • Proof of lost wages if the illness impacted your ability to work.
  • Documentation of medical bills related to cancer treatment.

3. Legal Team Investigates and Prepares Your Case

Once all documentation is collected, your legal team will:

• Investigate Manufacturer Negligence: Attorneys will prove that hair relaxer manufacturers knew about the risks but failed to warn consumers.
• File a Lawsuit: The legal team will officially file your claim in the appropriate court.
• Join an Existing Mass Tort (MDL): If your case qualifies, it may be consolidated into the ongoing hair relaxer multidistrict litigation (MDL) for efficiency.

4. Filing and Case Progression

• After filing, both sides exchange evidence (discovery phase).
• Plaintiffs may be asked to provide additional testimony or undergo medical evaluations.
• Defendants may attempt to settle out of court before trials begin.

5. Expected Timeline for Resolution

• Initial Consultation to Filing: 1–3 months
• Discovery and Case Building: 6–12 months
• Bellwether Trials: First trial in November 2025, second in February 2026
• Settlement Negotiations: If trials favor plaintiffs, settlements may be reached in late 2026 or beyond

If you meet the criteria for a hair relaxer lawsuit, contact the product liability lawyers at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, today. Legal deadlines may apply, so acting quickly ensures you do not miss your opportunity to seek compensation.