by Contributor
(May 2, 2024) — Many individuals turn to chemical hair straighteners to achieve sleek, straight tresses. These products are alluring because they promise to effortlessly transform curly or wavy hair into a smooth, manageable mane.
However, beneath the surface glamor, a growing body of evidence suggests that chemical hair straighteners may pose significant risks to our health. As awareness of these concerns spreads, it’s essential to delve into the potential dangers of these popular beauty treatments.
In this article, we will explore these growing concerns and what steps are being taken to manage them.
The Rise of Chemical Hair Straighteners
In recent decades, chemical hair straighteners have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient solution for those seeking sleek, straight hair. This rise can be attributed to several factors, including evolving beauty standards, advancements in cosmetic chemistry, and the demand for time-saving methods.
With the globalization of beauty trends, the popularity of chemical straightening has spread worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries. Today, Market Data Forecast estimates that it is a $7.38 billion field in 2024. Moreover, it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% until 2029 to reach $10.84 billion.
One of the driving forces behind the popularity of chemical hair straighteners is the desire for versatility in hairstyling. Straight hair is often perceived as sleek and polished, fitting various fashion aesthetics and professional environments. Chemical straightening provides a semi-permanent solution, allowing individuals to maintain straightened hair for an extended period without daily styling efforts.
Moreover, advancements in cosmetic chemistry have led to the development of safer and more effective formulations for chemical straightening treatments. These innovations have addressed concerns about damage to hair texture and scalp health, making them a viable option for a broader demographic.
However, new health concerns have emerged recently. Several studies have linked chemical hair straighteners or relaxers to cancers.
The Appeal and Risks
The appeal of chemical hair straighteners is undeniable. For many individuals with naturally curly or frizzy hair, these treatments offer a convenient solution to achieve a smooth, sleek look. These are usually black people whose natural hairstyle is curled.
For instance, The Guardian states that a boy named Bryce was recently not allowed to collect his graduation certificate on stage. The reason was that his hair didn’t meet the school’s definition of neat and tidy. Like Bryce, more than 20 boys faced the same hair discrimination.
The prevalence of discrimination is more so in black women. They usually change their hair texture to get a job and work. Most black women feel that straightening their hair gives them a better chance of success in a job interview. Therefore, a ScienceDirect study concludes that the use of hair relaxers is far more common in black women than in white women.
However, the process of chemically straightening hair can have serious drawbacks. One of the most concerning ingredients in many straightening formulations is formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and respiratory irritant. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde vapors during the straightening process has been linked to various health issues, including uterine and bladder cancer.
This has led to many women filing a hair straightener cancer lawsuit against popular brands like L’Oréal and Revlon. The plaintiffs allege that the manufacturers failed to warn them about the potential health hazards of their products.
Health Concerns
The potential health risks of chemical hair straighteners have prompted concern among health professionals and advocacy groups. Studies have found elevated levels of formaldehyde in the air of salons where these treatments are performed, highlighting the occupational hazards.
Furthermore, individuals who undergo frequent straightening treatments may experience damage to their hair and scalp, including dryness, breakage, and hair loss. However, the biggest hair concerns are related to cancers.
An article from The New York Times mentions that the use of chemical hair straighteners is associated with uterine, breast, and ovarian cancer. In fact, many women have even filed lawsuits for these damages.
An NBC News article highlights the story of one particular woman, Kenya Appling. She used hair straighteners monthly since her childhood. At the age of 42, she was diagnosed with uterine cancer. After the diagnosis, she underwent a hysterectomy on her doctor’s advice.
Similar to Kenya Appling, many women have filed lawsuits for their injuries. According to TorHoerman Law, 8,380 cases were pending in the hair relaxer MDL as of April 1, 2024. This shows an increase of over 40 cases in March 2024. Thus, it can also be assumed that more lawsuits will be filed in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chemical Hair Straighteners Safe to Use?
While chemical hair straighteners can effectively straighten hair, they contain harsh chemicals that may pose risks to personal health. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can lead to skin and scalp irritation and more serious health issues.
Can Chemical Hair Straighteners Cause Hair Damage?
Chemical hair straighteners can damage the hair shaft by weakening its structure, leading to dryness, breakage, and loss of elasticity. This damage is often exacerbated by heat-styling tools, such as flat irons and blow dryers, commonly used in conjunction with straightening.
Are There Alternative Methods for Achieving Straight Hair?
Alternative methods for achieving straight hair that do not involve the use of chemical hair straighteners exist. These include heat-free styling methods, natural hair straightening treatments, and non-chemical hair care products formulated with gentle, plant-based ingredients.
Are There Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Chemical Hair Straighteners?
Eco-friendly alternatives to chemical hair straighteners are available on the market. These include natural and organic hair care products formulated with plant-based ingredients free from harmful chemicals. These products offer a safer and more sustainable option for achieving straight hair without compromising performance or results.
To sum up, chemical hair straighteners may promise sleek, straight hair. However, many potential risks to our health and the environment lie beneath their surface. From the presence of carcinogenic ingredients to the environmental impact, the use of these products raises significant concerns. As awareness grows, individuals increasingly seek safer alternatives, prioritizing health and sustainability.