THE DANGERS OF HAIR STRAIGHTENER PRODUCTS AND OTHER STRAIGHTENING TREATMENTS

The Dangers of Hair Straightener Products and Other Straightening Treatments

8/1/2023

If you used hair straightener products and suffered hair straightener side effects, contact Nashville hair straightener lawyer Timothy L. Miles

Hair straightening has become a popular trend, with many individuals seeking sleek, straight hair. However, recent studies have revealed alarming information about the potential dangers associated with hair straightener products and other treatments used to achieve straightened hair. From an increased risk of cancer to harmful side effects, it is crucial to understand the potential risks before using these products. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the research findings, the chemicals involved, the specific health concerns, and what you can do if you have been affected. Let us delve into the world of hair straightening products and uncover the truth behind these products.

The Link Between Hair Straightener Products and Cancer

Numerous studies have suggested a connection between the use of hair straightener products and an increased risk of various types of cancer. Breast and ovarian cancers have been the most notable, but a recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) has also linked hair straightener products to uterine cancer. The study found that women who frequently used these products had over a two-fold higher risk of developing uterine cancer compared to those who did not use them.

Interestingly, the risk of uterine cancer was found to be more pronounced in Black females. While they made up only a small percentage of the study participants, they accounted for a significant portion of the reported cases. This may be attributed to the higher usage of hair straightener products among Black women, as they tend to use multiple products simultaneously, resulting in higher concentrations of hormone-disrupting chemicals in their systems.

To understand the potential dangers of hair straightener products, we need to examine the chemicals commonly found in these products. Some of the most concerning chemicals include:

Formaldehyde
According to the FDA, Formaldehyde exposure can cause both short- and long-term effects that may impact your health. The FDA also states that exposure to formaldehyde is dangerous because when it is released into the air and is present in air at levels exceeding 0.1 ppm, it can cause serious irritation of your eyes, nose, and lungs, as well as causing skin sensitivity or allergic dermatitis. The greater the exposure to products that contain formaldehyde such as hair straightener products, the greater the risk for potential health problems.

People who have experienced formaldehyde exposure have suffered the following reactions:

eye problems or irritation
nervous system problems
respiratory tract problems
nausea
chest pain
vomiting, and rashes.

Chronic effects associated with formaldehyde can include:

an increased prevalence of headaches,
asthma,
contact dermatitis
and possibly cancer.

Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide, also referred to caustic soda or lye s a common ingredient in cleaners, soaps, detergents, and liquid drain cleaners. Sodium hydroxide is a very dangerous substance that can cause severe burns to the eyes, skin, digestive system or lungs, resulting in permanent damage or death.

Cyclosiloxanes
Cyclosiloxanes are basic members of the broad family of silicone materials. A study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) to examine to toxicity of cyclosiloxanes found that it produced fatal liver and lung damage in mice.

Diethanolamine
Diethanolamine is corrosive and contact can irritate and burn the skin, eyes and cause possible eye damage. It is used in specialty textiles, weed killers, detergents, shampoos, paints and metal-working fluids. Inhaling diethanolamine can irritate the nose and throat causing coughing and wheezing. Expose to diethanolamine cause also cause headaches, nausea, and vomiting, and may affect the liver and kidneys. Diethanolamine is listed on the Special Health Hazard Substance List. Diethanolamine is also one of the primary feedstocks (substances used to produce other substances) for the production of glyphosate, a pesticide which is a component of Roundup.

Triclosan
According to the FDA, some short-term animal studies have shown that exposure to high doses of triclosan is associated with a decrease in the levels of some thyroid hormones. An ongoing study is investigating the potential of developing skin cancer after a long-term exposure to triclosan in animals. Triclosan has also has been linked to disrupted hormonal development, a reduction in bacterial resistance and an increase in allergies. Additionally, according to the Australian Department of Health, it can also irritate the eyes and skin. Some hospitals have stopped using sanitizing products containing Triclosan. Triclosan is among the seven most frequently detected compounds in streams and it has even been detected in the urine and breast milk of large portions of the population.

Benzophenone-3
Wearing products that contain Benzophenone-3 has resulted in a skin allergy or photo allergy, a skin reaction that occurs with exposure to sunlight. Benzophenone-3 has also been shown to cause weak hormonal activity in laboratory animals. Furthermore, according to the NIH, “Studies show that BP-3, after topical application, can penetrate into bloodstream, blood-brain barrier and blood-placental barrier and may induce the reproductive toxicity and abnormal development of the foetus, endocrine system disruption and neurotoxicity in experimental animal models.”

Phthalates
Phthalates are detrimental to the reproductive, neurological, and developmental systems of human from multiple exposure pathways. According to the NIH, “Phthalates, as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and SVOCs, are detrimental to the reproductive, neurological, and developmental systems of human from multiple exposure pathways. Children are at a higher level of exposure and more vulnerable to phthalates.” Many phthalates are banned and restricted in multiple countries.

Parabens
Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used as artificial preservatives in cosmetic and body care products since the 1920s. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), “The concern with these chemicals is that scientific studies suggest that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. They can also cause skin irritation. Moreover, studies have detected parabens in nearly all urine samples taken from adults in the U.S., regardless of demographic.” The EWG concluded that “Given the endocrine disruption capacity and documented female and male reproductive harm, coupled with the potential for repeated lifelong exposure, it is clear that long-chain parabens (isobutyl-, butyl-, isopropyl- and propylparaben) should not be used in personal care or cosmetic products.”

Hair Straightener Products and Uterine Cancer

The aforementioned study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) revealed alarming statistics about the risk of uterine cancer associated with hair straightener products. Women who frequently used these products had a significantly higher risk of developing uterine cancer compared to those who did not use them. The risk was found to be over two times higher for frequent users.

Furthermore, the study highlighted the disproportionate impact on Black females. Although they represented a small percentage of the study participants, a significant number of Black women reported using hair straightener products. This higher exposure may contribute to the increased risk of uterine cancer among this demographic.

Other Health Concerns and Side Effects

In addition to the link between hair straightener products and cancer, there are other concerning health effects associated with these products. Some of the reported side effects include:

Allergic Reactions. Hair straightener products can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. These reactions may manifest as skin rashes, itching, swelling, or hives.

Burns. Improper use of hair straighteners or exposure to high heat can result in burns on the scalp or skin. These burns can range from mild to severe, causing pain, blistering, and potential scarring.

Hair Damage and Hair Loss. Chemical hair straightening treatments can cause damage to the hair shaft, leading to increased hair breakage, frizziness, and overall hair loss. Prolonged use of these products may result in thinning hair or even bald patches.

Scalp Irritation and Inflammation. Chemicals in hair straightener products can irritate the scalp, causing redness, itching, and inflammation. This can lead to discomfort and potential long-term scalp issues.

Skin and Eye Irritation. Some individuals may experience skin or eye irritation when exposed to hair straightener products. This can include redness, itching, burning, or watery eyes.

It is important to note that these side effects may vary from person to person, and some individuals may not experience any adverse reactions. However, the potential risks associated with these products should not be ignored.

Seeking Legal Help for Hair Straightener Side Effects

If you have experienced significant hair straightener side effects, such as cancer, hair loss, or other health issues, you may be eligible to pursue legal action against the manufacturers of these products. Hair straightener lawsuits have been filed by individuals who believe their health was compromised due to the use of these products.

To determine if you have a valid hair straightener lawsuit, it is recommended to consult with an experienced attorney who practices in product liability cases. They can evaluate your situation, gather evidence, and guide you through the legal process. It is important to act promptly, as there may be time limitations for filing a lawsuit.

In Tennessee, you can reach out to Nashville Hair Straightener Lawyer Timothy L. Miles for a free case evaluation. He can help determine if you are eligible for a hair straightener lawsuit.