The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has unveiled its plan to propose a groundbreaking rule that would ban hair-straightening products, often known as chemical relaxers. This comes in response to mounting evidence connecting these products, specifically those containing formaldehyde, to health risks, including certain hormone-related cancers like breast cancer and uterine cancer.
UNDERSTANDING THE PROPOSED RULE
The proposed rule aims to prohibit hair-smoothing products that include formaldehyde or other formaldehyde-releasing chemicals like methylene glycol. Once this proposal is issued, the FDA will open the floor for public comments, and following a thorough review, the agency will determine the next course of action in line with its guidelines.
HOW FORMALDEHYDE IS RELEASED IN HAIR STRAIGHTENING?
The process of releasing formaldehyde begins with the application of the smoothing solution to the hair, followed by a heat processing step, usually involving a flat-iron device. It’s during this heat treatment that formaldehyde gas, classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, is released.
UTERINE CANCER RISK DOUBLED FOR FREQUENT USERS
A recent study conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) highlighted a significant concern. Women, who used hair-straightening products frequently, more than four times in the previous year, were found to have more than double the risk of developing uterine cancer compared to non-users. However, it’s essential to note that uterine cancer remains relatively rare.
The study also examined other hair treatments like dye, bleach, highlights, and perms, and no increased cancer risk was associated with these products.
DISPROPORTIONATE IMPACT ON BLACK WOMEN
Black women are disproportionately affected by the risks associated with hair straightening products. About three in five participants who reported frequent use of these products identified as Black women. Given that Black women tend to use these products more frequently and start at earlier ages, the risks may be even more relevant to them.
ADVOCATING FOR SAFETY
In response to these findings, congressional representatives, including Ayanna Pressley and Shontel Brown, have called for an FDA investigation into the health risks posed by hair straighteners. They argue that these products are primarily marketed to and used by Black women, contributing to national racial health disparities.
UTERINE CANCER RATES ON THE RISE
Uterine cancer, though still relatively rare, has seen a rise in rates in the U.S. Unlike many other cancers, uterine cancer cases have been increasing, with aggressive subtypes becoming more prevalent, particularly among Black women.
USING HAIR PRODUCTS WITH CAUTION
Until the proposed rule becomes official, the FDA advises caution when using hair smoothing products. Women are discouraged from applying these products at home, and proper salon ventilation is recommended if you choose to have the treatment done professionally. It’s also crucial to inquire about formaldehyde content and explore alternative products that don’t release this hazardous gas.
However, it’s worth noting that identifying formaldehyde-containing products can be challenging, even if they are not explicitly labelled as such. Certain synonyms and chemicals released during the heating process may still pose risks.
