Biotech
Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 2:05 pm EDT
Key Points
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing a ban on the use of formaldehyde as an ingredient in hair relaxers, with a focus on raising awareness about the potential harms these products pose, particularly for Black women who are frequent users.
- Formaldehyde is a toxic substance that can be found in various household products, including cosmetics, and is linked to health issues such as irritation, cancers like myeloid leukemia, and other adverse effects. The ban would target hair-smoothing or hair-straightening products, even though the FDA already discourages their use.
- Research has highlighted the potential dangers of chemical hair relaxers, with studies showing an increased risk of uterine cancer and other health problems associated with their use. Several Black women have sued cosmetic brands, alleging that these products caused serious health complications. The FDA’s proposed ban aligns with ongoing efforts to address the health risks and discrimination related to hair texture, including policies like the CROWN Act, which has been adopted by over 20 states. The proposed ban’s target date is April.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking steps to ban the use of formaldehyde as an ingredient in hair relaxers, with a focus on raising awareness of potential harm to Black women who frequently use such products. Formaldehyde is a toxic substance used in various household items, including cosmetics, and can cause irritation and is linked to certain cancers. The proposed rule would prohibit the use of formaldehyde in hair-smoothing or hair-straightening products, which are commonly known as relaxers.
Even products that don’t contain formaldehyde as a primary ingredient may include other substances that can be converted into formaldehyde when heated. Research has drawn attention to the potential risks associated with chemical hair relaxers, including a higher risk of uterine cancer for women who use them frequently. A recent study found that postmenopausal Black women who used chemical hair straighteners over the long term were at an increased risk of developing uterine cancer.
Furthermore, endocrine disruptors found in hair straighteners can interfere with the body’s hormone system, leading to early puberty, fibroid tumors, infertility, and other health issues. In response to concerns raised by advocates and lawmakers, the FDA is proposing this ban on formaldehyde in hair relaxers. This move comes after Reps. Ayanna Pressley and Shontel Brown requested an investigation into the potential carcinogens in these products, highlighting that many Black women use them due to societal standards and anti-Black hair sentiment. Additionally, policies like the CROWN Act, which aims to prevent discrimination based on hair texture, have gained momentum in various states. The FDA’s proposed ban is set for April.
For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/18/fda-proposes-ban-on-hair-relaxers-with-formaldehyde.html
