FDA Proposes Ban on Hair-Smoothing and Hair-Straightening Products Containing Formaldehyde Due to Potential Health Risks

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing a ban on hair-smoothing and hair-straightening products containing formaldehyde due to potential health impacts. The FDA notes that the use of these products, which break down proteins in hair to straighten it, is linked to short-term adverse health effects such as sensitization reactions and breathing problems, as well as long-term adverse health effects, including an increased risk of certain cancers.

Several landmark studies have been published in the last year that highlight the link between chemical hair relaxers and increased rates of uterine cancer. This has prompted Democratic Reps. Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts and Shontel Brown of Ohio to pressure the FDA to take action.

In response to this pressure, the FDA has proposed a ban on hair-smoothing and hair-straightening products containing formaldehyde, an ingredient known to cause cancer. This proposed ban is still in the early stages, and the FDA is currently seeking public comment on the issue.

As more research continues to reveal potential dangers, hundreds of Black people have filed lawsuits against big-name beauty and cosmetic retailers like L’Oreal and Revlon, blaming their chemical hair straighteners as the cause of their health issues. It is unclear how the FDA’s proposed ban will affect these lawsuits.

The FDA is encouraging the public to submit comments on the proposed ban, which will be open for the next 60 days. The agency will then review the comments and make a final decision on the ban.