U.S. Lawmakers Urge FDA Action on Hair Straightener Health Risks
Representatives press FDA to ban formaldehyde-containing hair products, citing cancer risks. Delayed action raises concerns about health impacts on Black women, who face hair discrimination.
Representatives Ayanna Pressley, Shontel Brown, and Nydia Velazquez are urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to expedite its proposed ban on certain hair straightening products. The lawmakers, all facing re-election this year, have expressed concern over the FDA's repeated delays in addressing the health risks associated with these products, which are primarily used by Black women.
In a letter dated August 27, 2024, the representatives questioned FDA Commissioner Robert Califf about the specific reasons for postponing the proposal's release. Initially slated for April 2024, the target date was moved to July and then to September 2024. This push for action follows the representatives' initial call for an FDA investigation in 2023.
The proposed ban focuses on hair straighteners containing formaldehyde, a chemical first reported in 1859 and commonly used in various industries. Studies have linked these products to increased cancer risks, particularly uterine cancer. A 2022 National Institutes of Health study and a 2023 Boston University research both indicated higher cancer risks among users of chemical hair straighteners.
Ayanna Pressley highlighted the issue of hair discrimination faced by Black women, which often leads to the use of potentially harmful hair treatments. She stated, "If you do a Google search right now of unprofessional work hairstyles, you'll be besieged by images of Black women." Pressley emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to present themselves authentically without fear of discrimination.
The history of commercial hair straightening products dates back to the early 1900s, with the first patent for a hair relaxer granted in 1909. Since then, the cosmetics industry has grown significantly, valued at approximately $380 billion globally in 2023.
Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against beauty companies, alleging misrepresentation of health impacts and exposure to chemicals increasing cancer risks. Some plaintiffs also claim fertility issues after using these products.
The FDA, established in 1906, has stated that the proposed ban remains a top priority. However, the agency has not commented on the timing or content of the proposal. In October 2023, the FDA released a social media video reminding the public that no ban was yet in place and expressing plans to work with the cosmetics industry to develop safer alternatives.
It's worth noting that regulatory delays are not uncommon. For instance, a proposed ban on menthol cigarettes, initially drafted in 2022, has been indefinitely delayed since April 2024.
As the debate continues, it's crucial to recognize the broader implications of this issue. Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women in the United States, underscoring the importance of addressing potential risk factors.
"I just want everyone to be able to show up fully, authentically and unapologetically, without fear and without discrimination."
The ongoing discussion highlights the complex intersection of health, beauty standards, and racial discrimination in the United States. As lawmakers and health agencies grapple with these issues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, particularly those in communities disproportionately affected by potentially harmful beauty practices.
