Is There Formaldehyde in Hair Relaxers?

Recent studies have linked hair relaxers to severe health problems, including endometriosis and several forms of cancer. Many hair relaxers contain the chemical formaldehyde, which is believed to be a main contributing factor to this.

Learn about hair relaxers and the dangers associated with formaldehyde below. For those who receive a cancer diagnosis after regularly using hair relaxers, we can provide legal help. Contact us for a free consultation.

What Is Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is a colorless chemical that emits a strong odor. It is a chemical used in many industries and products. People can inadvertently inhale, absorb, or consume formaldehyde, which can lead to health issues. 

Studies have linked formaldehyde exposure to cancer. People who inhale formaldehyde gas face a higher risk than others of cancers in the nose and leukemia. Research is ongoing as scientists continue to explore the link between formaldehyde and cancer. 

Formaldehyde is an ingredient in many hair relaxer products, which can release the chemical when heated. This means a person using a formaldehyde-based hair relaxer faces an increased risk of cancer. If this individual uses a relaxer for hair frequently, their risk of cancer rises accordingly.     

What Are the Health Effects of Formaldehyde Exposure?

People are primarily exposed to formaldehyde by breathing in air that contains the chemical. The National Cancer Institute notes formaldehyde in the air at levels exceeding 0.1 parts per million (ppm) can cause various short-term symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Burning sensation in the eyes, nose, and/or throat
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Skin irritation

A study of funeral workers between 1960 and 1986 showed the long-term impact of formaldehyde exposure. In the study, researchers found funeral workers who died of hematopoietic and lymphatic cancers and brain tumors had a higher level of exposure to formaldehyde than other study participants. Additional studies have been completed since that time that links formaldehyde to leukemia, brain tumors, and other serious health issues. 

In instances where a person has been using a hair relaxer for years and is diagnosed with cancer or another long-term health problem, it is possible to pursue damages. By partnering with a product liability attorney, an individual can sue any parties that contributed to their health issue. This individual may be eligible to receive economic and non-economic damages. 

What Should I Do if I Am Diagnosed with Cancer and Use a Hair Relaxer?

Those who believe they may be dealing with cancer or any other health condition should meet with a doctor. At this point, a doctor can review a person’s symptoms and help this individual identify their root cause. The doctor can perform various tests and provide this individual with a diagnosis and treatment plan. 

If a person receives a cancer diagnosis, their doctor can explain whether it is safe for this individual to continue to use hair relaxer products that contain formaldehyde. Doctors can help their patients manage their cancer symptoms. Plus, the doctor can provide ongoing medical care to the patient. 

In instances where a hair relaxer cancer diagnosis may be related to a hair relaxer product, it can be helpful to consult with an attorney. Hiring a product liability attorney allows a person to seek damages against a hair relaxer company. An individual may request tens of thousands of dollars from a hair relaxer company as compensation for any medical treatments or other expenses related to their cancer diagnosis. 

What Will Happen if I File a Lawsuit Due to Exposure to Formaldehyde in a Hair Relaxer?

Filing a hair relaxer lawsuit offers no guarantees. Ideally, an individual can request damages from a hair relaxer company and any other at-fault parties. From here, the case will be settled immediately, and the plaintiff will get the maximum amount of damages possible. 

A typical hair relaxer lawsuit can require months or years to complete, and a hair relaxer lawyer helps their client navigate the complexities of litigation. Over the course of the litigation, it pays to have an experienced hair relaxer attorney on hand. A hair relaxer lawyer works diligently on a plaintiff’s behalf and ensures this individual is well-positioned for legal success. 

In the time leading up to a trial date, an attorney with hair relaxer case experience helps the plaintiff plan ahead. The lawyer and their client gather evidence and consider how to present it during the trial. Also, the attorney ensures the plaintiff knows what to expect during the trial and remains calm, cool, and collected as the proceedings begin. 

Do I Need to Take a Settlement Offer in a Lawsuit for Formaldehyde Exposure in a Hair Relaxer?

During a hair relaxer lawsuit, a defendant may come forward with a settlement offer. If this happens, a plaintiff can review the offer and decide how to proceed. By accepting the offer, the plaintiff can receive a quick settlement that closes their case. 

It can be tempting to accept a settlement offer in a lawsuit relating to formaldehyde exposure in a hair relaxer. However, it is not always in a plaintiff’s best interest to approve a settlement proposal. Instead, a plaintiff should examine a settlement offer and consider the immediate and long-term ramifications of accepting it before making their decision. 

A lawyer with hair relaxer case expertise can help a plaintiff review a settlement offer. The attorney can provide insights into what can happen if a plaintiff accepts a settlement proposal. This can help a plaintiff make an informed decision.  

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer if I Am Exposed to Formaldehyde in a Hair Relaxer?

Hiring a lawyer allows an individual to receive comprehensive legal help with a hair relaxer lawsuit. The attorney can provide legal tips and insights throughout a plaintiff’s litigation. In addition, the lawyer can help a plaintiff build a compelling argument. 

When choosing an attorney for a hair relaxer lawsuit, look at a lawyer’s experience. It helps to consider an attorney from a law firm with a proven reputation. This lawyer understands the legal process and can help a plaintiff achieve their desired case result. 

It is beneficial to select an attorney with hair relaxer case experience, too. This lawyer can help their client navigate the legal process. The attorney is available to respond to their client’s legal concerns and questions as well. 

How Can I Hire an Attorney if I Am Exposed to Formaldehyde in a Hair Relaxer?

John Foy & Associates makes it simple to connect with a hair relaxer lawyer. We can review your legal claim and help you file a lawsuit against a hair relaxer company. For more information or to request a free case evaluation, please contact us today.