The average person buys dozens of products each day at the grocery store, shopping mall, or pharmacy. We expect products to work as expected and not cause injuries. When large companies put dangerous products in the marketplace, innocent people end up hurt and they have no idea what to do. Sometimes, these victims end up with serious illnesses like cancer, all caused by dangerous chemicals in otherwise ordinary everyday products.
Hair relaxers and straighteners are some of these dangerous products sold in pharmacies and salons around Georgia. In the past year, hundreds of people have filed lawsuits around the country due to the increased risk of uterine cancer caused by these products. If you have developed cancer and have used straighteners or relaxers, these chemicals might be to blame. Please call our firm. Below, we answer some of the most common questions posed by members of the public. We can provide additional information in a free consultation.
Which hair relaxers are dangerous?
There are many. Some of the most prominent companies and products include:
- L’Oréal USA: Mizani, Dark & Lovely, Optimum
- Strength of Nature: African Pride, Soft & Beautiful, Just for Me, TCB Naturals and more
- Dabur International: ORS Olive Oil
- Revlon: Crème of Nature, Revlon Realistic, Revlon Professional, All Ways Natural Relaxer, and more
- Avalon Industries: Affirm
The most prominent brands tend to use similar formulas, which means they probably contain the same chemicals. If you don’t see your preferred product listed here, still call! This is only a partial list.
What chemicals are linked to cancer?
Multiple studies have found harmful chemicals in hair straightening and relaxer products. Some of the most dangerous include:
- Formaldehyde: Many hair straightening products have high levels of formaldehyde, which can increase cancer risk.
- Metals: Some metals in hair straightening products are carcinogenic, meaning they cause cancer.
- Parabens: Parabens are known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Researchers have linked them to cancer in various laboratory studies.
- Phthalates: Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) has been linked to hormonal disruption in humans, and those with endometrial cancer have higher phthalate levels than other people.
The American Cancer Society reported that regular exposure to these chemicals increased a woman’s risk of developing uterine cancer by 2.5. Research is ongoing, and scientists might link other chemicals in these products to cancer.
How can these companies sell dangerous products that cause cancer?
This is an excellent question. The reality is that the U.S. government doesn’t require testing of most products for chemicals which trigger hormone production. The only products tested for this purpose are pesticides and drinking water. To date, no law or regulation has required testing of hair products. Scientists are only now uncovering links between dangerous chemicals in hair straighteners and relaxers and cancer.
What is the average settlement for these lawsuits?
We don’t have enough information yet. These cases are new and still winding their way through the court system. However, we can discuss your individual case to determine how much compensation you might request.
Our clients often have medical expenses related to their cancer, such as hospitalization bills, chemotherapy, radiation, surgical costs, and other medical expenses. We can also seek compensation for lost income and pain and suffering.
Do I need a lawyer to help me?
There are many advantages to hiring a lawyer. Trying to sue a large corporation is an uphill climb. These companies have hundreds of lawyers working night and day to defend them from injured people. Very few people can handle federal court litigation on their own.
If hired, our legal team can:
- Analyze whether you have a claim. Not everyone who used a straightener or relaxer product will qualify for compensation.
- Discuss ways to obtain necessary evidence that you were harmed by these dangerous products.
- File a lawsuit in the correct court against the right defendants.
- Work to negotiate a fair settlement for your injuries, including treatment related to your cancer.
- Litigate in court, if necessary, to secure reasonable compensation for your cancer.
How do I know if I qualify for a settlement?
There are certain requirements:
- You have ovarian or uterine cancer.
- You used the product at least 4 times per year for a minimum of two years.
- You can prove with valid evidence you used the product.
Our law firm is eager to hear your story and help you understand if you can maintain a claim.
I’m not sure which product I used?
You should still call an attorney. There are ways to find out which item you likely used. For example, you might have had a relaxer put in at a salon, and they keep records of the products they use. Our experienced attorneys can help build the factual basis for a claim, so do not hesitate to call.
How much time do I have to sue?
The window of time is limited. In Georgia product liability cases, you only get two years. You should meet with a lawyer at our firm as soon as possible.
Should I contact the company directly about my case?
No! The company will not send you money even if you have proof it injured you. All they would do is refer you to their attorney. It is much better to call a lawyer at Stewart Miller Simmons Trial Attorneys to review your case. You need a professional lawyer in your corner who can stand up for your rights.
The company is in New York—why would I call a lawyer in Georgia?
If you purchased or used the product in Georgia, then you should work with an attorney who lives near you. We can make sure to file a lawsuit in the appropriate federal court. We are also prepared to handle negotiations on your behalf if you have a valid case.
Have More Questions? Do Not Hesitate to Call
It is outrageous that companies put public safety at risk by selling straighteners and relaxers with dangerous chemicals. Contact Stewart Miller Simmons through our partnership with Rueb Stoller Daniel, LLP at 1 800-788-3311. We offer a free consultation.