The Food and Drug Administration has failed to release a proposed ban on formaldehyde in hair-straightening products, despite an association between these products used mostly by Black women and cancer. The FDA has not provided any reason for the delay and has not responded to inquiries. Recent studies have shown an increase in uterine cancer among Black women who regularly use hair relaxers, leading to class-action lawsuits against major beauty product manufacturers. Some women believe the ingredients in these products have caused them to develop severe health problems, including cancer.
L’Oreal has stated that their products do not contain formaldehyde and would welcome the FDA’s ban. The company emphasized its commitment to consumer health and safety through rigorous scientific evaluation and adherence to regulations in all markets. Formaldehyde, a highly toxic substance linked to certain cancers, can be found in many household products, including some chemical hair-straighteners. A significant percentage of products marketed to Black women contain chemicals that release formaldehyde when heated, posing health risks such as sensitization reactions, breathing problems, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
The FDA’s proposal to ban harmful chemicals in hair relaxers is seen as a positive step by Democratic Reps. Ayanna Pressley and Shontel Brown, who have urged more regulation over products marketed to Black women. Pressley emphasized the importance of protecting the health of Black women who have faced disproportionately higher risks due to systemic racism and societal pressures. The Environmental Working Group has been advocating for a ban on hair products containing formaldehyde since 2011, highlighting the FDA’s clear authority to regulate ingredients that make products unsafe for use.
The FDA’s delay in releasing the proposed ban on formaldehyde in hair products highlights the challenges faced in regulating the cosmetics industry, which has historically had less oversight compared to food and drugs. The Environmental Working Group has petitioned the FDA multiple times to take action on this issue, emphasizing the clear authority the agency has to ban harmful ingredients. Melanie Benesh, the vice president of government affairs for the Environmental Working Group, described the cosmetics industry as the “Wild, Wild West of regulation” due to the FDA’s limited authority in this area. The FDA’s inaction on this matter raises concerns about the safety of products marketed towards Black women and highlights the need for stronger regulation to protect consumer health.
