650,000+ Fans and Followers:

Home        Find A Job       Directory       Health Tips          Home Invites Members Groups Events Careers Videos News Photos Blogs Polls Chat Home > News > Post Content Toxic Hair Relaxers and Uterine Cancer Link: 4 Safer Alternatives to Toxic Straighteners for Black Women (263 hits) Over the past decade, a growing body of clinical research has called into question the safety of hair care products due to unsafe chemicals in their composition that can potentially trigger debilitating diseases. Last year, a study conducted by the National Institute for Health found that prolonged use of hair relaxer products was linked to higher risks of developing uterine cancer (UC). Researchers tracked hair product use among approximately 34,000 US women between the ages of 35 and 74 who participated in the broader Sister Study. 378 cases of uterine cancer were diagnosed over an average of 11 years. However, individuals that frequently used hair relaxers (more than 4 times a year) had a UC incidence rate of 4.06%, or two and a half times higher than people who never used them (1.46%). More importantly, this correlation didn't apply to any other hair care products. While UC isn't as common as other types, it remains the most prevalent gynecological cancer among US women, with nearly 66,000 diagnoses and 12,550 related deaths estimated in 2022. Other similar studies have also found that individuals who use hair relaxers face higher risks of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, as well as breast and ovarian cancer. Researchers consider these debilitating conditions are most likely caused by hazardous chemicals known for their carcinogenic and hormone-disrupting potential, including bisphenol A, dimethyl sulfoxide, phthalates, parabens, and formaldehyde. An even more concerning correlation is that while UC cancer rates have been steadily rising, Black women seem to face more pronounced risks, representing around 60% of respondents who reported frequently using hair relaxers. This discrepancy is partly driven by higher societal pressures for African-American women to conform to outdated hairstyle standards, meaning that they're more likely to use such products at younger ages, but also due to manufacturers marketing more intensively towards the Black demographic. In October 2022, the first lawsuit against hair relaxer manufacturers was filed in Illinois by an African-American woman from Missouri who claims that her prolonged and regular use of hair straightening products since the age of 8 led to her UC diagnosis and subsequent hysterectomy at only 28 years old. Since then, even more scandalized consumers have filed similar claims against leading industry names like L'Oreal, Dabur International, Namaste Laboratories, SoftSheen Carson, Godrej Consumer Products, and House of Cheatham. While the wave of litigation is likely to increase, and the FDA's newly bolstered regulatory abilities will mandate stricter safety standards for cosmetic companies in the near future, vulnerable consumers are still exposed to questionable chemicals currently available on store shelves. Fortunately, a few non-toxic alternatives and approaches can help individuals with naturally textured hair achieve their desired look. 1. Straightening The most effective and easily accessible method to achieve smooth and sleek hair is simply straightening it using heat-mediated tools like a flat iron. Although this method requires up to one hour of attentive effort or even longer, it can be done in the comfort of one's home without having to worry about any dangerous chemical ingredients. However, since this method relies on high temperature and pressure to flatten hair, it's recommended to opt for a flat iron with adjustable heat controls. Similarly, heat-protectant solutions (spray, cream, serum) can help prevent temperature-induced damage. 2. Blow Drying Blow drying is another alternative to toxic hair relaxers that can help anyone look presentable and well-groomed. Affordable and easily-portable hair dryer and blow-drying brush options abound on the market, and finding one that suits a particular type of hair only requires carefully selecting the right tool for the task. The only drawback to this method is that it may weaken and ruin hair texture with repeated use, reducing its natural shine and brightness. 3. Unprocessed Vegetable Oils As a mainstay of DIY and at-home treatments, vegetable oils have been used for centuries to help smoothen and soften hair with exceptional results. The most commonly-used varieties that people vouch for include olive, coconut, avocado, almond, argan, and jojoba oil, which provide the added benefits of vitamins A, E, and D that nourish and moisturize the scalp. While they're relatively easy to get a hold of, it's recommended to exercise caution and avoid processed or cooking oils loaded with trans fats and fatty acids, opting instead for cold-pressed, virgin varieties. Although they can also promote hair growth, relieve inflammation and protect against sun damage, they may weigh down the hair and require a more careful cleaning process. 4. Keratin Treatments Since it's what hair is made of, keratin treatments seem to make the most sense for people with naturally wavy or curly hair. During this process, keratin proteins are absorbed through the porous areas of the hair, helping to strengthen and straighten it while providing a healthy and sleek look. Though this type of treatment is more financially restrictive, ranging between $200 - $600, it has the added advantage of lasting up to 6 months or longer, thus attenuating expenses over time. However, it's recommended to remain cautious and check ingredient listings, as some formulations have been found to contain formaldehyde. About the Author Miguel Leyva serves as a case manager at Atraxia Law, helping individuals injured by unsafe substances gather and organize the information needed to support their claims against liable manufacturers. Posted By: Miguel Leyva Tuesday, February 28th 2023 at 7:17AM You can also click here to view all posts by this author... Report obscenity | post comment Share | Please Login To Post Comments... Email: Password:   Forward This Article Entry! News Home Featured Opportunities! Who's Online >> more | invite  Home | Careers | Your Sites | Browse Communities | Business Users | Links | Help | Terms | Privacy Policy | About Us | Advertise | Contact Us Created By Dante Lee and Powered By ConnectPlatform.com Copyright © 2013