Se Habla Español
(855) 659-4457
Never Settle For Less

Chemical Hair Straightener Lawsuit

Product Liability
$1,000,000,000
$0
View More
Product Liability
$1,000,000,000
Recovery for the state of Alabama for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill of 2010.
Sexual Abuse
$360,000,000
$0
View More
Sexual Abuse
$360,000,000
Verdict in a civil trial for sexual abuse and negligence.
Car Accidents
$60,000,000
$0
View More
Car Accidents
$60,000,000
Head-on collision involving commercial vehicle resulting in traumatic brain injury.

Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Attorneys

Helping Women Harmed by Toxic Chemical Hair Straighteners

Women who have suffered severe health problems, including uterine cancer, from chemical hair relaxers and straighteners may have significant legal recourse. Our experienced hair relaxer uterine cancer lawyers at Breit Biniazan are actively investigating claims against L’Oréal and other manufacturers of popular hair straightening products that contain toxic chemicals. If you believe your health has been impacted, contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation to understand your legal options and pursue the justice you deserve.

What Are Hair Relaxers and Why Are They Harmful?

Hair relaxers, commonly used to straighten curly or textured hair, often contain powerful chemicals such as sodium hydroxide (lye), ammonium thioglycolate, and formaldehyde. Many of these substances are known endocrine disruptors—chemicals that interfere with the body's hormone system—and can be absorbed into the bloodstream through scalp exposure. This absorption has been scientifically linked to a range of serious health risks, including uterine and endometrial cancer.

Examples of Chemicals in Hair Straighteners That Can Lead to Cancer

These carcinogenic or endocrine-disrupting chemicals in hair relaxers contribute to increased cancer risk:

  • Formaldehyde: Known human carcinogen linked to several cancers.
  • Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): Alkali that can cause tissue damage leading to cancer.
  • Phthalates and Parabens: Hormone disruptors linked to reproductive cancers.
  • Other Toxic Compounds: Benzophenone-3, triclosan, and cyclosiloxanes.

Key Studies Linking Hair Relaxers to Uterine Cancer

A growing body of scientific research reinforces the link between chemical hair relaxers and an increased risk of uterine cancer and other reproductive cancers:

  • 2022 NIH Study (Journal of the National Cancer Institute): This landmark study, which followed 33,497 U.S. women for nearly 11 years, found that frequent users (more than four times in the previous year) had more than double the risk of developing uterine cancer compared to those who did not use these products. It estimated that the risk of uterine cancer by age 70 for never-users was 1.64%, but for frequent users, this risk rose to 4.05%.
  • 2023 Black Women's Health Study (Environmental Research): A significant analysis from Boston University, published in October 2023, found that long-term use of chemical hair relaxers by postmenopausal Black women was associated with a greater than 50% increased risk of uterine cancer for those who used relaxers more than twice a year or for over five years, compared to women who never or rarely used them.
  • Ongoing Research: Other studies continue to explore the link between hair products and various cancers, highlighting the presence of endocrine disruptors and carcinogens in these formulations.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Alarming evidence indicates that Black women are disproportionately affected by the health risks associated with chemical hair relaxers. 

This disparity stems from several factors related to product use and historical beauty standards:

  • Higher Usage Rates: Black women are the primary consumers of chemical hair straighteners and relaxers, using these products at significantly higher rates—often twice that of white women. Up to 95% of adult Black women in the U.S. have reported using hair relaxers at some point in their lives.
  • Increased Exposure: Due to more frequent application, earlier initiation of use (often in childhood), and long-term consistent use, Black women face a greater cumulative exposure to harmful chemicals over their lifetime.
  • Aggressive Cancer Types: Research shows that Black women not only have higher incidence rates of uterine cancer, but they are also more likely to be diagnosed with more aggressive subtypes and at later stages, leading to nearly twice the mortality rate from uterine cancer compared to white women. For example, from 2018-2022, the uterine cancer mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black females was 9.5 per 100,000, compared to 4.7 per 100,000 for non-Hispanic White females.
  • Product Availability: Studies have also pointed to less availability of safer hair products in neighborhoods with higher compositions of racially minoritized and lower socioeconomic status residents, further contributing to disproportionate exposure.

This stark disparity underscores the urgency of legal efforts to represent and advocate for Black women who have been harmed by these products.

FDA Oversight and Product Regulation

While cosmetics such as hair relaxers and straighteners are not required to undergo FDA approval before being sold, they are subject to regulation under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) of 1938. This means:

  • Manufacturers must ensure the safety of their products and adhere to labeling guidelines.
  • They cannot use harmful ingredients or make false claims.
  • They are expected to provide information about proper use and potential risks.
  • Companies are also required to register their products with the FDA, list active ingredients, and report any significant problems.

Despite these regulations, many manufacturers are accused of failing to adequately warn consumers about the severe risks posed by the toxic ingredients in their products.

L’Oréal and Other Companies Named in Lawsuits

L’Oréal faces multiple class action lawsuits alleging failure to warn consumers about dangerous ingredients causing uterine cancer. Other brands implicated include:

  • Dark and Lovely
  • Just for Me
  • Motions
  • Olive Oil Girls
  • Soft & Beautiful
  • Strength of Nature Global LLC, among others

MDL No. 3060 consolidates many of these claims into multidistrict litigation for collective courthouse procedures.

Am I Eligible for a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?

You may qualify to file a claim for hair straightener cancer if:

  • You have been diagnosed with uterine or endometrial cancer.
  • You frequently used chemical hair relaxers or straighteners for several years.
  • You can provide medical records and evidence of product use.
  • Your condition developed after using these products.

Statute of Limitations for Hair Relaxer Lawsuits

The timeframe for filing a hair relaxer lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, is critical and varies by state. This legal deadline dictates how long you have from the date of your injury or the date you discovered your injury (or reasonably should have discovered it) to file a claim.

  • State-Specific Deadlines: Statutes of limitations typically range from one to six years, depending on your state's laws.
  • Discovery Rule: In many product liability cases, the "discovery rule" may apply, meaning the clock starts ticking when you first learn of a potential link between your illness and the product, not necessarily when you first used the product.
  • Statutes of Repose: Some states also have "statutes of repose," which can set an absolute deadline from the date a product was first sold or manufactured, regardless of when the injury was discovered. This is a complex area, particularly for injuries like cancer that may take many years to manifest.

It is crucial to speak with a product liability attorney as soon as possible to determine the specific statute of limitations that applies to your case, as missing this deadline can result in the permanent loss of your right to file a claim.

What Compensation Can Victims Seek?

Potential damages may include:

  • Medical expenses (diagnosis, treatment, long-term care)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Punitive damages in some cases

What to Expect in a Hair Relaxer Case

  • Many cases are part of MDL No. 3060 hair relaxer litigation, streamlining pretrial procedures.
  • Plaintiffs share discovery and legal resources, increasing efficiency.
  • Claims are reviewed on an individual basis for settlement or trial.
  • Our dedicated lawyers walk you through each step, from consultation to resolution.

Meet Our Mass Tort Team: Lee Floyd on the MDL Leadership

Partner Lee Floyd is an appointed member of the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee in MDL 3060, representing victims nationwide. With years of experience in pharmaceutical and product liability litigation, Lee ensures clients receive expert guidance and aggressive advocacy.

Contact Breit Biniazan: Free Case Evaluation

Contact Breit Biniazan today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our compassionate and skilled hair relaxer uterine cancer lawyers are ready to listen to your story, evaluate your claim, and help you understand how to protect your rights and seek the compensation you may deserve. Take the first step towards justice—call us now to schedule your free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the connection between hair relaxers and cancer?

Chemicals in relaxers, like formaldehyde and lye, can disrupt hormones and cause cellular damage linked to uterine cancer.

Is the cancer risk from chemical hair straighteners and relaxers disproportionately higher for black women?

According to the American Association of Dermatologists, black women are the primary consumers of chemical hair straighteners and relaxing shampoos, using these products at twice the rate of white women. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that black women are three times more likely to develop uterine cancer than white women. This increased risk may be due to the high usage of hair straighteners among black women or the concurrent use of multiple hair care products that could increase exposure to harmful ingredients.

Which hair relaxer and straightener companies are being sued?

At least eight companies are being sued in federal court for allegedly selling hair straightening devices that can cause severe burns and even death. These include:

  • Dark and Lovely
  • Just for Me
  • L’Oreal
  • Motions
  • Namaste
  • Olive Oil Girls
  • Optimum
  • Soft & Beautiful
  • Strength of Nature Global LLC
  • TCB Naturals

The lawsuit claims that the manufacturers did not adequately warn consumers about the risks associated with their products, and knew that they could cause serious injury, but still sold them. 

The defendants are accused of violating the Consumer Product Safety Act. The plaintiffs, who are seeking damages, include five women who claim to have sustained third-degree burns from using the hair straighteners, as well as one woman who died of uterine cancer.

What evidence is needed for a claim?

Medical records confirming cancer, proof of product use, and expert testimony linking the products to the injury.

Can I join a class action or MDL?

Yes, many cases are consolidated in MDL No. 3060, allowing collective legal action while preserving individual claims.

What damages can I recover?

Compensation may cover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by the injury.

Are chemical hair straighteners and relaxers FDA-approved? 

No, cosmetics like hair straighteners and relaxers do not require pre-market FDA approval. However, they are regulated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) of 1938. This means manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe, properly labeled, and do not contain harmful ingredients or make false claims. They must also report serious adverse events to the FDA.

Get Started
Call (855) 659-4457 for fill out the form below and request a free consultation.
Results that 
Build Trust

"I am a New York personal injury attorney. A friend asked me to find an excellent attorney to represent her nephew who lives in Virginia and was badly injured in a car accident there. Justin Sheldon from Breit Biniazan was very experienced and patient in explaining the legal process to his client. He obtained an excellent settlement and my friend and her nephew were both very pleased with the outcome. I highly recommend Justin Sheldon and the Breit Biniazan law firm if you require the services of a personal injury law firm in Virginia."

Denise K.

"Very professional, kind hearted and caring. I loved working with Sarah she did a stellar job representing me and assuring me that everything would work out. ❤️"

Jenine D.

"Had my incident back in 04/2021. Was referred to Breit and Justin Sheldon was my attorney for my case against insurance and personal injury case. Justin and his team was extremely pleasant to work with. They were always communicative at providing updates and feedback of the state of the situation. Year and a half later, never had any regrets trusting Breit to represent myself for my case."

Bryan H.

"Where do I start, From the beginning till now, EVERYONE that works for BREIT BINIAZAN Law Firm are very AWESOME especially Sarah and her team. Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything . I will recommend this law firm to anybody who needs help. Sarah and your team, please keep up the awesome work. You guys are the BEST. May God Bless All of You. Once again, Thank you Breit Biniazan Law Firm. Team#1 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️"

Sofia T.

"Sarah Sauble is by far the best lawyer I’ve ever worked with. She was very helpful and knowledgeable about the law and explaining legal terms in order for us to understand. Together with her paralegal, Elizabeth Rankan, they’re both great at what they do. Job well done ladies."

Theresa H.

"Sarah's unwavering support and dedication, coupled with her expertise, have been invaluable throughout my accident settlement case. I am profoundly grateful for all she has done, and her efforts have made a significant impact on my journey.I wholeheartedly endorse Sarah Gallo Sauble as well as the entire team at Breit Biniazan Law Firm, to anyone seeking legal assistance. Their professionalism and excellence are unparalleled."

Karen C.

"Sarah and the team at Breit Biniazan could not have been more professional, caring and informative. Throughout the whole process they would check on my condition, health and exchange any updates with medical care as well as the case itself. They walked me through each step, explained the expectations and possible outcomes while keeping it professional. The communication was always as easy as a text, email or call away and always responsive. If you're still looking for your team, look no further. Make the call, let Sarah provide the care you need and fight for the settlement you deserve. Thank you for fighting for me Sarah!"

John W.

"Sarah and Elizabeth were wonderful to work with. They are honest, professional and fair and worked very hard to settle our case in a timely fashion. They maintain positive and respectful relationships with opposing counsels to ensure that the client’s best interests are represented. I would highly recommend them to others and I would use them again if the situation were to arise."

C T

"Sara and her team were great to work with. I trusted them to take care of my case and they did. I would use

Them again in the future if I needed to."

Mary G.

"I reached out to Sarah G. Sable, about 9 months ago, from the beginning she assured me that she would take care of my case and that I had nothing to worry about.
Sarah stayed in contact with me every step of the way, she even answered my calls after hours to ensure that she was meeting my expectations, and answering all of my questions.

At trial Sarah represented me like no other. Even the Judge said what an excellent job she did and even asked her what law firm she was representing. Kudos to Sarah. She won our case, as she assured me she would. I would definitely recommend this law firm. Especially Sarah her professionalism and mannerism speaks volumes. Thanks again for representing me."

Levon H.

"The experience was awesome. Breit Biniazan help through the transition and paperwork to help me get my settlement. The whole team and lawyer had great communication throughout the process of this settlement."

Anthony A.

"Nothing but a great experience with this firm. Sarah was fully professional, attentive, and communicative throughout the entire process while representing me. Anyone who has a personal injury case, this is the firm that you want to go to. 10/10 I strongly recommend!"

Vontrey C.

"Sarah has been a great help in my case. I have been in a very serious Motorcycle accident and she and her team has worked very diligently on my case. I would like to say Thank You and will definitely be considering you in the future if needed!!"

Marcus N.

"Best law firm in Hampton Roads"

J My

"GREAT! GREAT! GREAT! ... you can not go wrong with this firm backing you!... Thanks for everything!"

Cordrette T.

"Had a amazing experience with this company. They helped me every step of the way when I had to go to court for a accident I was in. They are really personable and go above and beyond in customer service."

Stephanie W.

"I couldn’t speak more highly of Kevin, Kylee, and the whole legal team at BB. They were both personable and professional. If you’re looking for a lawyer who cares, this firm is the right one for you."

Bonnie W.

"My case was small, but it was handled with the care one would expect to be given to a multimillion-dollar settlement. The professionalism, intelligence and kindness of everyone in the firm far surpassed my expectations. Jeffrey Breit and Kevin Biniazan are truly the A Team!"

George D.

"Working with this law firm made settling my case a breeze! When i was injured in my car accident and my car was totaled, i was so worried about handling the insurance company and all of the phone calls and paperwork while i had a concussion. With a couple visits and a few emails back and forth with my paralegal and attorney, my case was settled in less than a year! If i ever needed to be represented again i will 100% be choosing Breit Cantor Grana Buckner to represent me! I appreciate everything they did for me!"

Sarah J.

"Kevin and his team were very professional and personable! They were very knowledgeable with my case. I feel like I have made some great new friendships. Thank you guys!"

Sharon P.

"Was very happy with the service I received from this office Staff is very helpful & friendly. After just a few months my case was resolved & my outcome was better than expected! Kellie Jennings kept me up to date and informed through it all. I have another pending case & have no reservations that the outcome will be as good as the first. I would recommend to family & friends."

Cobi M.

"Throughout 2019 and 2020 Attorney Kevin Biniazan helped me with a personal injury case. Aside from the professionalism and attentiveness one would expect from a quality law firm such as Breit Cantor Grana Buckner, I was taken by the fact that they agreed to take my case on a contingency basis, even though there was little evidence in my favor in the early stages of preparation. This meant the world to me. It meant that they believed in me, and my case, when two other firms declined to take the case. In late 2020 the case settled out of court and I received a substantial monetary award that exceeded my expectations. Thank you Kevin, and all your support staff for believing in me when many others did not!!!!"

Markgerszewski

"This law firm was highly recommended by a friend who had prior representation. I am very pleased with their professionalism and they kept me well informed of my injury case. Attorney Kevin Biniazan and his team fought well for my rights and I received an extremely good settlement. I encourage you to give them a call as you will have a pleasant experience with their representation!"

Scott S.

"My experience with Breit Biniazan and his team was very positive. They were very helpful, were always available, took time to explain the process, and answer any questions I had. A special thanks to Kellie for all her support and efforts. I always felt she was on my side and looking out for my best interest. I would highly recommend Mr. Binazan and his team and would not hesitate to use their services should the need arise."

Mark T.

"Michael Collett represented us in our suit, and he was incredible. He made quick, efficient work of getting our case positively resolved while also making sure to keep us updated along the way. We recommend him to anyone seeking representation in a personal injury suit.

Our suit had dragged on for five years, and we wondered if it would ever be finished. Once Mike was handed our case, he immediately got to work getting to know us and understanding the timeline of events. Additionally, as a prior military member, he understood that our case was not a traditional cut-and-dry lawsuit: our life continued while the company dragged it out in court, including PCSing overseas and then back to the US during COVID. This kind of personal understanding and attention to detail was instrumental to our case. Mike's background, compassion, attentiveness, and professionalism made the difference; without him, we could have had a very different outcome.

If you are in need of any representation for a personal injury suit, I highly recommend Michael and his colleagues."

Kim V.

"I'm an attorney in Nebraska and represented a Nebraska family who lost their son/brother due to an electrocution on a job site in Virginia. After handling the workers' compensation claim in Nebraska, I reached out to multiple law firms in Virginia, ultimately co-counseling with Kevin Biniazan on the Virginia third party claims. He worked the case up, secured experts, and ultimately tried the case to a jury. Kevin and his team did a fantastic job presenting the case, arguing points of law, and overall just demonstrated that they had put extraordinary time and effort into preparing the case for trial. They secured a 7-figure recovery on tough facts and were great to work with along the way. I highly recommend Kevin and his firm."

Aaron B.

"I give Kevin Biniazan and his team the highest rating I can. I had a case in Va Beach a few years ago, called a few attorneys but ended up going with Kevin because of the knowledge and compassion he showed. After telling Kevin my issue, he and his team did all the work. They took the time to listen to my concerns and feelings, they were informative and available at all times. Along with the success of my case, Kevin and his team gave me the opportunity and support I needed to begin healing. I couldn’t recommend enough!"

Brit T.

"Outstanding service! My case lasted approximately 2 years, the staff was more than patient with me and the multiple questions I had throughout the process. I highly recommend their services to all."

Donald B.

"I was injured in a motorcycle accident with a car driver and refered to Breit Biniazan by a second lawfirm from my home state. They were professional and got me through one of the most painful times in my life. I simply gave them what they needed and they took care of the rest, getting me proper compensation for my pain and suffering."

Kurtis P.

"I took a chance on this firm from a recommendation and I couldn’t be happier with their work and the results of my case. Kellie and Nilda are pure gold! Kellie kept me appraised of everything that was going on, timely and answered all my questions and concerns. I followed a recommendation; trust me, Breit Biniazan is the very best!"

Ally A.

"Kevin, Kylee and his team are the best in the business! They are the most trustworthy,hardworking,dedicated, honest, and morally outstanding people I've had the pleasure of knowing."

Edward D.

"My experience with the team at Breit Biniazan was nothing short of outstanding. They handled our case with the utmost professionalism and compassion. Kellie, their paralegal proved to be an invaluable support. Kellie was compassionate and her communication helped us through a tough time. I highly recommend Breit Biniazan."

Craig M.

"I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Beasley and Ms. Jennings. I was unfortunately involved in multiple crashes that I was a victim of and sought their firm, Breit Biniazan for help with medical bills and other issues. They worked with me for well over a year, coming to a successful resolution for my cases. They are incredibly passionate about their job and getting to an outcome desired for their plaintiffs. I would recommend their firm for any cases you may have, no questions asked."

Zach H.

"I’ve never been in a lawsuit, nor have I been to court, or had anything dealing with legal matter so all of this was pretty new to me, and 9/10 it was scary & heart racing. The only reason I got through it is because of Kevin. If it wasn’t for him with his patience, his commitment to his client, or the will to go the distance I never would’ve had confidence in any of this legal stuff. 10/10 recommend Breit Biniazan."

Tyler B.

"Kept me informed of the entire process. Offered advice on how to proceed."

Kenneth P.

"Fantastic team! Kevin is an amazing attorney who comes through on his word. Kylee and the team of paralegals went above and beyond to help me understand what we should expect in the case. I highly recommend Kevin’s team to anyone who is not only in need of a legal team, but one who will get them what they deserve!"

Angelica S.

"Kevin and his team worked tirelessly to help us secure the best possible outcome for an incredibly difficult situation. They were supportive and attentive to our needs, walked us through the process step by step and fought hard for us. I would highly recommend Breit Biniazan for all of your legal needs."

Carmen A.

"Following a motor vehicle accident, I needed assistance with handling insurance issues and was referred to Breit Biniazan for their expertise. I had the pleasure of working with attorney Alexis Meier and her paralegal Molisa Gardner. They managed my case with utmost professionalism, efficiency, and thoroughness.

As a physician, I am aware that some law firms may try to enhance settlements by recommending excessive consultations, imaging studies, and other tests, as well as extensive therapy. However, Alexis and Molisa ensured that I received the necessary care without subjecting me to unnecessary tests or treatments. I found their approach to be both ethical and professional.

I wholeheartedly endorse Breit Biniazan and recommend their services to anyone in a similar situation."

Andrew D.

"Alexis Meier is an exceptional attorney—professional, knowledgeable, and highly effective. She handled my case with efficiency, care, and compassion, ensuring everything was managed seamlessly. Her team was equally impressive, always responsive and prompt in their communication. It was an absolute pleasure working with them, and I highly recommend Alexis and her team to anyone in need of outstanding legal representation."

Leah L.
Reviewed
on Google
Read More Reviews

Practice Areas

attorneys near you

Advocates. Strategists. Allies.
Meet Your Team
At Breit Biniazan, our team is united by a shared purpose: to guide, protect, and fight for those facing life’s hardest moments. Each member brings not only skill and strategy, but deep empathy and relentless commitment to every case we take on.
meet your team
Proven Performance Award-winning advocacy.
Recognition That Reflects Results
YOU DESerVE MORe

Elite Advocacy.
Maximum Recovery.

You deserve more than a quick settlement. Contact us to take the first step towards justice and the maximum recovery your story deserves.
Virginia Beach
600 22nd Street , Suite 402
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Get Directions(757) 622-6000
Richmond
2100 East Cary Street, Suite 310
Richmond, VA 23223
Get Directions(804) 351-9040
Phoenix
1 E Washington Street, Suite 1130
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Get Directions(602) 491-9010
Portsmouth
355 Crawford St, Suite 704
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Get Directions(757) 673-0001
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute client relationship.
Contact us
Send Us Your Case Details
We’ll respond and let you know the best way to proceed with your case.
crosschevron-uparrow-up linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram