FDA to Take Action on Hair-Straightening Chemicals Linked to Health Risks

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is planning to propose a ban on certain hair-straightening products that contain formaldehyde and other formaldehyde-releasing chemicals due to their link to health risks, including an increased risk of hormone-related cancers. Research suggests that these chemicals are more prevalent in products marketed to Black women. The FDA's proposed rule would also highlight the short-term adverse health effects associated with these products. Lawmakers and advocates have applauded the FDA's action and called for the ban to be implemented promptly. A study published last year found evidence of an association between hair-straightening products and uterine cancer.