Hair Relaxer MDL
A federal multidistrict litigation by women who developed uterine and ovarian cancers after long-term use of chemical hair relaxers.
The Hair Relaxer MDL is a federal multidistrict litigation in the Northern District of Illinois (MDL 3060) consolidating thousands of lawsuits by women — disproportionately Black women — who used chemical hair relaxers and straighteners for years and later developed uterine cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine fibroids. Plaintiffs cite a 2022 NIH-led Sister Study finding that frequent users of chemical hair straighteners had roughly double the risk of uterine cancer. Defendants include L'Oreal, Soft Sheen-Carson, Strength of Nature, Namaste, and Dabur. Plaintiffs allege the products contained endocrine-disrupting chemicals (including phthalates and parabens) and that manufacturers failed to warn of cancer risks despite knowing or having reason to know. Bellwether trials are being prepared. Women who used chemical hair relaxers regularly and were later diagnosed with covered cancers may have a claim. Statutes of limitations vary by state, so timely consultation with a contingency-fee attorney is important.
In real life
- A woman who used hair relaxers monthly for 20 years and was diagnosed with uterine cancer files into MDL 3060.
- A salon professional with high occupational relaxer exposure and endometrial cancer joins the MDL.
- A family files a survival claim after the death of a regular relaxer user.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Hair Relaxer MDL
What conditions qualify?+
Uterine cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer are the main qualifying conditions; some claims also involve uterine fibroids.
Where is the litigation?+
MDL 3060 in the Northern District of Illinois.
Who are the defendants?+
Major hair-relaxer makers including L'Oreal, Soft Sheen-Carson, Strength of Nature, Namaste, and Dabur.
Is there a deadline?+
Yes — statute of limitations rules vary by state. Consult an attorney quickly.
Source: nih.gov