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Multidistrict Litigation Created for Hair Relaxer Cancer Claims

Multidistrict Litigation Created for Hair Relaxer Cancer Claims

An important update has occurred for individuals who have filed chemical hair relaxer lawsuits. Dozens are filing lawsuits against hair straightener manufacturers, alleging the products gave them cancer. Recently, a panel consolidated chemical hair relaxer cancer claims into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). This is a critical development for hair relaxer claims because it shows that litigation is picking up steam. An MDL combines federal lawsuits under one judge to quickly and efficiently manage the claims. 

MDL for Hair Relaxer Lawsuits Approved

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) decides whether specific claims warrant an MDL. On November 15, 2022, plaintiffs requested the JPML launch an MDL to house hair relaxer claims. These hair relaxer claims make similar allegations and involve related issues. Because of these factors and the rapid growth of hair relaxer claims, plaintiff hair relaxer lawyers asked the JPML to centralize cases. 

On February 6, 2023, the JPML granted the request to transfer chemical hair relaxer claims to the Northern District of Illinois. The panel ruled that the MDL would be convenient for all parties and lead to fair conduct. Hair straightener manufacturers opposed the MDL, arguing the claims are dissimilar and centralizing cases would not be helpful. Plaintiffs claim multiple injuries and name several manufacturers and brands according to them.

In the end, the JPML decided that an MDL would be in the best interest of everyone under the circumstances. The panel noted the litigation has grown from nine cases to fifty-three since November. 

Why Are People Filing Hair Relaxer Claims?

In October 2022, the National Institutes of Health published a study on the effects of chemical hair relaxers on the body. Researchers discovered that women who regularly used hair straighteners were more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer. 

Hair relaxers contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These chemicals interfere with the body’s hormones and endocrine system. By disturbing the body’s normal functions, EDCs may lead to reproductive, immune, developmental, and other problems. Individuals in chemical hair relaxer claims blame the EDCs in these haircare products for injuries, including: 

  • Uterine cancer
  • Ovarian cancer 
  • Uterine fibroids 
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Endometriosis 

Hair relaxer lawyers are assisting victims in filing lawsuits against several popular cosmetic companies, like L’Oréal and Revlon. 

The Lake Law Firm Can Help You File a Hair Relaxer Claim

Women have used hair relaxers for decades without knowing about the dangers of the chemicals inside these products. Many have applied hair straighteners multiple times a year from childhood into adulthood. If you have suffered injuries after using hair relaxers, a hair relaxer lawyer from The Lake Law Firm can help. Contact us today to see if you qualify. 

The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. The Lake Law Firm will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 525-3529.