Many people use chemical hair straightener products to moisturize their hair and improve its appearance. However, these products can contain toxic and cancer-causing chemicals. If the products are not used properly or a manufacturer does not warn people before use, they can impact your health now and in the future.
At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we treat hair straightener lawsuits seriously. If you are dealing with medical issues after using a hair straightener product, contact our law firm. From here, our hair straightener lawsuit lawyer can review your case and help you determine if now is the time to seek damages against any at-fault parties.
A Closer Look at Hair Straighteners and How They Work
You can use a hair straightener to remove curls and waves from your hair. Dozens of hair straightener products are available from companies around the world. Each product has its respective pros and cons.
There are three types of hair straighteners:
- Relaxers: These products destroy bi-sulfide bonds in the hair and rebuild them while the hair is held up straight.
- Keratin and Brazilian Straighteners: These products contain keratin and formaldehyde and are applied to the hair with heat to smooth the hair and make it shinier than ever before.
- Japanese Hair Straighteners: These products break disulfide bonds and heat up and restructure these bonds to straighten the hair.
You can buy hair straighteners online or at a retail or beauty store. When you do, you may notice instructions on how to use the product and a list of potential side effects. If you do not follow the instructions, there is a risk you can experience various side effects.
Why People File Hair Straightener Lawsuits
In October 2022, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published a study that found a link between the use of hair straightener products and uterine cancer. During the study, researchers examined data from 33,497 U.S. women between the ages of 35 and 74. One of the biggest takeaways from the study related to the use of straightener products may increase the risk of hormone-related cancers in women.
Researchers did not provide information about any ingredients or brands of hair straighteners used by study participants. They noted parabens, bisphenol A, and other chemicals commonly found in hair straighteners may contribute to an increased risk of uterine cancer. Also, researchers indicated that hair straighteners may pose a greater risk of health issues than other personal care products since straighteners are absorbed directly through a person’s scalp.
Additional research into the potential harm caused by hair straighteners is ongoing. As of March 2023, people have sued L’Oreal USA and other hair straightener companies and claimed their straightener products are responsible for cancer and other health issues. More people may file hair straightener lawsuits in the months and years to come.
How to Determine if Now Is the Right Time to File a Hair Straightener Lawsuit
Before you file a hair straightener lawsuit, it is important to meet with a doctor. At this point, a doctor can perform a medical evaluation. The doctor can determine if you are dealing with cancer or any other health issues that may be related to the use of a hair straightener product.
If you are diagnosed with a health issue that may be linked to a hair straightener product, follow through on any treatments prescribed by your doctor. Track any medical treatments you receive and the costs associated with them. You may be able to use this information to request damages in a personal injury lawsuit.
It is helpful to meet with an attorney that has a track record of success and maintains a personal rapport with their clients. You can share your medical records and other relevant information relating to your use of a hair straightener with the lawyer. Next, the attorney can help you decide whether to move forward with a lawsuit.
How to Identify the At-Fault Party in a Hair Straightener Lawsuit
The company that provided a hair straightening product can be held accountable for any harm you suffer as a result of using their product. In addition, you may be able to seek damages from a beauty salon or any other party that used a straightener on your hair. Once you know the at-fault parties, you can seek damages accordingly.
A hair straightener lawsuit attorney can help you identify any parties responsible for any harm you incur. The lawyer looks closely at the facts surrounding your claim. Then, the attorney will make sure you file a lawsuit against one or more at-fault parties.
Your hair straightener lawsuit lawyer will help you calculate the amount of damages to request in your lawsuit as well. To do so, your attorney will examine your medical bills and other damages you have incurred to date. Your lawyer will also consider the long-term costs that you may incur based on your use of a hair straightener product.
What to Expect from a Hair Straightener Lawsuit Lawyer
A hair straightener lawsuit can take months or years to resolve. After your lawsuit is filed, your attorney will work with you to build your case. Your lawyer will look for evidence to support your request for damages.
You may be presented with a settlement offer over the course of your litigation. If this happens, you can review the proposal with your attorney. You and your lawyer can then decide if it is in your best interests to accept, reject, or counter a settlement proposal.
If your hair straightener lawsuit ends up in court, you and your attorney will present your case. Your lawyer will provide you with a wealth of resources leading up to your trial date. As a result, you will be fully prepared for anything that can happen during your trial.
Get in Touch with a Hair Straightener Lawsuit Lawyer
At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we make it easy to connect with an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you with your hair straightener lawsuit. Please contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
