Folks with curly or kinky hair, beware! Using chemical hair relaxers for an extended period of time can actually be pretty bad for you. Some recent research has shown that hair relaxers might even increase your chances of developing cancer.

In fact, one study found that women who used hair relaxers frequently for a year had twice the risk of developing uterine cancer. Yikes! This raises concerns that regular use of hair relaxers could also potentially increase the risk of other types of cancer, which is definitely not something to take lightly.

Hair relaxers are chemical products made to help make hair more manageable. The way they work is by breaking down the chemical bonds in your hair, which then makes it easier to straighten. Many people with naturally curly or kinky hair like to use hair relaxers to get a straighter look. It’s a pretty common thing to do and can really change up your style if that’s what you’re after. But now that we’re learning about some of the adverse effects, we need to think twice about what goes on our scalps.

What are the Risks of Hair Relaxers?

You don’t need to panic immediately— developing cancer from using hair relaxers seems pretty rare. But there are other risks with hair relaxers that you should know.

Hair damage

Because hair relaxers work by breaking down the chemical bonds in your hair, they can cause severe damage to your locks. This can lead to split ends, breakage, and even hair loss in some cases.

Scalp irritation

Using hair relaxers can also cause irritation to your scalp. This can sometimes lead to itching, burning, and even open sores.

Chemical burns

In some cases, hair relaxers cause chemical burns to your scalp and skin. This can be incredibly painful and can even lead to scarring if left untreated.

Allergic reactions

Some people are actually allergic to the chemicals found in hair relaxers. This can lead to symptoms like hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Respiratory issues

Some of the chemicals in hair relaxers can damage your lungs when you breathe them in a lot. This can lead to developing respiratory issues. Taking precautions such as wearing a mask and applying the relaxer in a well-ventilated area can help.

Increased cancer risk

As we mentioned earlier, some research has suggested that using hair relaxers on a regular basis could potentially increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as uterine cancer.

How Can a Chicago Lawyer Help You Get Justice?

So, you may be wondering how a Chicago lawyer can help you get justice when it comes to hair relaxer injuries. Well, there are actually a number of ways that a lawyer can be incredibly helpful in these types of situations.

A Chicago lawyer specializing in personal injury cases will deeply understand the laws and regulations surrounding these types of injuries. They’ll know precisely what kinds of evidence are needed to build a strong case and can help you gather that evidence to make your case as strong as possible. A product liability lawyer can also help you navigate the often-complex legal system. They’ll be able to help you file the necessary paperwork, communicate with insurance companies, and negotiate with the other party involved in the case. This can be incredibly helpful if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start.

Perhaps most importantly, a Chicago lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve for your hair relaxer injury. This can include things like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By working with a skilled lawyer, you’ll be able to ensure that you’re not left holding the bag regarding the financial impact of your injury.

Current Lawsuits

Your lawyer won’t be starting your case from scratch, either. Recently, 60 lawsuits against hair relaxer manufacturers and distributors were combined into one at a federal court in Illinois. While companies obviously refute the claim, there is enough evidence that these cases are moving forward together.

How to Choose a Chicago Lawyer for Hair Relaxer Injuries?

If you’ve been injured by a hair relaxer and you’re considering hiring a lawyer in Chicago to help you get justice, you may be wondering how to choose the right lawyer for your needs. After all, there are likely many lawyers in the Chicago area who specialize in personal injury cases – so how do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Look for a lawyer with experience in hair relaxer injury cases. Ideally, you want to work with a personal injury lawyer who has handled similar cases in the past and has a track record of success in this area.
• Consider the lawyer’s communication style. When you’re dealing with a hair relaxer injury, you want to work with a lawyer who is responsive, communicative, and easy to get in touch with. Make sure the lawyer you choose is someone you feel comfortable communicating with throughout the process.
• Do your research. Before hiring a product liability lawyer, take some time to read reviews, check out their website, and learn more about their practice. This can help you understand their approach and whether they’re the right fit for your needs.
• Ask for referrals. If you know someone who has been through a similar experience, ask them for a referral to a lawyer they worked with and trust.
• Schedule a consultation. Many lawyers offer free consultations, which can be a great way to get a sense of whether they’re a good fit for your case. During the consultation, ask questions about their experience, their approach to the case, and what you can expect in terms of communication and updates throughout the process.

Safer Alternatives to Hair Relaxers

If you’re concerned about the potential risks of hair relaxers, there are some safer alternatives that you may want to consider. Here are a few options:

Heat styling tools

Instead of using a chemical relaxer to straighten your hair, you can use a heat styling tool like a flat iron or a blow dryer. While heat can also damage your hair, it may be a safer option than using chemical products.

Keratin treatments

Keratin treatments use a protein called keratin to smooth and straighten hair. These treatments can last for several months and may be less damaging than traditional relaxers.

Natural hair care

Some people choose to embrace their natural hair texture and use natural hair care products to keep their hair healthy and manageable. This can involve techniques like co-washing (using conditioner instead of shampoo) or the use of natural oils like coconut or argan oil.

Protective styling

Protective styling involves wearing your hair in styles that minimize damage and breakage. This can include braids, twists, or buns, which can help keep your hair healthy while also allowing you to achieve the desired look.

Keep in mind that every person’s hair is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re interested in exploring safer alternatives to hair relaxers, it may be a good idea to talk to a hairstylist or other hair care professional who can help you find the right approach for your needs.