Democratic Reps. Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, Shontel Brown of Ohio, and Nydia Velazquez of New York have sent a letter to the FDA questioning the delays in proposing a ban on hair straighteners containing formaldehyde, which has been linked to increased cancer rates. The FDA initially set a target date for the proposal in April, but it has been delayed twice.
Pressley highlighted the impact on Black women, who often use straightening treatments due to hair discrimination. She believes further delays could cause more health issues for communities of color. The FDA has a history of delays in implementing proposed bans, such as the indefinite delay of a proposed ban on menthol cigarettes in April.
Studies have shown that the chemicals in hair straighteners, including formaldehyde, increase the risk of uterine cancer. Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against beauty companies for misrepresenting the health impacts of these products and exposing users to harmful chemicals. The FDA has indicated that they are working with the cosmetics industry to develop safer alternatives to these hair straighteners.
Pressley, Brown, and Velazquez are pushing for swift action from the FDA to protect the health of women, particularly those of color, who have been disproportionately affected by the harmful chemicals in hair straightening products.
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