The FDA is taking significant steps towards reinforcing regulations on hair straightening products, considering a ban on various chemical relaxers and pressing products. The potential health risks associated with these products, including their link to cancer, have prompted the agency’s proactive stance.
Chavela Joiner, the proprietor of the renowned Beyond Shears Hair Studio in Midtown Atlanta, expressed her support for the proposed measures. Joiner highlighted the increasing popularity of safer alternatives to chemical-based treatments, emphasizing the need for a shift towards natural hair care solutions. “The hydration machine is a great transition for those moving away from relaxers. It’s essential to use safe products, even if it means implementing federal regulations,” Joiner emphasized.
The FDA’s proposed ban primarily targets products containing formaldehyde or any formaldehyde-releasing chemicals, aligning with concerns raised by experts like Alexandra White from the National Institutes of Health. White underscored the importance of minimizing potential exposure to carcinogens, urging consumers to be mindful of the products they use.
Joiner further emphasized the critical role of safer alternatives for Black women, contributing to the growing preference for natural hair care solutions. “It’s crucial to prioritize our clients’ well-being over temporary results. We have a responsibility to ensure their long-term health isn’t compromised,” Joiner asserted.
The proposal remains in the early stages, awaiting public comments before the FDA makes a final decision. As the agency progresses through the regulatory process, the future of these hair straightening products hangs in the balance, with health and safety taking precedence in the national discourse.