Reps. Ayanna Pressley, Shontel Brown, and Nydia Velazquez are demanding answers from the FDA about its delays in proposing a ban on hair straighteners containing formaldehyde, a chemical linked to increased cancer risks.
Pressley emphasized that 'Black women look to straightening treatments in part because of hair discrimination,' adding that further delays could exacerbate health issues in communities of color. She stated, 'I just want everyone to be able to show up fully, authentically, and unapologetically, without fear and without discrimination.'
The FDA initially aimed to propose the ban in April 2023, later moving the target to July and then September, with no specific reasons provided for the delays. Despite the postponements, the FDA maintains that the ban remains a top priority, though no final timeline has been offered.
Pressley highlighted that protective hairstyles commonly worn by Black women are often unfairly labeled as 'unprofessional,' driving the use of potentially harmful straightening products.
Studies have shown a significant increase in the risk of uterine cancer among users of these products, and thousands of lawsuits have been filed against beauty companies for misrepresenting the health risks. The FDA has yet to implement the ban but has indicated a willingness to work with the cosmetics industry to develop safer alternatives.
Link: NBC News
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