Congress Takes Aim at Hair Products Containing Cancer-Causing Ingredients Targeted at Black Women
On Wednesday, federal lawmakers unveiled four bills designed to either ban or regulate hazardous chemicals found in hair and beauty products primarily marketed to Black women. This initiative, known as the Safe Beauty Bill Package, aims to eliminate ingredients recognized for their cancer-causing potential from beauty and personal care hair products. The lawmakers emphasized that these changes are crucial in protecting women of color and salon workers who often face heightened exposure to such harmful substances.
There is increasing scientific evidence linking many harmful beauty ingredients to severe health issues, including breast cancer, reproductive damage, early puberty, and learning disabilities. A Consumer Reports study revealed that certain synthetic hair products commonly used in braids and extensions for Black women contained cancer-causing substances. Additionally, varying levels of lead—linked to serious health complications—were detected in most synthetic hair samples analyzed.
Advocates assert that this legislation would enhance ingredient transparency and safety in hair products. Janet Nudelman, director of Program and Policy at Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, stated that the bills acknowledge the right of all individuals to be shielded from unsafe cosmetic exposures, regardless of their shopping or working environments. The legislation includes the Toxic-Free Beauty Act, which aims to prohibit two classes and 18 particularly hazardous chemicals identified in hair products, such as lead, mercury, formaldehyde, and phthalates, all known for their associated health risks.
Meanwhile, the FDA is expected to make a decision by April 2024 on banning formaldehyde and related ingredients in chemical hair straighteners, a proposal that has faced delays. The package also features the Cosmetic Safety Protections for Communities of Color & Salon Workers Act, addressing the disproportionate exposure of toxic chemicals among salon workers and women of color. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, who authored all four bills, highlighted the need for accountability regarding hair product ingredients and insisted it is time to close loopholes that permit toxic chemicals in everyday cosmetics.
In light of Congress’s previous efforts to modernize cosmetic regulations in 2022, which granted the FDA oversight but did not significantly improve ingredient safety, several states have taken preemptive measures. Since 2023, Vermont, California, Washington, and Oregon have enacted laws banning various chemicals in cosmetic products to enhance safety and consumer protection.