The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has once again delayed its plan to prohibit hair-straightening products containing or releasing formaldehyde, a substance known to cause cancer in humans.
Originally set for April 2024, the FDA’s proposal faced delays, with a new deadline of July 2024 and now September 2024, according to documents released online. When questioned by NPR about the status of the ban, an FDA spokesperson emphasized that finalizing the rule remains a top priority but declined to specify reasons for the delays.
Formaldehyde is released as gas when certain hair smoothing treatments are heated, posing health risks such as eye and throat irritation, coughing, asthma, and potentially cancer. Studies, including one by the National Institutes of Health involving 33,500 U.S. women, suggest an increased risk of uterine cancer among users of these products, particularly affecting Black women who use them more frequently.
In response to concerns raised by lawmakers and health advocates, the FDA aims to ban formaldehyde and related chemicals like methylene glycol from these products nationwide. Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Shontel Brown highlighted the disproportionate impact on Black women, noting societal pressures and health risks associated with conforming to certain beauty standards.
While urging the FDA to expedite the rule, Pressley emphasized the importance of protecting consumer health without delay. Currently, the FDA advises consumers to carefully review product labels for formaldehyde and report adverse reactions to the agency.
