Chemical hair straightening is a popular hair styling product that uses chemicals to straighten and smooth curly or kinky hair. While these tools can be effective at achieving a certain hairstyle, they can also contain harmful chemicals that have been linked to cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus. Some common signs and symptoms of uterine cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after menopause or bleeding between periods, pelvic pain or pressure, pain during sex and changes in urinary or bowel habits. Other possible symptoms include thinning or wasting of the tissues around the pelvis, loss of appetite and fatigue. If you have been diagnosed with this type of cancer, you may be able to seek compensation through a lawsuit for hair straighteners linked to cancer.
Which Chemicals Cause Cancer?
One of the main chemicals used in hair straighteners is formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, meaning that it can cause cancer. When hair straighteners containing formaldehyde are used, the heat can release the chemical into the air where it can be inhaled. Formaldehyde can also be absorbed through the skin, where it can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body.
Exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to several types of cancer including leukaemia, nasopharyngeal cancer and bladder cancer. However, the most common type of cancer associated with formaldehyde exposure is uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer. Uterine cancer develops in the lining of the uterus and is typically diagnosed in women over the age of 50. Alarmingly, recent research is proving that the use of hair straighteners may increase the risk of uterine cancer in women much younger than that.
In addition to formaldehyde, hair straighteners may also contain other harmful chemicals such as phthalates and sodium hydroxide. Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastic products more flexible and durable but they have also been linked to reproductive disorders and cancer. Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic carcinogen that can cause severe burns and irritation to the skin and eyes.
Alternatives to Chemical Straighteners
One alternative method for styling curly or kinky hair is to use natural hair care products. These products are made with plant-based ingredients that nourish and protect the hair without using harmful chemicals. Natural hair care products can help to define and enhance natural curls without causing damage.
Another alternative method for styling curly or kinky hair is to use hairstyle techniques that don’t require the use of heat or chemicals. Braids, twists and natural curls are all styles that can enhance the natural beauty of your hair without causing damage.
If you do choose to use hair straighteners, it’s important to take precautions such as using a product that is formaldehyde-free and wearing a protective mask to reduce your exposure to chemicals. It’s important to consider the potential risks and make an informed decision about what is best for your health and well-being.