U.S. Representative Shontel Brown is seeking answers from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about the delay in implementing a rule that would ban formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in hair products, such as chemical straighteners commonly used by Black women. Brown highlighted the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to formaldehyde, which has been linked to higher rates of cancer, respiratory problems, and reproductive health issues.
In a letter sent Wednesday, co-signed by Democratic Representatives Nydia Velázquez of New York and Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, Brown emphasized the disproportionate impact on women of color, who are more likely to use or provide hair services involving formaldehyde-based products, thus increasing health risks for both workers and clients. The letter, addressed to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, questions why the agency has yet to finalize the ban it proposed last October, following a previous inquiry from Brown and Pressley urging the FDA to assess the safety of chemical hair straighteners.
“Of particular concern is the disproportionate impact on women of color, who are more likely to receive and provide hair treatment services that use formaldehyde, thus creating a uniquely harmful environment for both workers and their customers leading to heightened health risks long term,” says their letter to U.S. FDA Commissioner Robert Califf.
Brown, who noted she has personally used such products without negative effects, referenced reports from the Associated Press about thousands of lawsuits claiming that beauty companies misrepresented the health risks of their hair straighteners, leading to increased risks of uterine and ovarian cancers. Some plaintiffs also cited infertility as a result of using these products.
The congressional letter asks the FDA for an explanation of the delay and a timeline for when the ban will be finalized. It underscores the importance of regulatory actions that prioritize public health and requests a prompt response from the agency. The FDA, which has stated that formaldehyde is a harmful gas when inhaled or when it comes into contact with the skin or eyes, has advised against using hair products containing the chemical. The agency acknowledged receipt of the letter and said it would respond directly to Brown, Pressley, and Velázquez.
“Ensuring that regulatory actions align with the best interests of public health, remains the goal and we look forward to your prompt response,” their letter said.
