Complaint Alleges L’Oréal and SoftSheen Failed to Disclose Cancer Risks Associated With Chemical Hair Relaxer Products
PHOENIX — DiCello Levitt LLP is working with Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes in a newly filed consumer fraud lawsuit against L’Oréal USA, Inc., its parent company, and SoftSheen over the marketing and sale of chemical hair relaxer products allegedly linked to an increased risk of cancer.
According to the complaint, the companies advertised and sold chemical hair relaxers without disclosing that the products contained likely carcinogens or had otherwise been linked to an increased risk of cancer, including ovarian and uterine cancers. The products were marketed primarily to African American women, with some marketed to children.
“L’Oréal knew or should have known about the dangers associated with these toxic hair straightening products,” said Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes in a press release. “Yet, instead of warning their consumers, they put profits over the safety of women and children. My office will not stand for that.”
“We have seen the devastating impact these products can have on women and their families. The consequences are real, and they can be life-changing,” said DiCello Levitt Founding Partner Adam J. Levitt. “Attorney General Mayes is taking meaningful action to protect Arizona consumers and demand accountability from companies that allegedly failed to disclose serious health risks.”
The lawsuit follows years of scientific and legal scrutiny surrounding chemical hair relaxers and straighteners. Epidemiological studies have linked use of these products to increased risks of uterine and ovarian cancer and other hormone-related cancers.
The case is State of Arizona ex rel. Mayes v. L’Oréal USA, Inc., et al., filed in the Superior Court of the State of Arizona in and for Maricopa County. A copy of the complaint is available here.
The DiCello Levitt team on the matter includes Adam J. Levitt, Daniel R. Ferri, and Eli Hare.
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