Research Report
Background: Health at risk for women of color
Ingredient analysis: Chemicals linked to cancer found in hair products marketed to women of color at Sally Beauty
Background: Health at risk for women of color
Toxic chemicals in cosmetics, including hair products, are associated with numerous health concerns, from cancer to respiratory problems. Black consumers purchase nine times more hair and beauty products than non-Black consumers and disproportionately purchase hair relaxers and straighteners, products that are primarily marketed to and used by women.2 Women who regularly use hair straighteners and products such as hair dye face increased risks of hormone-related and reproductive cancers. For example:
- NIEHS study on hair dye and breast cancer: Researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) found that regular use of hair dye by Black women resulted in a 60% increased risk of breast cancer.3
- 2022 study on hair straighteners and uterine cancer: A 2022 study found an increased risk of uterine cancer in women who used hair straightening products.4
Further, a 2025 study discussing barriers to accessing safer hair products found that Black women experience challenges finding high-quality, low-cost natural hair products in their neighborhoods.5
Read the analysis
- I.Introduction
- II.Background: Health at risk for women of color
- III.Methodology
- IV.What we found: Formaldehyde releasers
- V.What we found: Siloxanes
- VI.Recommendations
- VII.References