The Price of Beauty: Unveiling The True Cost For Black Women

As a black woman, I have grown up learning the importance of taking pride in your appearance. I have memories from a very young age of going to the hair salon with my mother and watching the hairdressers work to transform her beautiful long textured hair into silky straight. I also have memories of my grandmother's collections of perfumes and lotions that seemed so luxurious that I made a point to add them to my collection as an adult. Many of these memories have shaped my beauty routines and have become a part of my identity. However, like many other things in our lives, I am starting to learn that the products that have been staples in my life may be silently causing health issues.  In recent years, there has been growing concern about the potential health risks associated with the beauty and hair products used by black women. These products, including hair relaxers, weaves, and cosmetics, have been an integral part of our beauty routines for decades. However, emerging research suggests that some of these products can contain harmful chemicals that can have adverse effects on their health. This article aims to shed light on the potential health implications of the consumption of beauty and hair products and the need for increased awareness and safer alternatives.

Hair Relaxers and Chemical Straighteners:

Hair relaxers and chemical straighteners have long been a common staple in the black community. Many of us get our first “perms” as teenagers and some maybe even earlier. However, our quest to have more “manageable” hair has come with severe consequences that have recently come to light.  Many of these chemical straighteners we have grown up using have been found to contain harsh chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, and guanidine hydroxide, which can cause scalp burns, hair breakage, and even hair loss. Moreover, the prolonged use of these products has been linked to an increased risk of uterine fibroids, early puberty in girls, and certain types of cancer. Recently several class action lawsuits have been filed against some of the prominent hair care companies alleging that these companies sold hair relaxer products that not only posed an increased risk of uterine and ovarian cancer but also lacked sufficient warning about this potential risk. Brands such as Dark & Lovely, Just for Me,  ORS Olive Oil Hair Relaxer, and Motions have all been named in the class action lawsuit due to their potential links to cancer. 

Weaves and Synthetic Braids: 

If you are like me you have had either a weave, braids, or some sort of extension at some point in your life. Most of us use these hairstyles to protect our natural hair from heat damage or the everyday stress of constant styling. However, the attachment methods and the chemicals used in the production of these products can pose health risks. Glues, adhesives, and heat-bonding agents used to attach weaves and extensions can cause scalp irritation, allergic reactions, and even hair loss. Additionally, some synthetic hair extensions may contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen. A recent study labeled synthetic hair as an “unidentified risk” to black women due to the presence of carcinogenic materials. Although this issue has been gaining more and more exposure, there are still very few regulations preventing the use of these chemicals. 

Cosmetics and Skin Care Products:

As, black women we often face challenges in finding cosmetics and skincare products that cater to our specific needs. The lack of representation and limited shade ranges in the beauty industry can lead to the use of products that may not be suitable for our skin type, resulting in adverse reactions. Many mainstream products may contain harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, and mercury, which have been linked to hormonal disruptions, skin irritations, and even reproductive issues.  This is why we must read and understand the ingredients found in many of the beauty and skincare products we choose. Thankfully lawmakers are starting to regulate the use of these chemicals. The California governor Newsom, recently signed a law banning the use of several toxic chemicals including PFA’s(Forever Chemicals). This law is a great step towards combating this major issue however there is still more to be done. In the meantime, we should opt for brands that prioritize clean and inclusive formulations, ensuring our health and well-being are not compromised.

As black women, our consumption of beauty and hair products has long been an integral part of our self-expression and cultural identity. However, it is essential to recognize the potential health risks associated with certain products. By increasing awareness, advocating for safer alternatives, and supporting brands that prioritize clean and inclusive formulations, we can prioritize our health and well-being without compromising our beauty routines. It is time that we take charge and empower each other to make informed choices.