The debate over whether hair relaxers can cause breast cancer has gained renewed attention, especially among African women who frequently use chemical straighteners. While many social media claims have linked hair relaxers to breast cancer, medical experts say the connection is not as straightforward as it may seem.
According to health professionals and scientific evidence, relaxing your hair does not directly cause breast cancer. However, the concern stems from the chemical composition of certain relaxers and the potential long-term effects of their ingredients on the body’s hormonal balance.
Hair relaxers typically contain sodium hydroxide (lye) or calcium hydroxide, alongside other compounds such as parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde. These substances are classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) — agents that can mimic or interfere with the body’s natural hormones, including estrogen. Since breast cancer is a hormone-related disease, researchers have been investigating whether prolonged exposure to these substances might play a role in cancer development.
A landmark study by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2022 found that women who frequently used chemical hair straighteners, about four times a year or more, had a slightly higher risk of uterine cancer compared to those who did not use such products. The study did not, however, establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between hair relaxers and breast cancer.
Similarly, other research has explored possible links between chemical straighteners and hormone-sensitive cancers, but the findings remain inconclusive. Scientists stress that while some relaxer formulations contain potentially hazardous ingredients, there is no definitive proof that using them leads to breast cancer. The risk, they argue, lies in chronic exposure over many years, especially when the scalp is burned or the skin barrier is compromised during application.
Health experts also emphasize the importance of distinguishing between correlation and causation. Just because some women with breast cancer have used hair relaxers does not mean the products caused their illness. Many other factors such as genetics, lifestyle, diet, and environmental influences, play a far greater role in determining cancer risk.
For breastfeeding mothers, the misconception that hair relaxers cause “breastfeeding cancer”, a term that has circulated widely online, is medically inaccurate. There is no such disease. The concern instead revolves around chemical exposure that may occur through inhalation of fumes or contact with the baby’s skin. Dermatologists recommend waiting a few months after childbirth before using relaxers and ensuring that the process is done in a well-ventilated space.
Dr. Ama Boateng, a dermatologist and lecturer at the University of Ghana Medical School, told Insight that moderation and product awareness are key. “Most of these relaxers are safe when used sparingly and according to instructions. The real danger comes from overuse, low-quality brands, or mixing products with harsh chemicals,” she explained. She also advised consumers to look out for formaldehyde-free and paraben-free products, which are less likely to disrupt hormonal function.
Public health experts are also calling on regulatory bodies to tighten oversight on the cosmetic industry, ensuring that harmful ingredients are phased out. In recent years, several international brands have reformulated their products in response to consumer health concerns, moving toward safer, plant-based alternatives.
Despite these reassurances, the conversation around hair relaxers and cancer risk continues to raise awareness about health equity and environmental exposure. Studies have shown that Black women are more likely to use chemical hair straighteners and, consequently, face higher levels of exposure to EDCs than other populations. This has prompted renewed advocacy for transparency in beauty product labeling and stricter chemical safety standards.
In the meantime, medical experts urge users to adopt safer hair care practices. These include performing patch tests before relaxing, avoiding scalp burns, spacing out relaxer treatments by at least six to eight weeks, and deep-conditioning the hair to strengthen it afterward. For those concerned about health implications, transitioning to natural or heat-styled hair remains an alternative.
In conclusion, there is no conclusive evidence that hair relaxers cause breast cancer. The existing studies highlight potential risks associated with certain ingredients, but the direct link remains unproven. The safest approach is to stay informed, use reputable brands, and minimize exposure to harsh chemicals. Ultimately, the decision to relax one’s hair should be a matter of choice — guided by science, not fear.
Why Men Need to Check Their Breasts: The Often-Ignored Truth About Male Breast Cancer
