Congress Introduces New Rules on Black Hair and Beauty Products: Key Details Revealed

Addressing Health Concerns in Hair Products Used by Black Women

A recent wave of proposed legislation in Congress aims to tackle the serious health risks associated with hair products commonly used by Black women. These bills focus on chemicals and substances found in such products that have been linked to various diseases, including cancer. The initiative reflects growing attention from both scientists and lawmakers regarding the potential dangers posed by these products, especially for Black consumers and hairdressers.

Key Components of the Safer Beauty Bill Package

Four Democratic representatives recently introduced the Safer Beauty Bill Package, a set of four bills designed to regulate and restrict harmful chemicals commonly found in hair products and cosmetics used by Black communities. The bill was proposed by Reps. Lizzie Fletcher (Texas), Doris Matsui (California), Ayanna Pressley (Massachusetts), and Jan Schakowsky (Illinois) on July 17.

One of the key components, the Toxic-Free Beauty Act, would classify two types of chemicals—phthalates and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives—and ban 18 toxic chemicals already prohibited in the European Union and several U.S. states. Another part of the package, the Cosmetic Supply Chain Transparency Act, would require suppliers to provide cosmetic companies with detailed information about the ingredients and safety of their product inputs.

The Cosmetic Hazardous Ingredient Right to Know Act would mandate public disclosure of potential health risks related to ingredients in hair and cosmetic products. Finally, the Cosmetic Safety Protections for Communities of Color & Salon Workers would fund research into safer alternatives and support outreach and education efforts focused on products used by Black women and salon workers.

Scientific Evidence and Legislative Efforts

This legislative effort builds on years of research linking certain ingredients in Black hair and beauty products to serious health issues, including cancer. In March, Consumer Reports published a study analyzing the 10 most popular synthetic hair braiding products, finding that all contained cancer-causing chemicals. A separate study conducted in Los Angeles revealed that many beauty and hair products used by Black and Latina women contained formaldehyde or related compounds known to cause cancer.

In 2022, Congress granted the FDA authority to regulate hair products, but the agency has made limited progress in banning or restricting harmful chemicals. Meanwhile, some states, like California, have already implemented bans on various dangerous chemicals.

Calls for Action and Accountability

Schakowsky, who authored or co-authored all four bills in the Safer Beauty Bill Package, emphasized the need to close loopholes that allow toxic chemicals in everyday products. “It’s time to close the loopholes that allow toxic chemicals in the products we use on our bodies every day,” she said in a statement.

Pressley highlighted the long-standing presence of chemicals causing increased cancer rates, respiratory issues, and reproductive problems in products used by Black women and girls. “This isn’t a coincidence — this is exploitation. Black women, girls, and salon workers should be able to show up every day as our beautiful, authentic selves, without fear for our health and safety.”

Progress and Challenges

Despite the scientific evidence and political concern, progress in making these products safer has been slow. The Safer Beauty Bill Package represents a significant step forward in addressing these issues by targeting harmful chemicals and promoting transparency. If passed, the legislation could provide much-needed protection for Black women, girls, and beauty professionals across the country.