A recent study led by the Boston University School of Public Health suggests that hair relaxers, particularly used by Black and Hispanic individuals, may have a slight impact on fertility
The research, which analysed data from over 11,000 participants between 2014 and 2022, found a correlation between the use of chemical hair straighteners and reduced fertility, emphasising the need for expanded research on the reproductive health effects of beauty products.
The study revealed that Black and Hispanic individuals are more likely than other racial or ethnic groups to use these products early in life, more frequently, and for more extended periods. The research highlighted racial disparities in exposure to toxic chemicals present in hair relaxers. Societal pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards and restrictions on Afrocentric hairstyles in workplaces and schools were also noted as contributing factors.
Participants who reported using hair relaxers were more likely to be older, have lower education and income levels, a higher body mass index, smoke, be unmarried, and reside in the Southern United States. Additionally, they tended to take longer to conceive. Black participants, in particular, had the highest rates of both current and former hair relaxer use, with over half using their first relaxer before age 10.
The study found that longer durations of hair relaxer use, especially for at least 10 years or at least five times per year, were associated with lower fertility rates
Both current and former use, along with greater frequency and duration of use, as well as experiencing scalp burns from the products, were linked to reduced chances of becoming pregnant.
Chemicals like phthalates, phenols, and parabens present in hair relaxers were identified as potential contributors to fertility issues, though researchers noted that the full set of ingredients in these products is often not disclosed. The study calls for more comprehensive data to better understand how these chemicals impact fertility. The results were published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, with funding provided by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. For additional information on cosmetics and health, the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences is recommended.
Do we need to ditch the things we love at a time when we need them the most?
