FDA postpones formaldehyde ban in cancer-causing hair products; timeline remains unclear

The Food and Drug Administration’s proposal to ban formaldehyde in hair care products, specifically hair relaxers marketed towards Black women, has been delayed once again with no set release date. Formaldehyde has been linked to certain cancers, prompting advocates to push for its removal from hair products. Some companies have already developed formaldehyde-free formulas or clearly labeled products containing the chemical. The FDA has previously set and extended target dates for the proposal’s release, but it remains unclear when it will be made public. The organization has stated that the rulemaking process takes time and involves review and approval from various entities within the government. The delay may disappoint those eagerly awaiting the rule, including consumer advocacy groups like the Environmental Working Group. The FDA currently advises against using hair-straightening products containing formaldehyde. Ultimately, the final decision on whether to implement the ban will be made after the proposed rule is published and public comments are reviewed. For more updates on this issue and other health-related news, readers can subscribe to NBC BLK’s newsletter.

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