Uh Oh! Black Women Sue L’Oréal, Claim Relaxer Caused Hair Loss And Scalp Burns

Two women have filed a class action lawsuit against L’Oréal and its hair care brand SoftSheen-Carson claiming that one of its popular hair relaxer kits causes hair loss and scalp burns.

According to Cosmetic Business, SoftSheen-Carson Optimum Amla Legend No-Mix, No-Lye Relaxer claims that they have replaced lye with Indian fruit oil and Amla oils, but that the relaxer’s ingredients have caused hair loss and breakage, and scalp irritation, blisters and burns among thousands of women per Amazon reviews. The lawsuit also states that it’s not clear if the product is actually no-lye, given that online it says it contains “sodium hydroxide.” 

One key plaintiff, Dorothy Riles, who has been forced to wear a wig, claims the relaxer left her with bald patches, burns and scabs. The other one, Sharon Manier said that immediately using the product, she experienced scalp irritation and, after washing it out, she saw “significant” hair loss.

The lawsuit also states that consumers were tricked into using the line’s products because of celebrity endorsements from Cynthia Bailey, Tracee Ellis Ross and Michelle Obama’s hair stylist, Clutch noted.

The plaintiffs are asking for their trial to be heard in front of a jury and are seeking $5 million in damages.

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