In a recent development, two U.S. House members have raised concerns over the Food and Drug Administration's delays in proposing a ban on hair straighteners containing formaldehyde, a chemical linked to increased cancer rates. The representatives, along with a colleague, sent a letter to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf seeking clarification on the reasons for the postponements.
The FDA initially signaled a possible ban on certain salon-grade and at-home hair straighteners in 2023, with subsequent delays pushing back the proposal release date from April to July and then to September. The lawmakers emphasized the importance of finalizing the rule to protect public health, particularly in communities of color.
