Introduction:
In the realm of beauty and personal care, we are on the brink of a pivotal transformation with far-reaching implications for health and well-being. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is embarking on an essential mission: safeguarding consumers from the potential risks posed by hair straightening products that contain harmful chemicals.
The FDA's Proposed Rule:
This groundbreaking development centers around the FDA's intent to introduce a "proposed rule that would specifically ban hair-straightening products containing formaldehyde and other formaldehyde-releasing chemicals like methylene or glycol." The significance of this move cannot be overstated – it has the power to reshape the entire cosmetic industry.
A Victory for Public Health:
This extraordinary milestone is the culmination of unwavering dedication by two prominent Black Congresswomen, Representatives Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) and Shontel Brown (D-OH). Their tireless advocacy focuses on safeguarding public health, with a particular emphasis on the well-being of Black women. Systemic racism and anti-Black hair sentiment have disproportionately exposed these women to the dangers of such products.
In the Words of Rep. Pressley:
In celebration of the FDA's groundbreaking proposal, Rep. Pressley remarked, “The FDA’s proposal to ban these harmful chemicals in hair straighteners and relaxers is a win for public health – especially the health of Black women who are disproportionately put at risk by these products as a result of systemic racism and anti-Black hair sentiment.”
Rep. Brown's Applause:
Rep. Brown echoes this sentiment, stating, “On behalf of women, especially Black women across the country, I applaud the FDA’s new proposed rule banning formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals from hair straighteners.”
The Call for Investigation:
The catalyst for this remarkable leap forward was a compelling letter penned by Reps. Pressley and Brown to the FDA earlier this year. The letter urged the agency to undertake a comprehensive and transparent investigation into chemical hair straightening products. The goal was to ascertain whether these products contain carcinogens that might elevate the risk of uterine cancer.
The Path Forward:
The issuance of the FDA's proposed rule marks the commencement of a vital process. The agency will now open its doors to public comments on the proposed rule, encouraging input from concerned citizens, organizations, and experts. Following this, the FDA will meticulously review these comments, ultimately deciding whether further actions are necessary. Per the FDA's established procedures, "Based on the comments, we might decide to end the rulemaking process, to issue a new proposed rule, or to issue a final rule." The final rule, if issued, will offer a comprehensive insight into regulatory requirements, expected impacts, and responses to the comments received.
A Long-Awaited Development:
For years, the scientific community has been diligently researching hair-straightening products, particularly those frequently used by Black women. The FDA's proactive stance represents a momentous stride towards ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers. It signals the potential for a transformation in the cosmetic industry – one that prioritizes public health and safety.
Stay Informed and Engage:
This monumental development underscores the importance of staying informed and participating in discussions around product safety. We are committed to keeping you updated as the situation unfolds, and as further investigations progress.
At Simply Go Natural, we applaud the FDA's commitment to public health and safety. We are dedicated to providing you with safe and natural alternatives to traditional hair products, and we will continue to monitor this situation closely. Some of those options are as follows ;
Shampoos:
• Simply Shea Soft Hair Shampoo
• Tangerine Shea Soft Sulfate-Free Hair Shampoo
•Rosemary Mint Shampoo -Sulphate & Paraben Free -Coconut Pride
Conditioners:
• Coconut Pride Hair Conditioner
• Simply Shea Soft Hair Conditioner
•Paraben and Silicone Free Hair Conditioner
Your health is our top priority, and we will keep you informed as this story unfolds.
With gratitude and dedication,
The Simply Go Natural Team