Dark and Lovely Lawsuit

Introduced in 1972, Dark and Lovely is a popular line of chemical hair relaxers, creams, and dyes marketed primarily to Black and Brown women. These women have been using hair relaxers for generations. Historically, textured hair has been stigmatized as inconsistent with Euro-centric standards of beauty. Texturism — the idea that “good hair” is straighter hair — has deep-seated roots in American history. For decades, the brand, owned by SoftSheen-Carson under L’Oréal USA, promoted itself as a safe and effective way to straighten natural hair.

However, recent research suggests these products may expose users to EDCs that interfere with hormone regulation. Studies have identified ingredients like phthalates, parabens and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. All of these may alter estrogen and progesterone activity.

Hair relaxer lawsuits allege that long-term use of Dark and Lovely and similar products caused serious reproductive harm through chronic exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Reported injuries include:

• Uterine cancer
• Ovarian and endometrial cancers
• Uterine fibroids and hysterectomies

Research shows that EDCs found in relaxers, such as phthalates and parabens, can mimic or block the body’s own hormones, increasing cancer risk and disrupting reproductive health. The National Institutes of Health’s Sister Study, in particular, found that women who regularly used chemical straighteners had twice the likelihood of developing uterine cancer than women who did not use straighteners.

Plaintiffs in the Dark and Lovely lawsuits argue that manufacturers knew or should have known of these side effects but continued to market the products as safe. The Hair Relaxer MDL (No. 3060) was established in February 2023 to coordinate pretrial proceedings for thousands of similar lawsuits nationwide. The litigation is overseen by Judge Mary M. Rowland in the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

As of January 2026, the MDL includes more than 10,900 pending cases. These include cases against brands such as Dark and Lovely, Just for Me and Olive Oil relaxers.

The lawsuits claim manufacturers misled consumers by failing to disclose the risks of long-term chemical exposure. Discovery and expert review are ongoing, and bellwether trials are expected to help shape future hair relaxer lawsuit settlement discussions.

Women who developed ovarian, uterine or endometrial cancer after years of using Dark and Lovely or similar chemical relaxers may qualify to file a claim. To pursue compensation, plaintiffs must typically show consistent product use and a related medical diagnosis. Attorneys can help gather documentation (including medical records, purchase evidence and testimony) to build a strong case.

Those who qualify may seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses for diagnosis and treatment
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Punitive damages in cases of egregious misconduct

Most claims are part of the Chemical Hair Relaxer MDL (No. 3060), which centralizes pretrial proceedings while keeping each case independent. Filing deadlines vary by state, so consulting a toxic exposure lawyer early is crucial to preserving your rights and determining the best course of action.

Motley Rice leads litigation brought by thousands of women harmed by defective products. Our law firm has extensive experience litigating product liability lawsuits for women who:

• Developed ovarian cancer after using talc-based baby powder for feminine hygiene
• Suffered breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) allegedly caused by Allergan implants
• Endured severe complications allegedly caused by birth control devices such as Essure® and Paragard®
• Suffered complications arising from the use of transvaginal mesh

Many people have been impacted by ovarian cancer, uterine cancer or endometrial cancer allegedly caused by using chemical hair relaxers. If you believe you have been similarly harmed, consider discussing your options with an attorney with experience in multidistrict litigation (MDL) and class actions.

Read more on our toxic exposure litigation experience.