February 2019 in “IP Indian journal of clinical and experimental dermatology” In this study, continuous use of chemical hair relaxers and curlers was associated with adverse effects such as hair fall, thinning, and scalp irritation in patients with telogen effluvium.
June 2024 in “Journal of Clinical Oncology” In this study, researchers analyzed data showing that Black women became the racial group with the highest incidence of endometrial cancer starting in 2017, associating frequent use of chemical hair relaxers with an increased risk of this cancer.
June 2023 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” This study reviewed existing research on the potential link between chemical hair relaxers and uterine cancer, highlighting the scarcity of epidemiological studies and stressing the importance of understanding straightening methods in communities of color.
January 2026 in “Psychoneuroendocrinology” Lye relaxers don't significantly change hair cortisol levels.
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May 2007 in “British Journal of Dermatology” This report describes five patients who experienced hair loss with discomfort and scarring after undergoing salon hair relaxer treatments, regardless of whether 'lye' or 'no lye' products were used.