FDA’s Formaldehyde Ban Delayed Amid Growing Health Concerns 

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United States: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) runs an investigation into formaldehyde-based chemical hair straighteners because these products emit formaldehyde under heat exposure. Extensive scientific evidence links these chemicals to different cancer forms especially for Black women. Regulatory action to ban these products received a delay until September 2024 because of ongoing obstacles during this period, as reported by HealthDay. 

The Trump Administration’s Executive Order Stalls Progress 

As part of his executive order in 2017 President Donald Trump formally blocked upcoming regulations which included a ban on formaldehyde in hair products. Recent evidence demonstrates serious health risks from chemicals yet the FDA faces delays that impede quick regulatory changes. 

Health Advocate Groups Push for Immediate Action 

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) maintains its position demanding the absolute prohibition of formaldehyde in hair straighteners. Health advocate groups show deepening concern about the FDA’s delayed decision while observing its original timeline to complete evaluations through April 2024. 

State-Level Actions and Federal Class Action Lawsuit 

The inability of federal authorities to take action has led states including Maryland along with California and Washington to pass individual restrictions on formaldehyde in hair products. The U.S. sees women class actions against chemical hair relaxer brands alleging that their products cause both breast and uterine cancer as well as various health issues. 

Regulatory Gaps in U.S. Cosmetic Laws 

U.S. law does not compel the Food and Drug Administration to examine cosmetic ingredients or evaluate products before commercial distribution unless certain additives are included. Current regulatory gaps expose consumers to potential dangers because regulators have failed to resolve the formaldehyde controversy in hair straighteners, as reported by HealthDay.