Over the years, an increasing number of studies have linked formaldehyde to cancers that are especially prevalent among Black women.

Summary

The FDA’s proposed ban on formaldehyde in hair straightening products is delayed after a Trump executive order paused federal regulations.

Formaldehyde, linked to cancer—especially in Black women—has faced calls for regulation since 2008.

Maryland, California, and Washington have banned it, and other states may follow suit.

A federal lawsuit involving thousands of women claims health harms from relaxers, with a judge set to advance the case later this year.