In the early 1900’s chemical hair straighteners were developed for African Americans and others with curly hair to conform to the Eurocentric beauty standards.
Societal norms have been a strong influence on Black women to use hair products. Even those that have let their hair be “natural” are often told to straighten their hair in order to get hired or receive promotions. Chemicals in these products are connected with cancers.
The American Cancer Society reported that women who use hair straighteners more than 4 times in a year were about 2½ times more likely to develop uterine cancer.
Who should define beauty and what is its cost?
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