Makers of "Brazilian Blowout" hair products have reached a settlement concerning the use of their products. The popular hair-straightening product has been a boon to consumers seeking to straighten their hair, but has raised numerous health issues especially concerning the fact that at least two of the formulations emit formaldehyde gas, a possible carcinogen.
A lawsuit filed by the attorney general's office has accused the manufacturer of deceptive advertising because labels on the "Brazilian Blowout Acai Smoothing Solution" and "Brazilian Blowout Professional Smoothing Solution" stated that the products were formaldehyde free. In addition to being a possible carcinogen, formaldehyde can also irritate the eyes, skin and lungs. In a statement, Attorney General Kamala Harris notes, "California laws protect consumers and workers and give them fair notice about the health risks associated with the products they use. This settlement requires the company to disclose any hazard so that consumers can make informed choices."
Here, the State of California brought a lawsuit on behalf of consumers, but what if an individual is harmed by a dangerous product? Millions of products are bought and sold every day that are supposed to be manufactured, labeled and marketed pursuant to federal and state laws. Products as diverse as the Brazilian blow out hair product, prescription drugs, defective tires, medical devices and many other consumer products may cause dangerous side effects and even death. In those instances – either where a product is defective or lacks adequate warning – it may be possible to bring a product liability lawsuit. An experienced San Francisco product liability attorney can evaluate your particular circumstance and determine your next steps.
Based on the settlement GIB LLC, which makes the Brazilian Blow Out line, will pay $600,000 due to its failure to warn consumers and hair stylists that its products contain chemicals that may potentially cause cancer. GIB must also provide safety pamphlets concerning proper use of the products.
For more information or if you or a loved one has been harmed by a consumer product, contact the top San Francisco product liability lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for a confidential consultation.