Deborah Ward, a Black woman, experienced severe chemical burns on over 60% of her body after using a Black hair relaxer containing lye in 2020. Ward alleges that she followed the instructions on the product, which was marketed as safe for at-home use. However, the relaxer caused immediate and excruciating pain, leading to second and third-degree burns across her scalp, face, and neck.
Since the incident, Ward has undergone over a dozen surgeries, including skin grafts, and continues to experience physical and emotional trauma. Her injuries have drastically impacted her quality of life, leaving her with permanent scarring and ongoing pain.
Ward is now part of a lawsuit against L’Oréal, the parent company of the relaxer brand. The lawsuit accuses L’Oréal of negligence, claiming the company failed to adequately warn consumers about the risks associated with its products, particularly those marketed towards Black women. The suit alleges that the company knew or should have known about the potential for severe chemical burns and hair damage but prioritized profit over consumer safety.
The case is significant as it is one of many lawsuits filed against L’Oréal and other hair relaxer manufacturers by Black women who claim their products caused injuries, including burns, hair loss, and even cancer. These women argue that they were deliberately targeted with dangerous products and that the companies responsible should be held accountable.
find the original article here: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/rage-justified-woman-whose-skin-200000989.html