The Georgia Supreme Court ruled on October 15, 2025, allowing Kiara Burroughs to move forward with her lawsuit against hair relaxer makers L’Oreal and Strength of Nature. She claims the products caused her uterine fibroids after years of use, in a decision that could open doors for similar cases across the state.
This unanimous ruling overturns a lower court’s dismissal based on Georgia’s 10-year statute of repose. Justices clarified that the time limit applies to each purchase, not just the first one, giving new hope to women alleging health harms from these popular hair straightening items.
Details of the Supreme Court Decision
The court focused on the wording of Georgia’s statute of repose. Justices said the law’s “first sale” phrase refers to the initial retail sale to the user, but it does not block claims for later purchases within the 10-year window.
Kiara Burroughs started using the products around 1995 and continued until 2014. Her 2018 diagnosis of uterine fibroids prompted the suit in 2022, after a study linked hair relaxers to higher cancer risks.
In the opinion, Justice Andrew Pinson wrote that interpreting “first” too broadly would unfairly limit valid claims. The decision keeps the scope narrow, avoiding broader product liability changes.
This ruling came after the Georgia Court of Appeals sided with the companies, arguing the clock started with Burroughs’ earliest buy. The Supreme Court rejected that view, emphasizing fair access to justice for ongoing exposures.
Experts say this sets a precedent for how statutes of repose apply in repetitive use cases, potentially affecting hundreds of lawsuits in Georgia alone.
Background on Hair Relaxer Products and Lawsuits
Hair relaxers, used mainly by women with curly hair to achieve straight styles, contain chemicals like sodium hydroxide or guanidine hydroxide. These products have faced scrutiny since a 2017 federal lawsuit claimed links to various cancers.
Burroughs’ case gained traction after an October 2022 study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found women using chemical straighteners had a higher risk of uterine cancer. The research tracked over 33,000 women and noted frequent users faced up to 4% lifetime risk, compared to 1.6% for non-users.
Lawsuits have surged nationwide, with thousands filed against major brands. In Georgia, women report issues like fibroids, which affect up to 80% of Black women by age 50, according to health data.
Companies deny the claims, stating their products meet safety standards. However, ongoing multidistrict litigation in federal courts has consolidated over 8,000 cases as of October 2025.
Recent updates show some settlements in progress, with victims potentially receiving $120,000 to $150,000 in severe cancer cases, based on legal analyses.
Health Risks Linked to Hair Relaxers
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and fertility issues. While common, studies suggest chemical exposures may increase their occurrence.
Key findings from recent research include:
- A 2023 study by the National Institutes of Health linked frequent hair relaxer use to higher uterine cancer rates, especially among Black women who use them more often.
- Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in relaxers, like parabens and phthalates, may interfere with hormones, leading to fibroids or cancers.
- Symptoms of fibroids include pelvic pain, frequent urination, and complications during pregnancy.
Women affected often face medical bills and lost wages. Burroughs reported using the products for nearly two decades before her diagnosis, highlighting long-term risks.
Health organizations recommend alternatives like natural styling or heat tools, urging users to watch for early symptoms and consult doctors.
Broader Impact on Georgia Cases
This ruling could revive stalled lawsuits in Georgia, where the statute of repose has blocked many claims. Attorneys predict an influx of filings from women with similar stories.
| Key Lawsuit Milestones | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Federal Filing | 2017 | First case claims hair relaxers cause cancers. |
| Major Study Released | October 2022 | Links straighteners to uterine cancer risk. |
| Burroughs’ Diagnosis | 2018 | Leads to her 2022 lawsuit filing. |
| Georgia Supreme Court Ruling | October 15, 2025 | Allows case to proceed, clarifying time limits. |
| Expected Settlement Talks | Late 2025 | Potential payouts for thousands of plaintiffs. |
The decision aligns with national trends, as federal courts push for resolutions. In Atlanta, support groups for affected women have formed, sharing stories and resources.
Legal experts note this may pressure companies to settle faster, avoiding lengthy trials. Georgia’s high court emphasized consumer protection in product safety disputes.
What This Means for Consumers and Future Litigation
Consumers now have clearer paths to challenge long-term product harms. The ruling underscores the need for better warnings on hair relaxers, possibly leading to regulatory changes.
Nationwide, the litigation highlights racial disparities, as Black women use these products more and face higher fibroid rates. Advocacy groups call for more research and safer alternatives.
Looking ahead, similar cases in other states may reference this decision. Settlement amounts could rise if more evidence emerges linking chemicals to health issues.
If you or someone you know has been affected by hair relaxers, consult a lawyer or doctor promptly. Share this article with friends who might benefit, and drop a comment below on your thoughts about product safety laws.
