California SB 236 Hair Relaxer Bill: What It Means for Cosmetic Brands
California has once again taken the lead in cosmetic safety with the introduction of SB 236, the Hair Relaxer Bill (C.U.R.L. Act). This new law is set to reshape how hair relaxer products are formulated, tested, and sold in California. If your brand manufactures or distributes relaxers, this legislation could have a direct impact on your business and long-term compliance strategy.
What Is the California SB 236 Hair Relaxer Bill?
The SB 236 hair relaxer bill specifically targets products designed to chemically straighten curly or coily hair. Lawmakers introduced it in response to growing health concerns, particularly links between relaxer use and higher risks of reproductive conditions and cancers.
Under the bill, by 2030:
- Hair relaxers may no longer contain certain prohibited chemicals such as formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP).
- Manufacturers must register their products with California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC).
- Companies will need to submit compliance statements and, if required, testing results from approved third-party laboratories.
- Non-compliance may lead to significant civil penalties starting at $10,000 per violation.
Why Is California Introducing This Law?
California’s legislature has often been ahead of the curve in cosmetic safety (think Prop 65 and fragrance transparency laws). The California hair relaxer law reflects growing scientific evidence that some relaxers contain ingredients linked to endocrine disruption and reproductive harm.
Research, including the Sister Study, has found associations between frequent use of chemical relaxers and increased risk of uterine and ovarian cancers. Because these products are disproportionately used by Black and Latina women, lawmakers also framed SB 236 as a public health equity measure.
What Cosmetic Brands Need to Do Now
If you manufacture or distribute relaxers that may be sold in California, here’s how to prepare:
- Start reformulation planning now to remove restricted chemicals before the 2030 deadline.
- Conduct toxicology and lab testing early to confirm compliance.
- Keep thorough records of ingredients, test reports, and supplier certifications.
- Stay updated on DTSC testing protocols, which must be published by 2028.
- Consider labeling and marketing strategies to avoid unintentional compliance risks.
Conclusion: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
The SB 236 hair relaxer bill is more than just another state law. It sets a new standard for cosmetic safety in California, and could inspire similar moves in other states. Brands that act now will avoid costly reformulations later, protect their reputation, and build consumer trust in a competitive market.
If you need tailored guidance on the California hair relaxer law (SB 236), from ingredient reviews to compliance strategy, contact us today. Our team at Cosmereg specializes in helping cosmetic brands navigate U.S. regulations with clarity and confidence.
