Wayne County Pushes ‘Our Hair, Our Health’ Resolution to Ban Harmful Chemicals in Black Hair Products

Wayne County Commissioner Monique Baker McCormick spearheads a resolution that seeks to ban toxic chemicals in hair products marketed to Black women. The measure, called "Our Hair, Our Health," aims to set clearer safety standards and prohibit certain ingredients that supporters say pose health risks.

"This is very personal to me," Baker McCormick said, per CBS Detroit. "We have to advocate for ourselves because if we don't, no one else will."

The proposal would prompt the beauty industry to remove what the commissioner describes as cancer-causing substances from hair care items. "We want it to be clear that they cannot have these cancer-causing toxic chemicals," she said. "Right now, it's optional. We don't want there to be any options on the table."

The resolution comes amid a long history of Black hair and health concerns. A report from Emory University shows many Black Americans turned to hair straightening in the late 19th century to avoid discrimination. Chemical straighteners became mainstream by the 1950s.

The 1960s "Black is Beautiful" movement encouraged a return to natural hair. That shift continues today alongside laws like the CROWN Act, which bans hair-based discrimination.

In Detroit, often called the hair capital of the world, more Black women are embracing natural styles. However, advocates say harmful substances remain a concern in many products.

Licensed cosmetologist Shaynae' Clark said the transition may present challenges for the industry. "Will it be a bad thing? Absolutely not," Clark said. "Will it be a good thing? Yes and no, because we're going to need something to substitute everything we use to do our hair."

Clark stressed the need for better training within the field. "Get educated stylists so we can, as a whole and as a culture, really change the trajectory of what's happening in the industry," she said.

The resolution also calls for more education and culturally informed approaches within the beauty sector. Supporters say the measure focuses on public health and equity.

The resolution, if adopted, could make the county a national leader in regulating hair product safety. For now, supporters view the resolution as a starting point to raise awareness and protect future generations.

"I think that focus is definitely here to stay," Clark said.