Our take
Why It’s on Our Radar
We don't recommend chemical relaxers. These are named in an active cancer MDL, and the chemistry (caustic straighteners, formaldehyde releasers, fragrance) is exactly what the litigation targets.
What's inside
Ingredients & Safety
Caustic calcium hydroxide / guanidine straighteners with petrolatum, propylene glycol, DMDM hydantoin (a formaldehyde releaser), and fragrance.
Worth a closer look — 5 ingredients we flag:
Petrolatum — commonly known as Mineral Oil
A petroleum-based moisturizer that seals in moisture; the refined cosmetic grades used in baby products are considered safe, and the concern is only with unrefined grades.
Mineral Oil — sometimes listed as Petrolatum
A petroleum-based moisturizer that seals in moisture; the refined cosmetic grades used in baby products are considered safe, and the concern is only with unrefined grades.
Propylene Glycol — sometimes listed as PG
Petroleum-derived humectant, can cause skin irritation and is a penetration enhancer for other chemicals.
DMDM Hydantoin — commonly known as Formaldehyde Releasers
Preservatives that slowly release formaldehyde.
Fragrance — sometimes listed as Parfum
Undisclosed scent blend that is a common allergen and irritant; choose fragrance-free for sensitive or reactive skin.
Ingredient List Reviewed
- Calcium Hydroxide
- Guanidine Carbonate
- Petrolatum also listed as Petrolatum, Paraffinum Liquidum Watch
- Mineral Oil also listed as Petrolatum, Paraffinum Liquidum Watch
- Cetyl Alcohol also listed as Cetyl Alcohol
- Propylene Glycol also listed as PG Caution
- DMDM Hydantoin also listed as DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15 Caution
- Fragrance also listed as Parfum, Perfume Watch
Formula scope: the disclosed ingredient list captured for this review. Formulas can differ by product, scent, country, and date; compare the current package with this list before deciding.
Want another top-tier option? ATTITUDE in Shampoo & Hair Care currently meets our top criteria. Review its formula scope and cited records before deciding.
Who owns it
Ownership & Independence
Dark & Lovely and Optimum are L'Oréal brands (SoftSheen-Carson); L'Oréal USA remains a defendant in MDL 3060 (the French parent, L'Oréal S.A., was dismissed in 2025). Just For Me is a separate brand made by Strength of Nature/Godrej and is a separate defendant.
Where to buy
Key Products
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions never influence scores.
Check the exact formula, size, seller, and availability on Amazon. Search links show results that may include other brands. Links open in a new tab.
- Dark & Lovely No-Lye Relaxer Search on Amazon →
- Optimum Relaxer Search on Amazon →