Dating all the way back to studies initially conducted in 2013, harmful chemicals have continued to be found in synthetic braiding hair that can pose dangerous effects to the demographic that uses this hair the most, Black women. As of February 2026, research studies are showing that unregulated chemicals are prevalent in 90 percent of tested samples of braiding hair brands such as the popularly known Kanekalon, Sensationnel, Magic Fingers and Sassy Collection.
Harmful substances such as lead, carcinogens, flame retardants, organotins, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and phthalates. These substances are known to cause health risks such as rashes, contact dermatitis on the scalp, neck, and face, potential cancer, hormonal issues, reproductive issues, and even damage to the nervous system in some cases.
Associate Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Emory University, Cherie C. Hill, MD, OB-GYN, said the following in a report conducted by Healthline. “Fibroids respond to estrogen and progesterone. So, there may be a link between what we’re putting in and on our body and then fibroid tumor growth.”
An interesting fact about the chemicals in the products that many consumers may not fully realize is that stylists who install the braids and utilize braiding hair in general, by merely touching the product, are also exposed to the chemicals used.
Thus, Black women and girls utilize braiding hair to assist with hair maintenance and hair health and to also embrace their own cultural identity while also navigating various systems that promote and even, in some cases, force white-centered beauty standards.
The Silent Spring Institute released a study on Feb. 11. that fully breaks down various findings that illustrate the dangers of braiding hair. More than 60 percent of Black women report wearing hair extensions at least once in the past year, compared to less than 10 percent of women of other races.
“While prior reports have found some chemicals of concern in hair extensions, there’s still much we don’t know about their overall chemical makeup. We wanted to get a better picture of the extent of the problem,” said Dr. Elissia Franklin, lead author and a research scientist at the Silent Spring Institute. “This is an industry that has long overlooked the health of Black women, who should not have to choose between cultural expression, convenience, and their health.”
Braiding hair is often supplemented with chemicals during its creation so it can be waterproof, flame-retardant, and antimicrobial. When braiding hair is added to one’s head, blended with natural hair, touching one’s neck and scalp, chemicals are released, especially when the hair is heated and styled.
Franklin continued, “Yet, companies rarely disclose the chemicals used to achieve these properties, leaving consumers in the dark about health risks from prolonged wear.”
Key findings from the study include:
48 chemicals, including 12 listed within California’s Proposition for causing birth defects, cancer, and reproductive issues, have been found on major hazard lists.
All except only two samples conducted in the study contained dangerous chemicals. The chemicals were labeled as “toxic-free” or “non-toxic,” showing a lack of transparency for consumers.
A total of 17 chemicals that have been linked to breast cancer were found in 36 samples. It also included compounds that are known to change hormones and increase risk.
Almost 10 percent of the sample consisted of toxic organotins, some at high concentrations that exceed health-based standards of the European Union, where these particular chemicals are regulated.
The beauty industry in the US has yet to be fully regulated, as it has no safety requirements or testing standards and doesn’t even recall products that have been known to cause danger, according to Healthline. Another example of this can be seen through the several lawsuits that have been filed by Black women showing links to hair relaxers that cause uterine and other types of cancers.
“These companies should not make products that harm their consumers… people should not be allowed to sell these products without testing them and making sure that they do not cause harm… I don’t think we should have to choose between our beauty or our culture.”
Brands that are known to be toxic-free and hypoallergenic, and safer alternatives, include Latched and Hooked, Nourie, Dosso Beauty, Rebundle, Ruka, and more. It is a known fact that the price of getting one’s hair braided can be quite pricey, and everyone cannot afford human hair extensions for braids; in most cases, it is not cost-effective.
The brands previously listed offer great texture, are itch-free, and use plant-based materials that are free from toxic chemicals and heavy metals such as lead. For more information and to read the full study, visit silentspring.org.
