For many Black women, synthetic braiding hair is more than just a beauty choice—it’s part of a rich cultural tradition. But a shocking new Consumer Reports study has raised serious health concerns, revealing that all 10 popular synthetic braiding hair brands tested contained carcinogens—chemicals known to increase the risk of cancer.
This finding comes just a year after a class action lawsuit was filed against major relaxer brands, including L’Oréal’s Dark & Lovely, Just for Me, Ultra Sheen, and Motions, for allegedly contributing to nearly 10,000 cases of cancer. Now, attention has shifted to another common hair product, synthetic braiding hair, which is predominantly marketed to Black women but remains unregulated by the FDA.
Toxic Chemicals Found in Synthetic Braiding Hair
The study tested well-known brands like X-Pression Pre-Stretched Braiding Hair and Sassy’s 100% Kanekalon Jumbo Braid, screening them for heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The results were alarming:
• Carcinogens were detected in every single brand tested
• Lead was found in 9 out of 10 brands
• VOCs were released when the hair was heated, such as during the common practice of sealing braids with hot water
These toxic chemicals are known to cause a range of health issues beyond cancer, including skin irritation, headaches, and respiratory problems. Many women who wear synthetic braids for weeks at a time could be unknowingly exposing themselves to harmful substances for extended periods.
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Health Risks and Industry Negligence
James Rogers, PhD, Director and Head of Product Safety Testing at Consumer Reports, emphasized the lack of transparency from hair manufacturers.
“As a father of two Black daughters, I know firsthand that getting braids is part of the culture, and alternatives to synthetic hair aren’t always accessible or affordable,” Rogers stated.
Despite the widespread use of synthetic hair extensions, companies are not required to disclose their ingredients, leaving consumers in the dark about potential health risks.
Oriene Shin, Manager of Safety Advocacy for Consumer Reports, called out regulators for failing Black consumers:
“It’s appalling that toxic chemicals are in these products with so little scrutiny from those who are supposed to protect people.”
A Market That Profits Off Black Women, But Puts Them at Risk
The Black hair care industry is a multibillion-dollar market, with Black consumers spending six times more on hair products than other ethnic groups. Synthetic braiding hair is a staple in protective styling, yet it remains one of the least regulated beauty products.
Policymakers are being urged to step up and hold companies accountable. Advocacy groups are pushing for:
• Ingredient transparency on product labels
• Stricter safety regulations for synthetic hair
• More affordable and accessible non-toxic alternatives
What Can Consumers Do?
Until stricter regulations are enforced, those who rely on synthetic braiding hair may need to take precautionary steps:
1. Wash synthetic hair before installation – Some users report reduced irritation after soaking hair in apple cider vinegar to remove chemical residues.
2. Limit wear time – Prolonged exposure to toxic materials can increase health risks.
3. Seek safer alternatives – Brands offering non-toxic, hypoallergenic braiding hair are emerging, though accessibility remains a challenge.
4. Advocate for change – Raising awareness and demanding safer, regulated products can push the industry to do better.
The Fight for Safer Beauty Standards
For far too long, Black women have been exposed to toxic beauty products with little oversight. This latest study is yet another wake-up call. The industry must prioritize consumer safety over profit, and regulators must step in to protect the people most affected.
The question remains: How long will Black consumers have to wait for beauty products that don’t come with a hidden health risk?
