Wifey Beauty

The research underscores that are among the most prevalent users of extensions and braiding hair → with studies showing more than 70 % of Black women report wearing them at least once per year, compared with lower rates in some other groups.

Cancer Warning: Nearly Every Hair Extension Tested Contained Toxic Chemicals A groundbreaking study reveals that many popular hair extensions may carry hidden cancer-linked chemicals — and sparks calls for urgent regulation.

Separate earlier research has independently found carcinogens, lead, and volatile compounds in synthetic braiding hair specifically used for protective styles.

Lead, Toxic Chemicals Found in Synthetic Braiding Hair Some popular synthetic hair products used for braids, twists and extensions may contain cancer-causing chemicals and high levels of lead.

Nearly all of the (human hair extensions - from wefts to itips, ktips, etc, synthetic hair, wigs, braiding hair) tested products (41 out of 43) contained hazardous chemicals spanning flame retardants, phthalates, organotins, pesticides, styrene, and more. 

The -causing products ranged from synthetic fibers to bio-based materials such as human hair, banana fiber, or silk → meaning the analysis encompassed everyday hair extensions, not solely braiding hair types.

Researchers purchased and analyzed 43 popular hair extension products from online retailers and beauty-supply stores. These included both synthetic and bio-based extensions, which can also be used for various styles including wigs, bundles, braiding styles, and human-hair extensions — not limited to only braiding hair.

Hair extensions contain many more dangerous chemicals than previously thought Products found to contain toxic organotins, flame retardants, phthalates, and other substances linked with cancer and other harmful health effects.

The study tested a broad range of hair extension products — not just braiding hair. They all caused cancer.

“New Study Finds Hazardous Chemicals in Hair Extensions Widely Used by Black Women
Researchers found 169 industrial chemicals, including compounds linked to breast cancer, in everyday hair extensions commonly used by Black women.”

Excerpt From
“New Study Finds Hazardous Chemicals in Hair Extensions Widely Used by Black Women”
Bernadette Giacomazzo
Complex

New Study Finds Hazardous Chemicals in Hair Extensions Widely Used by Black Women — Complex Researchers found 169 industrial chemicals, including compounds linked to breast cancer, in everyday hair extensions commonly used by Black women.