A recent Consumer Reports study has raised alarm over harmful ingredients in synthetic hair products used in popular Black hairstyles, including braids and extensions. The study found that brands like Magic Fingers, Sensationnel, and Shake-N-Go contained cancer-causing substances, including benzene, methylene chloride, and lead.
Lead, which can cause developmental issues in children and reproductive problems in adults, was found in nine out of ten products tested. One sample had lead levels over 600% above California’s safety limit. While there are no federal limits for lead in synthetic hair products, the study used California’s stricter guidelines.
These synthetic hair products, often made from Kanekalon fibers, pose health risks due to prolonged exposure as they are commonly worn for weeks. The study also highlights a troubling trend of toxic chemicals in products marketed to Black women, including chemical hair relaxers, which have been linked to uterine cancer.
Experts from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) emphasize the need for more regulation and transparency in the beauty industry. Their Skin Deep database rates products’ safety, helping consumers make informed choices. The findings call for manufacturers to prioritize safety and protect consumer health.
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