JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has raised concerns about the safety of synthetic braiding hair, a product widely used by many, especially Black individuals, including children.
The investigation found potentially dangerous chemicals, including cancer-causing substances, in all the hair samples tested.
For many Black women and children, braids are more than just a hairstyle. They are a form of self-expression, a symbol of heritage, and a practical way to protect natural hair. However, the findings from Consumer Reports have prompted some to reconsider the hair they use due to potential health risks.
Braided hairstyles are not just a fashion statement; they are a time-tested tradition that simplifies hair care.
“I like to wear braids because it saves me time in the morning. They’re convenient, you can just style it and go,” said Monique Little.
Consumer Reports tested 10 popular synthetic braiding hair products, and the results were alarming. Every sample contained carcinogens—chemicals that may cause cancer. James Rogers, Consumer Reports' director of product safety, noted that three of the samples tested positive for benzene, a carcinogen that is highly regulated due to its potential to cause cancer.
Rogers also highlighted that lead was found in 90 percent of the products tested.
“There is no safe level of lead,” he stated. “Our risk assessments and exposure models indicate that users of these nine products could be exposed to concerning levels of lead over time.”
The risks extend beyond just the presence of carcinogens. When synthetic hair is dipped in hot water during installation—a common practice—it releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs.
Consumer Reports reached out to all the brands tested for comment. Only two, Sensationnel and Magic Fingers, responded, both disagreeing with the test methodology.
Sensationnel stated, “We unequivocally stand by the safety of Sensationnel products, and our company urges consumers to continue to confidently use Sensationnel products.” Magic Fingers echoed this sentiment, saying, “We strongly stand by the safety of our products and the quality materials used to make them.”
For those who use or install synthetic braids, experts recommend taking safety precautions to reduce risks. These include checking for product recalls, reading labels carefully, and limiting how long the style is worn.
If you or someone you know has experienced reactions to synthetic braiding hair, Consumer Reports advises consulting a doctor and considering filing a report with the FDA.
Digging deeper into the study
Angela Armstrong is a nurse practitioner who specializes in Dermatology. She said people should be aware of ingredients in synthetic hair, but not alarmed.
“It’s interesting because you had to ingest it, meaning hair would have to enter the digestive system, for it to actually be a problem,' she said.
She also recommends wearing synthetic braids no longer than six weeks and other protective hairstyles no longer than eight weeks.
Armstrong also said the popular apple cider vinegar rinse that’s often seen on social media, does not get rid of the chemicals that are in synthetic hair.
“It’s not true that it’s stripping the heavy metals that are in the study,” she said. “It will only remove manufacturing chemicals during the process, but not heavy metals.”
Advice from licensed cosmetologist
Cosmetologist Eboni Jones is the founder of Braid Essentials and specializes in natural hair. She said there are several options for people who prefer not to wear synthetic hair.
“You can really get so creative with the natural hair,” Jones said. “You can do natural hair cornrows, two-strand twists, an updo. You can get as creative as you would like to be, based on your lifestyle and occupation.”
Jones created a braid care system, to help people maintain healthy hairstyles.
She said the hair damage can start by not using the right type of products, and it’s one of the reasons she became an advocate for healthy hair.
Jones’ products can be found here.
Synthetic hair alternatives at local beauty supply stores
Jamicia Grigsby is the owner of Eloure Beauty Supply store in Jacksonville’s Oceanway neighborhood. Her store has options if people are looking for synthetic hair alternatives.
“Human hair is another option,” she said. “It’s typically more expensive because it comes from a human hair donor, but there are several varieties.”
She said human hair wigs are a popular alternative, as well as human hair bundles that can be used for braided hairstyles.
Grigsby said Black women are the largest consumers in the beauty industry, but make up only five percent of beauty supply store owners. She said representation in the beauty industry is important.
For more information on Eloure Beauty Supply, click here.
For more information on the Consumer Reports study, click here.