A new Consumer Reports investigation has found that every tested sample of synthetic braiding hair contained harmful chemicals, raising serious concerns about the safety of widely used hair products in Black communities used around the nation and world.
The study tested 10 popular brands—including Magic Fingers, Sensationnel, and Shake-N-Go—and found carcinogens, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in every product.
Among the most alarming findings was the presence of benzene, a known cancer-causing agent linked to leukemia, in several products. Methylene chloride, a probable carcinogen, was found in all tested samples. Lead, which can cause neurological and developmental damage, was detected in nine out of 10 products, with some exceeding California’s Maximum Allowable Dose Level (MADL) by over 600%.
VOCs, which are released when synthetic hair is heated during styling, pose another significant risk. The study found that all tested products emitted VOCs, with some brands releasing over 5 million micrograms per kilogram—an amount that could lead to respiratory issues, nausea, and long-term damage to the nervous system.
Synthetic braiding hair is a staple in Black communities, offering a protective styling option that reduces the need for frequent manipulation of natural hair. The $2.79 billion U.S. hair extension industry disproportionately markets these products to Black consumers, making the findings particularly troubling.
Dr. Tamarra James-Todd, a professor at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, said that these chemicals are not just sitting on the hair but are inhaled and absorbed into the scalp. She pointed to research showing that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, found in many personal care products, could impact reproductive health and increase the risk of chronic illnesses.
Despite the concerning results, no federal regulations require synthetic hair manufacturers to disclose ingredients or test for hazardous chemicals before selling their products. Consumer Reports contacted the tested brands for comment. Still, only Sensationnel and Magic Fingers responded, disputing the study’s conclusions while failing to address whether they test for lead or VOCs before products reach consumers.
Consumer safety advocates say these findings expose a long-standing issue of unregulated beauty products targeting Black women. With no federal oversight, customers are left to navigate health risks on their own.
“There’s no reason companies can’t do better,” said James E. Rogers, Consumer Reports’ director of product safety testing. “Some products had lower levels of these chemicals, proving safer alternatives are possible.”
Until stricter regulations are in place, experts recommend that consumers research brands, wash synthetic hair before use, and limit prolonged exposure.
However, as one expert put it, “The burden shouldn’t be on consumers to figure out which products won’t poison them. That’s the job of regulators and manufacturers.”