Many Black women consider synthetic braids safe. A study found toxins in all the brands it tested

By Gloria Oladipo, The Guardian

Chemicals found in the braiding hair have been linked to increased cancer risk and organ damage

In recent years, personal care products marketed at Black women have received increased scrutiny for their toxicity, specifically chemical hair straighteners. These perms, also known as “relaxers”, have been condemned for causing severe health problems, including fertility issues, scalp irritations and increased risk of cancer.

In light of this, many Black women have turned to natural hairstyles, including braids, as a way to avoid toxic chemicals. But recent research has revealed that popular brands of synthetic braiding hair, human-made extensions that are used in these protective styles, contain dangerous carcinogens, heavy metals and other toxins. Tested brands included in a recent study from Consumer Reports (CR) were Magic Fingers, The Sassy Collection, Shake-N-Go, Darling, Debut, Hbegant and Sensationnel, all mass producers of synthetic braiding hair.

According to the CR study, all tested samples of braiding hair contained volatile organic compounds (VOCs), human-made chemicals found in paints, industrial solvents and other products. Exposure to VOCs can cause health problems, including respiratory issues, nausea and fatigue. Long-term exposure has been associated with increased cancer risk and organ damage.

Contact with chemicals in synthetic hair doesn’t only occur when the hair is installed – exposure can take place under a variety of circumstances. For instance, synthetic braiding hair can be “brittle”, causing smaller pieces of hair to break off on to hands and be accidentally consumed, said Dr James Rogers, director and head of product safety testing at CR. “Even ingesting just a small amount of braiding hair material could possibly give you enough lead exposure to push you over the limit of what is considered safe,” Rogers said.

Keep reading to discover the significance of braids.

Hair relaxers pose similar risks and have even been marketed toward children.

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