By Issah Olegor
A startling new report by Consumer Reports has uncovered troubling health risks associated with synthetic braiding hair products commonly used by Black women.
The study, which analyzed ten different synthetic hair products widely sold in beauty supply stores and online, found that many of them contain cancer-causing chemicals and hazardous heavy metals, including lead and benzene — raising serious concerns about long-term exposure risks for millions of consumers.
Widespread Contamination
Among the most alarming findings was the presence of lead in nine out of ten synthetic hair packs tested.
One sample reportedly exceeded California’s maximum allowable lead dose — the strictest standard in the U.S. — by more than 600%.
Benzene, a known carcinogen linked to acute myeloid leukemia, was also detected in products from well-known brands such as Magic Fingers, Sensationnel, and Shake-N-Go.
Methylene chloride, a chemical banned in cosmetics by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration due to its cancer-causing potential, was also found in the samples.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that chronic exposure to methylene chloride can result in liver and lung cancer.
“There is no safe level of exposure to lead or benzene,” said Alexa Friedman, a senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a research and health advocacy organization.
“When possible, exposure to either chemical should be avoided as they are associated with serious health effects.”
Staple in Black Hair Culture
Synthetic hair has been a cornerstone of protective hairstyles such as braids, locs, and twists — styles that are not only culturally significant but also offer a break from daily styling stress and protect natural hair from environmental damage.
However, the prolonged wear of these synthetic styles also means extended exposure to any toxic chemicals they may carry.
Most of the products tested are made using Kanekalon fiber, produced by the Japanese company Kaneka.
While Kaneka emphasized to Consumer Reports that it only manufactures the raw fiber and not the final product, the dyeing and processing of the synthetic hair is handled by the individual brands.
Industry Pushback
In response to the findings, some brands pushed back against the study’s methodology.
Both Magic Fingers and Sensationnel questioned the validity of the testing approach, suggesting it may not reflect real-world consumer use.
Despite this, both brands insisted their products are safe.
