A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has found cancer-causing chemicals and high levels of lead in synthetic braiding hair widely used in protective hairstyles. The report, published on February 27th, tested ten brands, including Magic Fingers, Sensationnel, and Shake-N-Go, and detected hazardous substances in all of them.
The study identified benzene, a known carcinogen linked to acute myeloid leukemia, and methylene chloride, a chemical associated with lung and liver cancer. Additionally, nine of the ten tested products contained lead, which can cause developmental issues in children and reproductive harm in adults. One product exceeded California’s maximum allowable lead dose by over 600%.
Crystal Thomas, a medical student in New York, began researching synthetic hair after experiencing throat irritation and difficulty sleeping while wearing Kanekalon braiding hair. “I couldn’t sleep well, my throat felt irritated, and I had trouble focusing on any type of work I was doing because of the smell,” she told Consumer Reports. Even after washing her hair multiple times, the odor remained.
Protective hairstyles such as braids, locs, and twists are often worn for extended periods, increasing exposure to these chemicals. Consumer Reports warned that prolonged contact with the substances found in synthetic hair could pose serious health risks.
Despite these findings, some manufacturers defended their products. 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 also rejected concerns, saying, “We strongly stand by the safety of our products and the quality materials used to make them.” The companies also disputed the testing methods used in the report, arguing they did not reflect real-world use.
There are no federal limits on lead in synthetic braiding hair, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not allow methylene chloride in cosmetics. Alexa Friedman, a senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group, cautioned against exposure to harmful substances, stating, “There is no safe level of exposure to lead or benzene.”
Consumer advocates have urged greater transparency and regulation of beauty products marketed to Black women. “Everyone deserves access to safe products,” Friedman said. “Manufacturers should prioritize safety for consumers.”
