A new report is sounding the alarm for anyone who spends hours in a stylist’s chair. A study from the Silent Spring Institute recently revealed that the synthetic and human hair used for braids, wigs, and extensions is often loaded with the same hazardous chemicals used to make floor tiles and pesticides.
After testing 43 different products, researchers found that nearly every single one contained hidden dangers like flame retardants and plastic stabilizers. Elissia Franklin, the lead author of the study, noted that 41 out of the 43 products tested contained hazardous chemicals. Only two brands, Spetra and Latched & Hooked, were found to be clear of these toxins because they were manufactured specifically to be “non-toxic.”
The health risks are particularly high for Black women, who frequently use these products for “protective” styling. The researchers identified 17 different compounds linked to breast cancer and others known to cause birth defects.
Dr. Chris Pernell, director of the NAACP Center for Health Equity, explained that these chemicals can enter the body through the scalp or be inhaled when stylists use heat. “While some of these compounds are known to be carcinogens, such as benzene, or have neurotoxicity like lead, it is unclear whether these chemicals in hair products lead to cancer or neurological impairments,” she said. However, she emphasized that the mere presence of these substances “warrants attention, inquiry, and regulation.”
One of the most shocking finds in the study was the presence of organotins, chemicals usually found in PVC piping. “It was the organotin compounds that stood out to us, in particular because that’s not commonly found in consumer products,” Franklin said. These substances are notorious for disrupting hormones and damaging the environment. For many women, this creates a frustrating “catch-22.”
Lariah Edwards of Columbia University pointed out that styles meant to protect natural hair from harsh relaxers are now exposing women to a different set of poisons. “To find out that this style is also exposing them to toxic chemicals is really unfortunate,” Edwards added.
While the beauty industry has a long way to go, some lawmakers are finally pushing for change. Representative Ayanna Pressley is currently backing the Safer Beauty Bill Package to force the FDA to actually regulate what goes into these products. In the meantime, experts suggest that consumers look for “toxic-free” labels or try an apple cider vinegar rinse to help strip away some of the surface chemicals.
As Dr. Pernell put it, people shouldn’t have to risk their health for a hairstyle. “Just as we fight for clean air, safe streets, access to green spaces, and healthy, affordable food, the public and historically marginalized communities, particularly, have the right not to bear disproportionate risks from consumer products,” she said.
