Research analyzed the presence of chemicals in natural and synthetic extensions and detected almost 50 dangerous substances, including 17 chemicals linked to the risk of breast cancer.
A new published in Environment & Health has identified dozens of potentially harmful chemicals in widely used hair extension products.
Researchers from the Silent Spring Institute and the Southwest Research Institute in the United States analyzed 43 popular hair extension products to better understand their chemical composition. The team examined natural and synthetic extensions and documented how products were marketed, including claims such as “non-toxic” and advertising aimed at younger consumers.
The findings were surprising: they were detected problematic chemicals in 41 of 43 tested products. According to the researchers, this suggests that potentially harmful substances may be much more common in hair extensions than previously thought.
The study highlights specific concerns for Black women, who are significantly more likely to use extensions capillaries. Previous research indicates that about 70% of black women regularly use hair extensions, compared to approximately 10% among other racial groups. Scientists say this raises important questions about disproportionate health risks.
To main author, Elissia Franklinanalytical chemist at the Silent Spring Institute, said the investigation aimed to fill gaps in existing knowledge. “While previous reports have found some concerning chemicals in hair extensions, there is still a lot we don’t know about their overall chemical makeup,” Franklin said.
Hair extensions are often treated with chemicals to achieve specific properties, such as flame resistance, waterproofing, or antimicrobial protection. However, researchers say regulations governing these materials are limited. To get a more comprehensive view of the chemical content, the team used a non-targeted screening approach designed to detect as many chemical compounds as possibleinstead of just searching a pre-determined list.
The study identified 48 chemicals that are on serious risk lists. Twelve of them are included in California’s Proposition 65, which monitors substances known to cause cancerbirth defects or reproductive harm. Additionally, researchers detected 17 chemicals associated with breast cancer risk in 36 of the samples.
The analysis also found four potentially harmful flame retardants and traces of organotins — industrial compounds commonly used as thermal stabilizers in plastics — in almost 10% of the products tested. Organotins have been linked to skin irritation and other biological changes in animal studies, explains the.
Researchers warn that the way hair extensions are used can increase exposure risks. Extensions are typically worn for long periods, placed close to the scalp and airways, and often heated with hairdryers or curling ironswhich can release or alter chemicals.
The study did not measure the direct effects on users’ health. Scientists say more research is needed to determine actual exposure levels and potential health impacts.
