What You Should Know About Harmful Chemicals in Synthetic Hair Extensions

Protective Hair Styles...at what cost??

As Black women, hair isn’t just hair — it’s identity, self-expression, and at times, survival. From box braids to twists and crochet styles, synthetic hair has long been a staple in our protective styling routines. It offers convenience, versatility, and most importantly, a way to protect our natural hair from daily manipulation, heat, and environmental stress. For many of us, it’s not just about looking good — it’s about preserving the health of our hair while navigating busy lives, careers, and wellness journeys.

But…what happens when the very products we use to protect our hair start threatening our health?

In recent years, concerns have grown over the chemicals found in synthetic hair — and for good reason. Many of these styles are worn for weeks or even months at a time, which means prolonged contact with materials that could be releasing harmful toxins directly onto our scalps. The scalp is one of the most absorbent areas of the body, and when it's covered in synthetic fibers for long periods — especially under heat, sweat, and tension — it raises real questions about exposure and long-term health effects.

As we learn more about what’s hiding in some of the most popular synthetic braiding hair brands, many of us are left wondering: is the convenience worth the risk?

In this post, we’ll break down the health concerns tied to synthetic hair, explore recent findings about carcinogens like formaldehyde and lead, and look at human hair extensions as a safer, more sustainable and cost-effective alternative for protective styling.

The Concern with Synthetic Braiding Hair

Synthetic braiding hair has earned its place in our routines for a reason. It’s accessible, versatile and budget-friendly. A few packs can cost anywhere from $3 to $10 each, making it very affordable and easy-to-find. Synthetic hair also holds styles well. Pre-curled or pre-stretched hair saves time during install, and the fiber structure helps braids and twists maintain their shape over time. This allows for our protective styles to look neat for longer period of time. For many of us, it’s our go-to when traveling or when we need to relieve ourselves from daily or weekly styling.

But what’s actually in those bundles?

Most synthetic hair is made from plastic-based fibers like Kanekalon, Toyokalon, or other acrylic and PVC-based blends. These materials are engineered to look and feel somewhat like real hair, but they’re essentially plastic — treated with flame retardants, dyes, and chemical coatings that help mimic sheen, softness, and style memory. These products can be mass-produced for a low cost, which is then passed on to the consumer. But, more often than not, cheaper doesn’t mean better or even good, in this case.

According to a recent Consumer Reports investigation, which was highlighted in an Associated Press article, lab testing found dangerous levels of carcinogens in several popular brands of synthetic braiding hair. Chemicals like formaldehyde, lead, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were detected — all of which are linked to respiratory issues, reproductive harm, and cancer with prolonged exposure.

What’s worse, we often live in these styles for weeks — sometimes two months or more at a time. That’s not just short-term exposure. That’s daily, long-term contact with potentially toxic materials pressed right against the scalp — again, one of the most absorbent parts of our body.

What Can We Do With This Information?

Hearing that something we’ve relied on for years might be harmful is frustrating — especially when the safer options aren’t always the most affordable or accessible. But knowledge is power, and the more we learn, the more we can protect ourselves and make informed choices that don’t compromise our health.

1. Consider Human Hair for Protective Styling

One of the most straightforward (and safest) shifts we can make is exploring human hair extensions as an alternative for protective styles. While it’s often more of an investment upfront, human hair is free of the plastic fibers and chemical coatings found in synthetic hair.

Human hair also tends to be more breathable, blends better with natural textures, and can last longer with proper care — making it a more sustainable option over time. Styles like human hair twists, traditional sew-ins or clip-in installs and even knotless braids using curly bundles are gaining popularity because they’re not just cute — they’re safer.

2. Stay Curious & Stay Informed

The truth is, we’re still learning what’s in a lot of the products marketed to us. That’s why it’s so important to do your own research and support brands that are transparent about what’s in their products and how they’re made. Look out for upcoming studies, follow dermatologists and stylists who speak openly about product safety, and don’t be afraid to ask your stylist questions about what they’re using in your hair.

Just because something is “normal” doesn’t mean it’s safe — and that goes for everything from edge control to braiding hair.

3. Understand the Real Cost

Synthetic hair has been the cheaper option, and most of us end up buying new hair with every install. Over time, that cost adds up, but more importantly, we’re paying in ways we can’t see. Unknowingly exposing ourselves to chemicals like formaldehyde and lead, which have been linked to serious health concerns was certainly never on any of our bingo cards.

Human hair costs more upfront, but it’s reusable, longer-lasting, and isn’t tied to the same health risks. Human hair extensions can be used across multiple installs — making it a better and safer investment long-term.

When you factor in your health, comfort, and how long the hair lasts, the "cheaper" option might not be so cheap after all.

Your Hair Shouldn't Sacrifice Your Health

At the end of the day, we deserve to feel beautiful and safe. Our hair choices shouldn’t come with hidden health risks — especially when those choices are rooted in self-care, identity, and hair protection. As more research shines a light on the chemicals lurking in synthetic hair, we have every right to pause, question, and demand better.

Switching to human hair extensions or cleaner alternatives may cost more upfront, but the investment in our health, comfort, and peace of mind is worth it. If protective styles are part of your lifestyle (like they are for so many of us), it’s time to get intentional about the products we use and the impact they may have long-term.

This isn’t about fear — it’s about being informed and empowered. We can still rock our braids, twists, and extensions with pride, but let’s do it in a way that honors both our beauty and our well-being.

Because, no hairstyle is worth our health.

Looking for quality human hair extensions you can trust? Shop the Melanj Hair Curls Collection as a safe alternative.