Chemical carcinogens were found in popular synthetic hair products, raising safety concerns.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Chemicals that could cause cancer were found in 10 products used in braids, extensions, and other hair styles. Researchers say their findings took almost 90 years of testing.
The products are popular for protective styles, but researchers say they could cause more harm than good. Christy Price, the owner of Charlotte beauty shop Styles by Christy P. says that while this news is disheartening, it doesn’t come as a surprise.
Lawanda Carter says she stopped using synthetic braiding hair after experiencing negative results.
“The hair would make me itch, it makes my scalp itch,” Carter explained.
Consumer Reports conducted a study that detected carcinogens or chemicals that potentially cause cancer in 10 well-known synthetic hair products, mostly used by African American women.
“That’s really concerning, that’s scary,” said Carter.
Some of the products include Magic Fingers, Shake-N-Go, Sassy Collection, and Sensational.
Dr. James Rogers, Director of Product Safety testing and Research with Consumer Reports, says they chose to test artificial braiding hair after asking African American women about the most common personal care products they had concerns about. Braiding hair was at the top of the list.
“I was very concerned with the heavy metal results because nine out of the 10 products had lead. The lead amounts that we saw in 90 percent of the products were alarming to us,” Rogers said.
Price recommends safer products to her clients who want braids.
“They have other healthier options. They do have chemical-free braiding hair,” Price said.
Magic Fingers and Sensational were two of the companies that responded saying they did not agree with the methodology used to test the products. Both manufacturers argue their products are safe.
Carter, whose daughter still gets braids, encourages her to research the products.
“Google, read, ask other stylists,” Carter said.
Researchers also want to test wigs, hair pieces, and clip-ons to see if they can be harmful too.
In the meantime, Dr. Rogers is hoping to get these products regulated more closely at the state level, but he hopes the FDA will look into this as well and put stricter regulations in place.
The full report and list of impacted products can be found here.
