A new study found chemicals on hazard lists, including carcinogens and reproductive toxicants, in 91% of 44 tested hair extension products.
Four synthetic products contained organotin plastic stabilizers at levels exceeding European Union safety limits, which leached into warm water.
Products marketed as “non-toxic” or “phthalate-free” sometimes contradicted their own claims, though two products did test clean.
The $14 billion industry has virtually no ingredient disclosure requirements, leaving consumers in the dark.
Black women, who use extensions at seven times the rate of White women, bear a disproportionate potential exposure, raising serious health concerns.
In an industry projected to reach $14 billion globally by 2028, a groundbreaking new study reveals a troubling lack of transparency and safety. Research published in the journal Environment & Health has found that the vast majority of hair extensions—both synthetic and natural—contain chemicals flagged on authoritative hazard lists, including substances linked to cancer and reproductive harm. The findings spotlight a significant regulatory gap.
Read Full Article: https://www.naturalnews.com/2026-02-13-study-finds-cancer-linked-chemicals-in-hair-extensions.html
