Hair Extensions: Could Synthetic Hair Contain Chemicals Linked to Breast Cancer?
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A comprehensive study reveals that synthetic hair extensions used by millions of women worldwide could be linked to breast cancer, hormone-related issues, and reproductive problems.
Scientists report finding nearly 50 harmful chemicals in various types of synthetic hair extensions.
Published in the American Chemical Society journal, the study calls for strict regulations on the multi-billion-dollar synthetic hair industry and emphasizes the need for consumers to be better informed.
Lead author Alicia Franklin stated, “Synthetic hair is worn for weeks or even longer, and because it is in contact with the scalp, it can pose long-term health risks.”
Franklin added, “The hair stays on your scalp for weeks or months. Prolonged use can lead to chronic health issues.”
Harmful Chemicals
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The global synthetic hair market is projected to surpass $1.4 billion by 2028.
Many women use synthetic hair to enhance fashion and beauty, including a significant number of Black women who use it for easier hair management.
Synthetic hair products range widely in price, from as low as $20 to thousands of dollars.
Scientists identified 170 chemical compounds across 43 tested samples.
Among these, 48 chemicals are listed on international hazard lists and categorized as dangerous by the United Nations and the European Chemicals Agency.
Franklin explained, “These include compounds used in fire retardants, pesticides, and phthalates that affect reproductive health and the endocrine system.”
Seventeen chemicals linked to breast cancer were found in 36 synthetic hair samples (both artificial and natural). Some samples contained up to 10% of toxic substances used in flame-retardant plastics.
Researchers expressed surprise at detecting organotin compounds — not generally found in everyday consumer products — which are believed to cause hormone imbalances and negatively impact reproductive and developmental health in humans.
Some chemicals used in plastic manufacturing, thought to trigger breast cancer through biochemical changes, were also present.
Are Human Hair Extensions Safe?
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Earlier studies on synthetic hair found hazardous heavy metals; this study also included analysis of 11 human hair samples.
Human hair is marketed as premium and unprocessed by chemical treatments.
All these samples were sourced from a single donor.
Yet, some human hair samples contained more endocrine-disrupting chemicals than synthetic counterparts.
Franklin points out, “Even when labeled as human hair, these products may not be safer than factory-made synthetic hair.”
Franklin, affiliated with the Silent Spring Institute, which investigates environmental causes of breast cancer, explains that dangerous chemicals were found in human hair likely due to contamination during production or handling.
The study did not quantify chemical levels, but Franklin notes that even small amounts of hormone-disrupting agents can have an effect.
When synthetic hair is styled with heat or dipped in boiling water, it can release toxic fumes inhaled into the body.
These chemicals also penetrate the body via skin contact, potentially causing health issues not only for users but also for hairdressers.
Some individuals experience scalp and neck irritation, numbness on the face, and respiratory problems.
How to Use Synthetic Hair Safely?
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There is currently no well-established method to use chemically treated hair safely. Researchers found that washing hair with vinegar produced minimal benefits.
Only two out of 43 samples tested showed no detectable harmful chemicals, but Franklin questions the reliability of these claims.
“There is no effective system to regulate these products and their use, allowing harmful actors to avoid consequences,” Franklin adds.
The UK plans to introduce legislation addressing these concerns by August 2026.
Chemicals used in hair dyeing and straightening, which are regulated separately from synthetic hair, have also been linked to increased breast cancer risk.
Some manufacturers claim quality assurance, but Franklin states, “These brands are not yet widely available, so we had no choice but to test whatever was accessible in the market.”
“Therefore, it is essential for users of synthetic hair extensions to pay attention to the findings of this study.”
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