Hair extensions, which include wigs, braiding hair, and similar products, are often made from synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, acrylic, or a mix of these materials. These are treated much like fabrics used in clothing.
These days, many women feel uncomfortable or less confident without hair extensions. They spend a lot of time and money styling their hair with them, often without thinking about—or even knowing—the possible health risks.
Hair extensions are usually either natural or synthetic. Sadly, many women remain unaware or uninterested in the health problems linked to these products. Their main concern tends to be the stylish look and confidence the extensions give. Some even dislike showing their natural hair.
However, synthetic fibres such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), kanekalon, and toyokalon are chemically treated to look like real hair. These chemicals can be absorbed through the scalp and enter the body, where they may cause harm.
Common health issues from hair extensions
Using hair extensions regularly or without proper care has led to a rise in health complaints such as:
Scalp irritation and allergic reactions, caused by synthetic fibres and glues;
Traction alopecia, a form of hair loss due to constant pulling on the scalp;
Folliculitis and scalp infections, often from poor hygiene practices;
Headaches and migraines, especially from heavy or tightly braided extensions;
Inhalation of toxic fumes during heat-styling or bonding.
Early this year, Consumer Reports tested ten popular brands of synthetic hair extensions. The results were alarming: all the samples contained harmful chemicals like benzene and methylene chloride. Even worse, 90 per cent had lead levels far above safe limits. Heating the hair released dangerous fumes, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like acetone and toluene.
Formaldehyde, a chemical sometimes found in these products, was classified as a known cancer-causing agent (Group 1 carcinogen) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2004.
Environmental impact
Synthetic hair extensions are made from materials that do not break down naturally. This means they contribute to environmental pollution. They can take hundreds of years to decompose, filling up landfills and polluting the oceans.
The chemicals and dyes used in making synthetic hair can also contaminate waterways during production. Washing these extensions at home releases microplastics into the water system—another growing concern.
Natural hair: A safer, healthier option
While natural hair used to be considered difficult to manage, today more women are proudly wearing and styling their natural hair. This shift is both a cultural and health-conscious decision. I strongly support embracing and caring for your natural hair.
Women can:
Explore creative styles using their natural hair,
Eat healthily to support hair growth,
Reduce their use of synthetic products and harsh chemicals.
Healthcare workers should also consider hair extensions as a possible cause when patients complain of headaches, skin irritation, or scalp pain. In many cases, symptoms disappear once the extensions are removed. Some women even choose to cut their hair short just to feel relief again.
Also, the unpleasant smell from hair extensions that are worn too long or not cleaned properly is a problem that is often ignored.
Conclusion
Like clothing, hair extensions are in direct contact with our bodies and can affect our health. By raising awareness, making informed choices, and educating the public, we can reduce the health risks linked to hair extensions and encourage safer, more sustainable beauty habits.
Waoo.
Thanks for this eye opening