Should you stop using synthetic hair?

Is it time to rethink a staple in Black women’s hair care?

On March 4th, my friend sent me a report that stopped me in my tracks. It was about something many Black women, including me, have relied on for years and have come to love. Synthetic hair extensions. It would be hard to find a Black hair salon that doesn’t promote this style, a celebrity who hasn’t worn it with confidence, or a fashion trend that hasn’t embraced it as the go-to look.

But the report went on. It wasn't about bad quality or shedding; it was about toxicity.

Carcinogens. Lead. Chemicals linked to leukemia.

I had always assumed synthetic hair was safe. After all, if it’s sold in beauty supply stores everywhere, it has to be regulated, right? 

Turns out, synthetic hair is not monitored by the FDA, meaning manufacturers don’t have to disclose what’s inside.

That got me thinking: Is it time to let synthetic hair go? And if so, how do we protect our hair without it?

HAIR EXTENSIONS: BEAUTY OR DANGER?

Hair extensions have long been celebrated for their versatility. Whether you want extra length, volume, or a fresh new style, they offer an instant transformation. For many Black women, synthetic hair makes protective styles like braids, twists, and faux locs easier to install and maintain.

The most common type of synthetic hair—Kanekalon—is produced by a single company, KaneKa, and is widely used across various brands. But here’s the problem: studies now show that synthetic hair isn’t just made of plastic, it is packed with chemicals that can pose serious health risks.

What’s Hiding in Your Synthetic Hair?

A recent study by Consumer Reports, a respected nonprofit organization founded in 1936, dedicated to testing and reviewing products for consumer safety, examined multiple brands of synthetic hair and uncovered alarming levels of toxic substances, including:

• Lead – Some extensions contained over 600 times the legal limit of lead in states like California and Massachusetts. Lead is known to cause neurological damage, reproductive issues, and developmental delays.

• Benzene – This highly toxic compound is linked to leukemia and other blood cancers. It’s so dangerous that lab workers are discouraged from handling it.

• Methylene chloride – This chemical is associated with lung and liver cancer. Exposure can also cause dizziness, headaches, and respiratory issues.

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – Every single synthetic hair sample tested contained VOCs, which are known to cause headaches, nausea, and even long-term organ damage.

What Does This Mean for Protective Hairstyles?

Protective hairstyles, like braids, twists, and faux locs, are meant to help natural hair grow better. But if the synthetic hair used in these styles is loaded with toxins, then what is the cost? Many women wear these styles for weeks at a time, meaning prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals.

With the lack of regulation in the synthetic hair industry, companies aren’t required to disclose what’s in their products. That means the extensions you’re wearing right now could contain toxic materials, and you’d have no way of knowing.

SO, WHAT DO WE DO ABOUT BRAIDS?

For many, ditching synthetic hair altogether feels impossible. Long, flowing braids are a cultural staple. But given what we now know, it’s time to rethink the way we approach protective styling.

Protective Styles That Don’t Require Synthetic Hair

If you still love the look and feel of long, full braids, you don’t have to give them up completely. Here are safer options:

Two-Strand Twists – These involve dividing a small section of hair into two and twisting the strands around each other to form a rope-like structure. They work beautifully on both short and long hair, helping to retain moisture and reduce breakage. Since they don’t require added hair, your scalp stays free from tension, promoting healthy hair growth.

Bantu Knots – This style involves twisting sections of hair into small, coiled knots close to the scalp. Not only does it create a bold, beautiful look, but it also helps with moisture retention and curl definition. Plus, when you take them down, you get effortless heat-free curls!

Flat Twists – Similar to cornrows but done by twisting instead of braiding, flat twists are gentle on the scalp while still keeping hair neatly tucked away. They are great for low-maintenance styling and help reduce manipulation, which can prevent breakage.Cornrows – A timeless classic, cornrows involve braiding the hair close to the scalp in neat, structured rows. Because the hair is tightly woven, cornrows protect the ends from damage and keep moisture locked in. They are also the perfect base for styles like wigs or clip-ins, offering versatility without the damage.

Chunky Twists (Jumbo Twists)- If you love the look of twists but want something fuller and faster to install, chunky twists (also known as jumbo twists) are a great alternative. They’re basically a bigger, looser variation of two-strand twists, giving you that effortlessly stylish, natural look while keeping your hair protected. One of the best things about this style is its versatility. You can wear the twists as they are for a carefree, voluminous look, gather them into a chic bun, or even pin them up into an elegant updo.

How to Grow Long, Healthy Hair Without Using Synthetic Extensions

Switching to safer styling methods doesn’t mean sacrificing length or beauty. In fact, by avoiding the harsh chemicals in synthetic hair, you’re giving your natural hair a better chance to thrive.

Healthy Hair Care Tips for Growth & Strength

Moisturize Daily – Hydrated hair is less prone to breakage. Use water-based leave-ins and seal with natural oils like jojoba or castor oil.

Scalp Care is Key – A healthy scalp means healthy hair. Keep it clean, massage it regularly, and avoid buildup from

Heavy Products - Eyi Dara shampoo is perfect for your scalp. It is made with 99% naturally derived ingredients that locks in moisture, prevents dryness, and protects your hair from damage.

ÈYÍ DÁRA shampoo bar is formulated to give you results you can see and feel.

Low Manipulation – Too much styling can lead to breakage. Keep things simple and gentle.

Trim When Needed – Split ends travel up the hair shaft, causing more damage. Regular trims keep hair strong.

Eat for Hair Health – Nutrients like biotin, iron, and omega-3s promote strong, thick hair.

Should the braids go?

I know firsthand how hard it is to step away from something so ingrained in our culture. I spent years believing synthetic hair was my only option for protective styling. But the more I learned, the harder it became to ignore the risks.

Let’s be clear—this isn’t about giving up braids, twists, or any of the styles we love. It’s about rethinking how we do them.

Imagine a world where protective styles actually protect. Where we don’t have to choose between beauty and health. Where long, flourishing hair is possible without the risks hidden in synthetic hair.

That world exists. It starts with making informed choices.

Are you ready to embrace healthier hair options? Your scalp, your strands, and your future self will thank you.