Hazardous Chemicals Found in Popular Hair Extensions

Study reveals cancer-linked substances in majority of products tested, raising concerns about health risks

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A new study by the Silent Spring Institute has found that dozens of hazardous chemicals, including substances linked to cancer and chronic illness, are present in popular hair extension products. The analysis of 43 hair extension items purchased online and from local stores detected 169 different chemicals, with nearly all the products containing flame retardants, phthalates, pesticides, and other concerning substances. Researchers say the findings are especially troubling given the disproportionate use of hair extensions by Black women, who already face health disparities.

Why it matters

Hair extensions are a largely unregulated part of the beauty industry, with most products not required to list ingredients. This leaves consumers, particularly Black women who use these products at higher rates, in the dark about the potential health risks they may be exposing themselves to through extended use of these items directly on the scalp and neck.

The details

The Silent Spring Institute study used advanced chemical testing to analyze the 43 hair extension products, finding that many contained hazardous substances like flame retardants, phthalates, pesticides, and organotins. Some of the identified chemicals appear on California's Proposition 65 list of substances known to cause cancer or reproductive harm. Researchers say the products pose unique risks because they are worn for extended periods and can release chemicals into the air when heated or styled.

  • The Silent Spring Institute study was published on February 16, 2026.

The players

Silent Spring Institute

A nonprofit research organization focused on environmental health and justice.

Dr. Elissia Franklin

A research scientist at the Silent Spring Institute and lead author of the study.

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What they’re saying

“There are not any ingredients labels on the product, so it leaves the consumer in the dark, and people cannot make informed decisions.”

— Dr. Elissia Franklin, Research Scientist, Silent Spring Institute

“I think it starts with companies being more transparent about what they're putting in the product and allowing the consumer to make a decision. Granted, these decisions should not be on the consumer. There should be a requirement that companies are not putting these chemicals in the products that we use every day.”

— Dr. Elissia Franklin, Research Scientist, Silent Spring Institute

What’s next

Several states and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are considering measures that would regulate the safety of hair extensions.

The takeaway

This study highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation in the hair extension industry, which disproportionately impacts Black women's health. Consumers should be empowered with clear information about product ingredients, while companies should be held accountable for eliminating hazardous chemicals from these widely used beauty products.