Dangerous Chemicals Found in Popular Hair Extensions

New study reveals dozens of hazardous substances in hair extension products, raising health concerns.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A new study by the Silent Spring Institute has found that nearly all hair extension products tested contained chemicals linked to serious health risks, including cancer, hormone disruption, developmental problems, birth defects and immune system effects. The research examined 43 popular hair extension products and detected over 900 chemical signatures, identifying 169 individual chemicals spanning nine known structural classes. Many of the identified chemicals appear on major hazard lists, with 48 associated with serious health concerns.

Why it matters

The findings add to growing concern about the largely unregulated beauty products industry, which disproportionately affects Black women who are more likely to use hair extensions. Researchers note that this disparity in use means potential health risks fall unevenly on one part of the population, highlighting the need for stronger oversight and regulation to protect consumer health.

The details

The study, led by Dr. Elissia Franklin, used non-targeted analysis to screen for a wide range of chemicals in hair extension samples, including synthetic extensions made from plastic polymers and bio-based extensions made from materials like human hair, banana fiber or silk. Despite some products being marketed as 'flame retardant', 'water resistant', 'heat resistant' or 'non-toxic', researchers found hazardous chemicals in nearly all the products tested. The analysis revealed dozens of substances associated with serious health risks, including flame retardants, phthalates, pesticides, styrene, tetrachloroethane and organotins.

  • The study was published on February 13, 2026.

The players

Silent Spring Institute

A Massachusetts-based organization that researches cancer prevention.

Dr. Elissia Franklin

The lead researcher who examined 43 popular hair extension products.

Dr. Hazal Jafari

A board-certified dermatology specialist with over 20 years of experience in clinical and aesthetic dermatology.

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What they’re saying

“These findings make clear that stronger oversight is urgently needed to protect consumers and push companies to invest in making safer products. This is an industry that has long overlooked the health of Black women, who should not have to choose between cultural expression, convenience, and their health.”

— Dr. Elissia Franklin, Lead Researcher (Newsweek)

“In dermatology we have long known that hair products, dyes, relaxers and adhesives in extensions can cause irritation, allergic contact dermatitis often on the scalp, behind the ears and around the hairline. What is new here is the extent of the testing and the number of chemical compounds detected.”

— Dr. Hazal Jafari, Board-Certified Dermatology Specialist (Newsweek)

What’s next

New York recently introduced legislation that requires manufacturers of synthetic braids and hair extensions to disclose all ingredients used, and a similar bill banning harmful chemicals from synthetic hair products is advancing through the legislature in New Jersey.

The takeaway

This study highlights the urgent need for stronger regulation and oversight of the beauty products industry, particularly when it comes to hair extensions that disproportionately impact the health of Black women. Consumers should be wary of products containing unknown or potentially hazardous chemicals and look for more transparent and safer alternatives.