A new study has raised serious concerns about hair extensions, widely used to make hair appear thicker, longer, and more glamorous.
Researchers have found that many popular products contain harmful chemicals, some of which have been linked to cancer, prompting health experts to issue urgent warnings for consumers.
Hair extensions are a major part of the global fashion and beauty industry, with celebrities such as Australian model Elle Macpherson, Ivanka Trump, and singer Taylor Swift among those who have used them. These products are often seen as an instant solution for fuller, more attractive hair.
However, scientists at the Silent Spring Institute in Massachusetts recently analyzed 43 popular hair extension products sold online. Their tests revealed dozens of toxic substances, including flame retardants, phthalates, pesticides, styrene, tetrachloroethane, and organotins.
Previous studies have linked these chemicals to cancer, hormonal disruptions, developmental problems in children, and weakened immune systems.
Lead researcher Dr. Alicia Franklin noted that most companies do not fully disclose the chemicals used in their products, leaving consumers unaware of potential long-term health risks. She explained that these fibers are applied directly near the scalp and neck, and when styled with heat, chemicals can release into the air and be inhaled by the user.
Various types of hair extensions, including clip-ins, tape-ins, wefts, and micro-links, are particularly popular in the UK and US and have become a staple in the beauty industry. Experts advise consumers to exercise caution when choosing hair extensions and, where possible, opt for chemical-free or certified safe alternatives.
