Dangerous Chemicals Found In Popular Hair Products
A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has raised alarms about certain synthetic hair products used in braids, twists, and extensions, particularly those popular among Black women. The report, published on February 27, tested 10 commonly used products, such as Magic Fingers, Sensationnel, and Shake-N-Go, and found harmful chemicals like benzene and methylene chloride. Benzene is known to cause leukemia, and methylene chloride is linked to lung and liver cancer with prolonged exposure. In addition, nearly all the products contained lead, a toxic substance that can cause developmental issues in children and reproductive problems in adults.
The report highlights concerns about prolonged exposure to these chemicals, as protective hairstyles are often worn for extended periods, increasing the risk of health issues. Experts, including Alexa Friedman from the Environmental Working Group, stressed that there is no safe level of exposure to lead or benzene. One of the tested products contained lead levels exceeding California’s legal limits by more than 600%. Although no federal regulations exist for lead content in synthetic hair, these findings raise significant concerns for consumers, especially since these chemicals are harmful even at low levels.
Manufacturers of the products defended their safety, with Magic Fingers asserting that their products meet customer expectations for fashion and performance, and Sensationnel standing by their safety claims. However, experts caution that the presence of these harmful chemicals warrants attention. While many of the products were found to be below FDA standards for lead contamination, health professionals urge consumers to limit their exposure to these toxic substances whenever possible.
This report adds to growing concerns about the safety of beauty products marketed to Black women. The Environmental Working Group, which has tested over 4,000 personal care products targeted at Black consumers, found many to be potentially hazardous. Studies suggest that the combined exposure to multiple chemicals in daily personal care products could pose even greater health risks than exposure to a single ingredient.
Experts like Friedman argue that consumers deserve access to safe products and urge manufacturers to prioritize safety. The Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database offers consumers a tool to check the safety ratings of personal care items, underscoring the need for better regulation and transparency in the beauty industry.
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