Braids, Beauty, and a Bit of a Health Scare: What Every Black Woman Needs to Know About Synthetic Hair

Okay ladies, let’s talk. You know how it goes—soon as the sun peeks out, we’re outside like sunflowers in full bloom, with our knotless braids cascading down to our backsides -- you know the routine. Braids are giving effortless slay, protective style ready, and zero time wasted before leaving the house. What’s not to love?

As a braider and a braid-wearer (because why not do both?), I initially got into braiding because the prices were ridiculous. Who has $500 to drop every month like clockwork? Not me, and definitely not my wallet. So I picked up the comb and went to work. But honey, I did NOT expect to uncover this plot twist.

The Hidden Dangers of Synthetic Braiding Hair

Picture this: You get fresh braids, and you're cute, life is good—until it’s not. That’s exactly what happened to Ebony Chrystal Thomas, a medical student who got braids using a popular synthetic brand (yep, Kanekalon—we’re looking at you ). Almost immediately, she felt off. Her throat was irritated, she couldn’t sleep, and she couldn’t even think straight.

Sis couldn’t focus on anything because the hair had a smell that no amount of shampoo could kill. She ripped those braids out in a week and a half. A whole waste of time and edges.

But instead of moving on, she did what many of us wouldn’t—she got to researching. Turns out, synthetic hair might be packing more than just style. It could be laced with carcinogens (yes, cancer-causing chemicals), lead, and volatile organic compounds (aka VOCs—think acetone and other chemicals your hair should NOT be marinating in).

Receipts, Please: What the Science Says

Consumer Reports said, “Let’s get into it,” and tested 10 different synthetic hair brands. Spoiler alert: all of them came back with red flags.

• 100% of samples had carcinogens.

• 90% contained lead.

• And ALL of them had VOCs.

Dr. James Rogers, who led the study (and is a girl dad of two braid-loving daughters), said it best: “Unlike a wig you take off at night, braids stay in for weeks.” Translation: we are sleeping, sweating, and living in these chemicals. Not the vibe.

And the Money? Oh, the Money…

The Black hair industry hit $2.79 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $6.34 billion by 2029. You read that right. BILLIONS. And yet, no one’s checking to see if the stuff we’re putting on our scalps for weeks is even safe? Make it make sense.

Meanwhile, folks are raking in cash while we’re dealing with burning, itching, headaches, and allergic reactions. As a braider, I’ve experienced this firsthand. Sometimes I couldn’t tell if it was the product, the hair, or just my scalp being dramatic. Turns out—it wasn’t just me.

So Now What? A Few Sass-Filled Survival Tips:

If braids are your forever go-to, no judgment—just some gems:

1. Rinse that hair, sis. Soak synthetic braiding hair in vinegar and water before using it. It helps strip some of the chemical residue.

2. Go human (hair). More expensive? Yes. Safer? Also yes. And let’s be real, the swing is unmatched.

3. Ask questions. Brands need to tell us what’s in these products. Period. No more secrets.

4. Listen to your body. If your scalp is talking (or screaming), listen. Take. It. Out.

This Ain’t to Scare You—It’s a PSA With Love

Braids are iconic. They're a legacy. They’re Janet in Poetic Justice, Beyoncé in literally every era, and that random girl on TikTok who always gets her parts super straight. We’re not letting go of braids. Not now. Not ever.

But we can do better about how we care for ourselves while slaying. Our hair is our crown, but it shouldn’t come with toxins as a side dish.

Let’s keep the beauty and ditch the health risks. Because your scalp, your style, and your soul deserve better. 💅🏾✨