The dark side of synthetic braids

 

Synthetic braids, a hairstyle that was meant to enhance a woman's beauty, may actually pose health risks for women.

 

A February 2025 Consumer Report in the US has some consumers thinking twice about synthetic braids. 

 

The study revealed that 100% of synthetic braids tested contained harmful chemicals like carcinogens, lead and other volatile organic compounds, including acetone. 

 

Carcinogens are cancer causing substances.

 

Jamaican trichologist Althea Gooden said the toxins released from synthetic braids have far-reaching consequences as they affect clients and hairstylists exposed through inhalation. 

 

She explained that the toxins are released when hot water is applied, causing them to be emitted into the air.

 

"My concern before all of this is women coming in to see us in the clinic and have no hairline or they have irritation of the scalp. But there is always [the question], where is this coming from? And then when you go deeper in examining and you will see stuff like folliculitis or irritation on the scalp, you will hear, 'I was wearing braids for either six months or eight months back to back,'" said Ms. Gooden. 

 

Meanwhile, consultant dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Romario Thomas warned that with prolonged use, the product can affect the skin and scalp.

 

Dr. Thomas said there are both short-term and long-term consequences.

 

"Yeah, you put on a braid today, you look good today, but couple months down the line you are suffering from chronic dermatitis, flaking of all the scalp; you can no longer use those hairstyles and eventually, long-term, you start to suffer from scarring alopecia. What scarring alopecia means is that it is very, very hard to get that hair back. It is now scars," he cautioned.

 

But there are steps one can take to lessen overall exposure.

 

The experts warn against prolonged wearing of the braids and reinstalling a new set of braids immediately after removal. They say customers should read product labels carefully as there could be important information on ingredients that could cause allergic or other adverse reactions. Additionally, one can soak or rinse synthetic hair before braiding, or opt for hair made from natural fibres.