For many Black college students, hair forms an integral part of who they are. Braided styles have long been a part of Black culture.
College is a time of self-discovery, when young adults make important decisions about their careers, relationships, health and personal appearance. Hair can play a significant part in that journey for Black students, serving as a form of cultural expression, confidence and identity. But as students begin their adulthood, new research is raising concerns about the products they’ve long used to care for their hair.
A recent study by researchers at the Silent Spring Institute revealed potentially hazardous chemicals in products commonly used by Black consumers, including synthetic hair extensions. Researchers examined 43 synthetic hair extension products and found that 95% contained chemicals appearing on federal, state or international hazard lists…