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Summary
Dr. Ifenyiwa Aniebo, a molecular biology expert, has raised concerns about the health risks of synthetic hair commonly used in African communities, citing toxic chemicals and urging further research on its long-term effects.
Dr. Ifenyiwa Aniebo, an Associate Professor of Molecular Biology and Genomics, took to X to discuss the potential dangers associated with synthetic hair commonly used for braids and weaves in African communities. The post gained significant engagement of 160,000 views, 1,000 likes, 760 reposts, and 37 comments.
In her post, Dr. Ifenyiwa expressed growing concerns over the safety of synthetic hair, writing:
“I am no longer confident in the use of synthetic hair for braids and weaves, and here’s why:
Kanekalon, a widely used modacrylic fiber in synthetic hair extensions, contains acrylonitrile and vinyl chloride—both toxic to humans. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies acrylonitrile as a probable human carcinogen, while the National Cancer Institute associates vinyl chloride with leukemia, lymphoma, and rare cancers of the liver, brain, and lungs.”
She further highlighted research findings indicating that heating synthetic hair releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These VOCs include harmful chemicals such as: Benzene, Acetone, Chloromethane.
Dr. Ifenyiwa also pointed out that synthetic extensions often contain flame-retardant fibers. She cited a January 2022 decision by New York State to ban flame retardants due to their links to cancer and reproductive toxicity.
In Nigeria, research on ten popular synthetic hair brands revealed varying levels of heavy metals and chemical substances. While no mercury was found, the findings suggested the products could pose risks to users, potentially causing harm and inducing toxicity.
Dr. Aniebo emphasised the need for additional studies to fully understand the long-term effects of these chemicals, stating:
“While consumers implicitly believe the products they purchase are safe. However, exposure to harmful ingredients in synthetic braids is likely creating an underrecognized and unaddressed public health issue for African communities.”
Dr. Ifenyiwa Aniebo is a renowned scientist with an impressive academic and professional background. She holds multiple degrees, including a Bachelor’s in Genetics and Microbiology from Queen Mary University, London; a Master’s in Applied Biomolecular Technology from the University of Nottingham; a Master’s of Research and Master’s of Public Health from Oxford University; and a Doctorate from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Her postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health focused on international health. Most recently, she received the prestigious Calestous Juma Science Fellowship from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for her contributions to African science.
Dr. Ifenyiwa Aniebo has worked with international research organizations across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Currently a Scientist at ACEGID (African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases), she has significantly advanced malaria research, securing major grants, including one from the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), where she is a key collaborator.
