The Shocking Truth About Synthetic Hair Braids

[@MelaninArchives]

How often did you wear braids done with synthetic hair ? I wore them 90% of the time for as long as I can remember. Did you know any of this information? If the video brought you value be sure to share it with someone who you think would find value also. So what about human hair? kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5Wam6yuZrutftE

[@Rodrasroom]

Have you noticed any trends with your health before or since?

[@pjewellful2012]

Thanks for this info!

[@ambo9569]

I wish it was legally required for these manufacturers and beauticians to put a warning label on these synthetic hairs

[@MelaninArchives]

@@ambo9569 we can make it legal. We need to raise awareness. I believe the FDA would be one of the bodies that can be approached about it.

[@ivanamicimici]

One day I saw an ad on Instagram that was promoting a product,and then at the bottom there was an official California law warning that it contains carcinogens,so I guess we are not that far...

[@christineowori750]

I must say ever since i stopped using synthetic hair, and started twisting my natural hair, it has thickened and i have a great relationship with my natural hair❤

[@MelaninArchives]

@@christineowori750 💛💛💛 Amazing. Thanks for sharing

[@nicoleraheem1195]

Same. Even my edges grew in. I didn't even wear box braids. I wore crochet braids and left my edges out, but I think synthetic hair rubbing against my edges did something. It took me 8 months to grow them thick, and I kept my hair weave less for 6 months out of that time.

[@charmaineespeut4627]

OMG the same thing for me! First I thought I had thin hair but I really don't. My hair got thicker once I stopped using braiding hair. Every time I took my braids out in the past I had big handful of balls of hair shed. It happened every time until I stopped using it. Now when I take out my natural styles I barely have any shed hair

[@shakeraxdien]

Same and I don’t lose clumps of hair anymore.

[@Laura-sg6ss]

Right?!

[@alexismiller5722]

There is a woman that I discovered who created braiding hair from banana fibers and it is completely genius … the science behind this is amazing

[@MelaninArchives]

Yes. I came across her product while creating this content. I featured her 13:17 while talking about the alternatives

[@ericaadmin5195]

Yes! We as black women need to cultivate our OWN hair fibers and take back our culture & business within our own community. It will absolutely give us financial freedom.

[@heatheryearwood9199]

Black white pink or blue if I 2:30 chose to wear a nylon wig its up to me and not you.

[@MarsHoney6]

ik the brand ur speaking about however u should research it further bc… it is only partially made with banana fibers, theres loads of chemicals in it too , just read the ingredients

[@laurice8056]

@@MarsHoney6I think you’re right. The banana fibers and other natural fibers are often treated with pesticides that can also potentially cause cancer.🍌☠️

[@Rodrasroom]

Natural fibers (banana, yarn, wool) are the only way to have extensions. Otherwise, completely natural!

[@tgreer1387]

Thank you for offering some alternatives. i’ve never heard of these

[@thewordsmith5440]

They need to lower the price of banana fiber it's like 200 and the crazy thing is it's basically the waste product of plantains so it shouldn't cost that much. Plus I heard it was rough.

[@FYO7831]

Exactly I tried to do some cornrows to the back I have welts around my forehead and my neck. The itching was so intense I had to take them out the same day

[@MelaninArchives]

@Rodrasroom Yes I've seen some alternatives but I can't speak on the quality since I've never tried them.

[@MelaninArchives]

@thewordsmith5440 yes I shared a clip with one of the individuals doing the banana fibre. They're working on mechanizing to reduce cost.

[@SeekAfterGod]

I can smell the chemicals in it. The fibers themselves are toxic. Thank you for this video dear one. I stopped dying my hair and went natural. I had to adjust at first but after 6 months I’m so happy.

[@thewordsmith5440]

Same with clothing fiber they have plastic in them and seep out in our urine.

[@SeekAfterGod]

@ oh yes! I try my best to grow my own food these days everything seems to be toxic.

[@MelaninArchives]

@@SeekAfterGod thanks for sharing your experience. I'm glad that the adjustments made were able to give you joy💛💛💛

[@MelaninArchives]

@@thewordsmith5440 yooo.. I was literally thinking of that while creating this video

[@sidology1.0]

Lung cancer are common in women for this reason. Also all the hairspray, bodyspray, perfume etc

[@leeluhrabbit]

I think black women need to start spreading more awareness about all these hairstyles that they do that damage your health or natural hair, which is most of them. Last week, I tried a quick weave for the first time, not knowing that it damn near was going to cost me my real hair.

[@apriljohnson7447]

It's all over the internet. Most know but don't care

[@thewordsmith5440]

@@apriljohnson7447 If you wear polyester guess what it's plastic. Most clothes today are you are exposed to phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA).

[@Ltlmscrl]

@@leeluhrabbit It’s only logical that pulling and putting tension on your hair, not to mention going weeks without washing, isn’t healthy but you hear the same excuses all the time… it’s a way to connect to my culture, it will make my hair grow faster, it’s “protective”. No sweetie, the reason you do it is because you like how it looks.

[@melanindawn2050]

My sister has a permanent bald spot from weave she had in the 90s.

[@MelaninArchives]

@leeluhrabbit yes. I honestly didn't find out this information until recently although it is readily available on the Internet

[@CloudTribe]

Chemical straighteners are bad for us, weaves and sew ins are bad for us, even braids are bad for us. It really is only our natural hair that isn't.

[@angieang26]

I remember when I used the expression hair to get my hair braided. The next day I had to have them taken out because of the itching

[@mermaid30019]

And even with natural hair you still have to been be careful with what hair products you are using. Chemicals everywhere 😩

[@angieang26]

@@mermaid30019 I've been natural four times. My natural hair was hard and unmanageable even when wet. So I went back to relaxed hair.

[@user-bl9ey7lq4r]

Watching this while wearing synthetic hair😢

[@nataliaalcantara9595]

Nahhhh literally

[@angieang26]

Same here. I'm currently wearing crochet twists. But I soaked the twists in apple cider vinegar and rinsed with conditioner

[@angieang26]

@user-bl9ey7lq4r after watching this I thought about taking mines out. My daughter said not to.

[@bwizakevine-m4i]

Omg I feel you 😭

[@TonishaAmos]

After seeing that man melt down those chemicals then, move them around in his hand to create hair, is frightening. Like, it’s pure strands of chemicals.

[@AvisCreationsAvis]

I'm a licensed Advanced Cosmetologist with holistic training. More than 20 years ago my colleagues and I noticed the problems our clients were having who had weave or braid hairstyles using synthetic & human hair extensions. They had everything wrong that is described in this video. We were able to send some samples of various types of hair to a lab at Case Western Reserve University here in Cleveland, Ohio. The results came back with unknown bacterial infections in the hair. I stopped using weave hair immediately because it was also a risk to my health just by touching it! I commend those who have come up with some natural alternatives. I will never understand the sisters who will not let it go, and I absolutely hate it when I get to see how they have allowed the hair to destroy their natural beauty underneath, while outwardly trying to look like something they are not. Many of them would not take heed to our warnings. I greatly appreciate this video, and thank you for being brutally honest. God Bless You & much love.❤

[@MelaninArchives]

O wow. Thanks for sharing your experience as a professional in the field. I'm glad that you were able to contribute in providing clarity to your clients about what is causing the symptoms that they were experiencing. Happy that you enjoyed the video💛

[@GrowingGoodHair]

I agree!💯 This 'hair' destroys health and kills hair follicles permanently....I REFUSE to poison/contaminate myself with this nonsense🙄

[@kim_i_said6598]

A lot of women simply love all things beauty. They want to use makeup. They enjoy having different looks; different length, textures, colours Women for millennia have worn wigs & painted their faces. It won't go away & why should it What we do need to ensure is that they get to indulge & express creative beauty SAFELY!!!

[@GrowingGoodHair]

@@kim_i_said6598 yes, I agree, do it safely. If it can't be done safely, it's a no for me

[@CocaColeyy]

I didnt even think about the environmental impact- such a good point!

[@MelaninArchives]

Yeap. It's becoming a growing issue that can easily slip under the radar because of how many other pollutants we're fighting against daily...

[@kitcatmeeow571]

Not littering is one thing, but earth worship is forbidden for us Christians.

[@sherrisolomon8673]

​@kitcatmeeow571 Not worship. Just consideration for how our carelessness in poluting the environment is harming us.

[@brimontXP]

​@@kitcatmeeow571It's not earth worship to care for the environment. The Most High God says He will judge those that destroy the earth.

[@brimontXP]

​@@kitcatmeeow571You Christians get so confused over simple things. Taking care of the garden of Eden was given to Adam and Eve. He said He will destroy those who destroy the earth. Read your bible more.

[@msbuttercup2073]

Just pure wicked evilness!!! Seems like everyone hates us.

[@mutetheflute]

These companies/ corporations; have no values. They don't take issue with poisoning anyone!! People, animals, food, the eco system.... It's all about the power and money. Evil people rule this world.... Pray over everything that you put into, and onto your bodies. If you have fur babies; pray the same over them 🙏.

[@WARRIORSOFTMHYAH]

Just like Pharaoh's decree. They hate us, man.

[@brimontXP]

The Most High said the nations of people will hate us.

[@Love_wins57]

I agree. It's imperative we love and support each other. ❤

Did they force you to wear this toxic killing hair? stop the blame educate yourself and wear your natural God's given hair...everything is not racist...stop projecting...the words in your comment reflects who you are...

[@shachar777]

With all the money BW spend on hair, monies should be spent on research development, owning & building manufacturing processes instead of wasting time on on begging overseas markets to cater to their needs. Time to use dollars to build up healthy alternatives. Can any of the mega artists invest in such an endevour? Instead of promoting their own interests for others to pay exhorbitant prices just to see them. Is not hair a part of the industry.

[@nstiNctiVnatur]

🎯

[@PlainJaneMystique]

Do you think they care about us? They're using clean hair that we'll never have access too. Or maybe they don't care cause they have money for cancer treatments. Stop asking for them to help us and figure out how to help yourself. Gather a group of women that have the money to help with your idea.

[@thewordsmith5440]

The money it takes to do research is not enough to build a research center. You need a real investor like multiple millionaires and even billionaires.

[@ambo9569]

I agree, even on a small scale, this would make a huge impact

[@Laura-sg6ss]

Real!

[@fabs8496]

I will believe this because I used to wear braids but would itch like nobodies business and I couldn't understand why.

[@napvanvuegt]

the last time i got cornrows with extensions. It wouldn't stop itching. So after a half hour of that I was like 'nO' and took them out.

[@KaylaHumphries-us8jq]

Swear

[@alita6696]

I agree

[@MelaninArchives]

@@fabs8496 Yes. This has indeed been the experience of many of us. Now we know why.

[@davinehill3448]

Same!!

[@teewoods4886]

Im allergic to weave 😢 i tried..but now im rocking the bald shiny head ❤

[@DanniLoves]

OMG! I’m so happy I’ve ran into this video! I’m recently just now coming into the truth of who am I. & the covenant God has with me & my people. I used to get relaxers & wear synthetic hair, “human hair”, & the mix blends all the time. About 5 years ago, I did the chop & stop utilizing relaxers; however was still wearing weave. About 5months ago, I have loc’d my natural hair; & I absolutely love it. I’m definitely sharing this awareness video with all that I know. Thank you for sharing! The Most High is so wonderful! Shalom 🕊️

[@MelaninArchives]

That's amazing. I'm so happy that you are being led to make choices that align with a higher version of yourself..thanks for sharing your story💛 Mine was pretty similar- including the loc'ed part. I started mine about 8 months ago or so... All the best. Shalom

[@dayanahmaahzhnahyasharahla7606]

HalleluYAH

[@skysthelimitforeveryoung3437]

Shalom Sis! May Yah continue to bless you with awareness and peace 🕊️

[@MahHairChronicles]

As someone who wore braids through 4 different decades, I noticed something changed with the synthetic braiding hair somewhere in the mid 2010s. Before then, hair would thrive during the time it was braided and you could clock growth AND retention. Then, I got some long Senegalese Twists on my bra strap length hair in 2013, and and when I took the style down, I had severe breakage. I had to cut my hair up to my neck. I thought I did something wrong during my takedown. I took a break from braids and let my hair recover. It had to be a fluke. But it kept happening. Instead of retaining length, my hair was breaking all along the shaft. I eventually stopped using synthetic hair for braiding and switched to human hair. Then said eff all this, and got microlocs. Thank you for this video. The beauty industry will try to poison us no matter what we do (chemical straighteners, synthetic hair for braiding).

[@SC-dq8rl]

Thank you for your informative investigation!

[@MelaninArchives]

You're most welcome. Glad it brought you value 💛

[@sugarsmacks250]

Every time my daughter use weave no matter if she gets braids or soft locs her face breaks out. This video is needed!!!!

[@MelaninArchives]

Wow. Yes, yes yes.... It's a possible reaction to the braiding hair indeed because the stuff it contains is some nasty work....

[@wandak1889]

I wore breads one time and when I say it lasted for 3 days because my scalp started to get puss bumps. It had nothing to do with the braiding, it was an allergic reaction.

[@classytrashy8141]

Got my scare for today. Thanks for sharing

[@Editbyessence]

Me too

[@mayberryfiya3528]

I’m telling you!

[@christines1821]

Let me tell you 😂 even though I’ve stopped using the hair about 2 years ago

[@bohobabie5987]

My hair feels more smooth and healthy since I’ve stopped using it

[@1racethehumanrace946]

I thought the history of different braided styles was interesting. I learned something new.🙏🌹🌹

[@Workittoday64]

I did all of that. I did the ACV soaking the shampooing and still got scalped infections went to a dermatologist. They took scout cultures for the infection. My hair Length was to my Waze, and it came completely out then it grew back later to my shoulders came completely out again. This infection was in my scout for eight years. It was hard to kill. I finally went to cancer dermatologist that took cultures and recently went on medication again, along with topical that was a lot stronger. Now my hair is slowly coming back is still extremely short, and the hair was not looking the scout was infected like a leather glove. It was itchy felt like something was moving in the scalp stings, itchy and insane that’s what it was. I got a real good picture of it on top of my head. Still have that picture it felt like it was on top of a nerve very painful.. I will use human hair braiding, hair, my hair, ethical hair braiding for my hair to grow back out and then after that, that’s it I won’t be using none of their products I don’t trust it.

[@sacredempress4917]

This is horrible and I’m sorry you had this , must have been petrified to feel something moving under scalp. Do you know any else that went through that ? This is my first time hearing about it

[@GG-7.7wq6lb]

I had scalp scans and itchiness my sister gave me some shampoo she got from the dermatologist and it got rid of it I forgot the name of the shampoo

[@uGuguTshabalala]

At this point, what isn't killing us? 😭

[@MelaninArchives]

That's a question I truly do not know the answer for... Atleast you are aware of one area that discernment could be practiced when approaching...

[@ivanamicimici]

As someone who works in the fiber and textile industry i wanna warn everyone that the smells you notice when opening new products come not only from chemicals that treat the fabrics to often be hydrophobic,but also everything is treated with chemicals that need to repel rodents,moths and other critters that may be might be met during the storing and transportation process....

[@MelaninArchives]

Very informative. Thanks for sharing.

[@ellied618]

First video I’m seeing from this channel, but I commend you for posting and sharing valuable information for the girlies. I’ve been saying this for over a decade now. I used to get talked about so bad because I didn’t wear weaves or braids. I tried it a few times and it just felt so bad on my scalp. I grew my hair out naturally for years and started my locs 8 years ago. Trying to inform people about the dangers of perms, weaves and coloring your hair regularly was so disheartening because the response was always one of vanity and self hate. I’ll be sharing this video to all the women in my life, and the men with wives and daughters.

[@kourtney101]

Do NOT buy, use, wear that junk ever! Anything flame retardant will harm you! 😮

[@sunflowerkisses4336]

How do we support these women's natural hair businesses?

[@ReesePieces4096]

Wow I had no idea, and I have notice that sometimes my scalp would get very irritated from the hair alone after a styling. I will be discontinuing the use of synthetic hair for now on. I already don’t use human hair so it’s all natural for this gal 😊

[@MelaninArchives]

Yeah. It goes really deep. It was until researching this info that I realised the many symptoms I had after braiding my hair and the cause for the symptoms. All natural on this end too 💛

[@danaegoddess]

I've been natural since 2010 and was growing tired of doing my hair and was considering getting some knotless braids, no thank you. Glad I came across this video ❤

[@MelaninArchives]

I'm glad it reached you 💛💛💛

[@donnamareedaodubscfcca5059]

So pleased that my daughter and I wear locs 🥳

[@MelaninArchives]

One of the best routes I can think of 💛

[@ebonyessence2838]

Me too! I just joined LOC NATION ❤❤

[@MelaninArchives]

Time stamp 00:00- 00:53 Intro 00:54 - 02:57 A Brief history of Hair braiding in Africa and the diaspora & the original way braids were done (original materials used as extensions) 03:22 - 04:56 The Evolution of Hair Extensions from natural materials to Synthetic fibre- Toxic Plastic. 04:58- 05:30 The Rise of Kanekalon as a must have braiding hair because of its ability to mimic natural hair and it's versatility 05:30- 08:20 How Kinky, Curly, Coily synthetic hair may be more toxic due to heavy metals and other chemicals added to achieve said texture (scientific evidence) 08:21- 09:40 Toxic Ingredients present in synthetic hair & health implications 09:41- 11:40 How apple cider vinegar rinse may actually cause more harm than good when used on synthetic hair. 11:41- 16:10 Alternatives to Synthetic hair, Natural fibres (banana fibre etc). 16:11- 17:03 How we can make a difference- raise awareness 17:04 Is Human Hair Better?

[@lolakepi]

I am a congolese born parisian. I have stopped extensions. I wear natural hair.

[@MelaninArchives]

💛💛💛 That's what's up!

[@PHlophe]

Lola, Kitoko, we need to shit down Bondy because of this

[@MargoB115]

My first and last braids led to a terrible breakout on my neck, back, face, and forehead. My scalp turned into one big open soar that was covered with pus and then scabs. Never again!

[@MelaninArchives]

Yikes. From the comments I'm realising that alot of the symptoms seem to be immediate, which shows the direct source of the symptom vs. the more long-term implications... I'm sorry you had to experience that.

[@TrippyHippy8694]

The hair quality has definitely changed since the early 2000s...the hair smells different too. I find myself washing my hair as soon as I get it done

[@MelaninArchives]

Yes. The quality has shifted indeed. Little to no regulations is the perfect space to produce medicore.

[@mermaid30019]

Now has yarn and wool been tested? Nowadays nothing seems safe 😩

[@MelaninArchives]

That's a very good point that you raised. I saw many persons using this thing called Brazilian wool but upon further research it turns out that it's actually made from similar material as the synthetic hair(plastic)... I believe that they are companies that produce these items whose mission is to ensure that they are safe for usage but one will only truly know based on first hand experience

[@ladybird131]

I had an allergic reaction to it years ago and stopped as soon as I started. Be aware.

[@MelaninArchives]

Thanks for sharing!..

[@ebonysweetnesssweetness5153]

Just wonderful this is a fascinating video that looks at many aspects of this subject - It is So very well made. I enjoyed hearing the history and seeing the intricately creative hairstyles so beautifully braided and worn to adorn our heads. 🥰 Excellent.

[@Diamonddusted68]

First relaxers, now fake hair. Well back to yarn loc for me. Thanks for lets us know.

[@MelaninArchives]

You’re welcome 😊

[@LizzyAnderson-e4n]

Where can I purchase the yarn loc @?

[@joanflemmingkendrick1107]

I'd say it is as bad for the factory workers handling it as it is for those who wear it 😔

[@MelaninArchives]

I agree. I didn't even think about that aspect while creating the video..

[@Mrs.Cherall]

Thanks so much for sharing 💙 Excellent Video.

[@MelaninArchives]

You're most welcome. I hope that it brought you some type of value💛

[@jesseversailles264]

synthetic hair iMADNESS real , fear YAH keep HIS COMMANDMENTS AND LIVE LOVE thy self natural BEAUTY is YAH CREATOR...

[@dayanahmaahzhnahyasharahla7606]

HalleluYAH 👐🏿

[@swilli1223]

It wasn’t always like this with added chemicals

[@Love_wins57]

Yes the apple cider vinegar made my situation worse. Thank you for sharing.

[@MelaninArchives]

I'm sorry to hear.

[@try8042]

A year ago I started wearing braids at 38. My hair didn't respond well to the braids. Now I just twist my natural hair into two side twists. If I want to switch it up I wear a wig then take it off. That's usually just at work when im lazy. I keep up my weekly cleaning and let it breathe at night.

[@_Renee2]

I tried wearing braids twice and had an allergic reaction even though I cleansed the hair prior to braiding it in with my hair.

[@MelaninArchives]

Yeah. From what I found during research, the cleansing could actually cause the break down and release of even more chemicals/ heavy metals that are in the makeup of the hair. Check 09:41 I can't say with conviction that this is what happened but it is a possibility. I'm sorry you had to experience that. All we want is some cute braids and this is what we have to deal with...

[@MissJessicaHairHaven]

I told God how I would love to live at least a century in this life and the next thing I know, I felt this huge urge to to stop wearing human and synthetic wigs, not wear synthetic or human braiding hair, and limit my makeup to days I absolutely needed it. And to start making my own herbal hair products. Ain’t that wild?

[@jushere4thacomments671]

Thank you for this video. I hope it reaches over a million ppl. From someone that works in the industry, it's all chemical based and the price the hair sellers pay is 1% of what they charge yall. Smdh

[@MelaninArchives]

@@jushere4thacomments671 o wow. If the cost of production is that cheap then I can image the quality of the materials indeed.... thanks for sharing.

[@Always_Meeka]

I just took a quick weave out because I had abnormal headaches. As soon as I removed it, my headaches went away. I’m going to wear my natural hair for a while and try to figure out some nice natural styles that I can wear longterm.

[@MelaninArchives]

It's great that you were able to figure out the cause of your headaches. All the best in your journey of discovery in the natural hairstyles world 💛

[@hairdelush]

Thank God I've only gotten braids with synthetic hair about 3 times in my 50 years of life. I was raised to take care of my natural hair and my parents did not believe in relaxers. I did the same with my daughters and in their adulthood they are so grateful for how I taught them too. As far a synthetic hair, I instinctively guessed that it was not healthy due to the plastic nature as well as the friction with the hair. And I definitely am not down with putting some other human's false god sacrificed locks upon my head. With that being said, I've been waiting for something just like this! Because, I really do love to receive and create braid styles to look beautiful and cover my strands form time to time. After watching this video, I went straight to the Cheveux Organique website to ask about the hair! If I can get a hold to some of this, I can't wait to tell my daughters!

[@2grateful]

Prior to carrying our twins, I used synthetic hair twice for longer twists than my natural hair would provide (and loved it). But it WASN'T BENEFICIAL - I also never went back to it, coz I just didn't like the feel of the hair...and my scalp condition showed it too. This is truly an informative exposé towards embracing what grows out of one's follicles. All in all, it's really down to choice - exercising it also means you can't claim ignorance in light of your folly aka. stubbornness. Now 3 yrs into my locs-journey & elated in discovering the requirements of my natural hair to also enjoy the vast variety of styling it can render.

[@MelaninArchives]

Thanks for sharing your experience💛. It's truly amazing how sometimes your spirit just doesn't feel compelled to do something, and years later, it is revealed that it was instinctive ...protection... 8 months into mine, and it's truly been a liberating journey.

[@2grateful]

@@MelaninArchives You put it down eloquently... and your video just confirmed my lived-experience 🌷Thank You!

[@sugarsimmons2285]

Idk about our hair now being road maps is crazy.

[@MelaninArchives]

Yes. I heard about it as a child growing up. It was more so orally passed down more so than being taught in schools. Many countries with the history of Slavery has the same stories being told.

[@letstalktruthwithsuziann]

Instead of using vinegar to wash synthetic hair, if you have thin hair use it as a replacement for conditioner to wash your hair and it will thicken your hair.

[@MelaninArchives]

This is interesting. Thanks for sharing.

[@runwitvision47]

What kind of vinegar?

[@tianalewis5779]

Apple cider ​@@runwitvision47

[@letstalktruthwithsuziann]

@@runwitvision47 Any kind of fruit or herb vinegar will work, because it's the vinegar itself that has the effect., just dilute it a little with water. For added health benefits, use a vinegar that is good for hair, like for example rosemary. You can make this at home too, with just 3 ingredients (sugar, herb/fruit, water), there are many youtube videos online showing you how to make vinegar. Try it out one day

[@letstalktruthwithsuziann]

@MelaninArchives Thank YOU for the video, although it's been 10 years since I stopped wearing false hair, I didn't know what that hair was made of. When I saw how the hair was made, it is very obvious that it is witchcraft. The fallen angels taught humans such silly and destructive things.

[@JozelleRenia]

Well put together video!🙌🏽

[@MelaninArchives]

Thank you. Hope that it brought you value 💛

[@deihjah6644]

When purchasing synthetic hair for braiding....I look on the back of the Hair package at the bottom ....for the Black owned companies from Africa.....its important to me that my hard earned Black dollars are used to help support Black owned Hair and Hair care companies near and far

[@MelaninArchives]

I feel you on that.. are the brands you use healthier options?

[@NaturalDrAmanda]

No, they aren’t unfortunately. You can find studies from there on Google Scholar.

[@TeriaRouser-Official]

Thankyou so much for Sharing.🩷

[@MelaninArchives]

You're most welcome 💛

[@Rhule_N_Reyne]

I gave up braiding years ago because my eyes would start stinging. I would wake up with air or water bubble in my eyes. I would feel chemicals being emitted by the synthetic hairs. My trauma ended.

[@MelaninArchives]

You were very observant to correlate the symptoms you were experiencing to the hair... many persons brush it off...

[@NaturalDrAmanda]

Yep! Thanks for sharing this information with your audience. I came across the same article and referenced it in a book I’m writing. What’s most devastating about this is that this is yet another way black women suffer at the hands of others who could care less when making decisions about our health. Have you all seen the research on chemical relaxers and other personal care products marketed to women of color containing more harmful chemicals? They don’t care! Can someone please help us organize a boycott? It’d help our wallets 💵 and the planet! 🌎 Our clothes are mostly plastic too! It’s a mess!

[@MelaninArchives]

Yes yes yes! This is the reality of the world we live in. I feel compelled to believe that maybe if we were the manufacturers of products that we use, then maybe, just maybe they would be safer ... All of this information is public, it's scary that alot of us are only now finding out about it (including myself).. I've started training my algorithm better though...

[@veemack6197]

So glad many of you are catching up to this information. I have preached it for years.

[@MelaninArchives]

It's scary that this information was out there all along and it never entered into my consciousness until now. Keep speaking on it... the info will get to the right people the way it did me.💛

[@FaithDineo]

Oh my word! Thank you ❤

[@MelaninArchives]

@@FaithDineo I'm glad it brought you value 💛

[@MoneyClubTVHD]

Thanks for this video queen

[@MelaninArchives]

💛💛💛

[@AmberSumerall]

Oh my goodness! I just took my braids out after a month because it itched so bad and broke me out! I knew something wasn’t right. No ma’am I will never wear braids again!

[@sphesihleslingile6743]

I've beeeeeen tired of synthetic braids, I only tolerate them because of how unmanageable 4c hair is. As soon as I can get an allogeneic stem cell hair transplant from 4c to 3b/3c hair, I'm done with it all and my suffering is over!!!

[@twinklelove245]

Law suit it sounds like cause none of this is on the back of front of package

[@MelaninArchives]

You know how long these things take to catch on. The problem will be proving it beyond a reasonable doubt that this is what caused xyz. Hopefully we can get all these secrets exposed.

if you wear synthetic hair often you will be dead by the time the lawsuit is awarded...

[@Mariamaria-bb9mn]

⁠@@MelaninArchivesa rich person probably has to do it with a great lawyer once everyone is aware anyone of us can get the chemicals tested from a lab .. and there is already proof about each said chemical and the reaction to the human body i’m sure. especially bacteria’s. that’s why this video was very important bc people simply don’t know !

[@topneverstop]

Nothing to do with braids, but anyone out there that gets their hair blow dried and braided down with their real hair, does your scalp become itchy after just a couple of days??? Literally if my hair is left alone, it thrives but once heat touches, the itchies come😢

[@beewest5704]

I'm the opposite when I let my hair air-dry it itches like crazy after a few days but if I blow dry it is fine. Found out I had seborrheic dermatitis. Use a leave-in it might help.

[@shakeraxdien]

No but maybe try oiling your scalp more often? Maybe your scalp is sensitive and the blow dry dried out/burnt your scalp?

[@topneverstop]

@@shakeraxdien maybe. I'll try with some coconut oil since it's on the lighter side

[@shakeraxdien]

@@topneverstop actually coconut oil is heavy. You can see that because of how it solidifies when in a dry environment. I’d suggest a lighter oil like maybe Argan or tea tree

[@topneverstop]

@shakeraxdien ok thank you!

[@MAATMEDVSA]

This video was very educational thank you my sister decided to get box braids an now her hairs falling out mind u she was born with cancer in the brain took chemo never lost hair now she is 😢

[@MelaninArchives]

O wow. That's sad. I'm sorry to hear. I hope that her hair recovers and hoping for improved health... Yeah the toxins in the braids are at an all time high. And it's scary because we literally wear them weeks on end...

[@MAATMEDVSA]

@ thank you so much I noticed each time I wore it I’d itch

[@kamilahdouglas1609]

Thank you for this! I recently did knotless braids on myself with Xpression braiding hair, and I had an acne breakout and the hair was itchy on my neck. It is definitely an endocrine disruptor for my body. I want to use plant-based braiding hair. There is a study on the National Institutes of Health website of how synthetic braiding hair is carcinogenic.

[@MelaninArchives]

This is definitely a growing problem. Thanks for sharing your experience. I think that the more persons to realise it, the more the chances of bringing about real change. There are natural alternatives out there but none that I can vouch for since I haven't used any as yet.

[@Mileypit]

They created braid maps in Jamaica too. Probably most Africans in the Caribbean did

[@MelaninArchives]

Yes. It definitely something that was done among our people.

[@IvoryRajkumari]

I now want to cut my hair down as I don't wear extensions as they can cause issues and cancer. But I'm not sure what to do with my hair....

[@heavenrose1111]

I knew it! I’m allergic, severely itch and rash breakouts if it touches my skin. Smh wake up ladies 🗣️

[@MelaninArchives]

Wow. Thanks for sharing. I see many others sharing simular experiences also.

[@zabrinatheteacher]

Great upload. Thank you!

[@MelaninArchives]

Glad that it brought you value.

[@roxannemapache826]

This is unfair, how black women are constantly exposed to chemicals. Relaxers, braiding hair etc. and it exploits many of our situations, the inability to afford $30 per pack of hair so we buy chemical ridden hair for $6 a pack…

[@shirelleharris3466]

Just Subscribed. My hair used to be very thick and long and now it's thin and shedding. I'm thinking about cutting it and starting over. Any suggestions 🤔 I'd really appreciate it.🙏🙏🙏

[@JazminesOasis]

Thanks to this video alone, I am gonna be trying out a brand called Rebundle, I’ll come back and update on my Senegalese twists

[@MelaninArchives]

Good great. Would love to hear about your experience with it. I think I came across it during my research but didn't really have any solid reviews to go off of.

[@Wineanddinediva]

Its not the chemicals on my head but the hair we throw away every days is scary

[@FrizzyFro6]

Thank you for making this video and spreading awareness about the dangers of synthetic hair. I just want to caution you against making sweeping statements that all chemicals are poisons. Water, oxygen and vitamins are chemicals too. There are good chemicals and bad chemicals.

[@MelaninArchives]

I'm glad the video brought you value. Also, I'm pretty sure that the context in which I spoke about chemicals made it clear that I was referring to the toxic base materials and heavy metals.

[@Workittoday64]

There are other people I’ve heard speak of the problem, well, let me tell you it was horrific huh ain’t years of back-and-forth my hair, coming out and filling this thing come up move around in my scalp, feeling itchy with that moving stinging with that moving. I tried everything to get it out of my scalp. It was insane! I’m paying the doctors bill pharmacy medication’s and the doctor was a cancer clinic for skin after they took cultures. They knew what to do. I’m still taking medicine right now. Remember this is been eight years

[@ranagullette4069]

This is why I have locs. One of the best decisions I've made 😍.

[@MelaninArchives]

Me too 💛💛💛

[@africansister]

Itchiness been there 😢

[@mxdivah7]

Thank you so much ❤❤❤

[@MelaninArchives]

I'm glad that you found value💛

[@positivejoy-z6y]

We should start petition to hold business accountable., No other race gets subjected to this. Lawsuits should also follow Name and Shame the companies selling this hair without it being safe for consumers. Perhaps, that way we shall see change. Change starts with revolution....

[@Ltlmscrl]

Just don’t buy synthetic hair. It serves no purpose other than being a cheap way to achieve a temporary hairstyle and literally nobody on the planet needs it. The manufacturers aren’t going to change what they’re doing unless they lose money.

[@GabriellaDeLaRosa-t3d]

Tbh even the food we eat in America is so full of chemicals it can’t be sold in most western countries. Everything is toxic including cosmetics, food, even furniture that’s why places have the “Prop 65” warning on chairs, tables, couches etc…

[@DreamAboutMe823]

Ever since I stopped wearing synthetic and even human hair, I haven’t had ONE breakout on my face.

[@MelaninArchives]

Amazing! 💛 glad you were able to figure out the cause of the problem and eliminate it

[@InRealLifeBeautyForAshes]

But she has no gloves on doing that ac rinse of the hair 🥴🤔

[@MelaninArchives]

I guess she probably didn't think about it

[@laetitiac9890]

I Haven’t done my hair in years

[@rutho.6282]

What do you think about futura synthetic hair fiber? It’s made of polyester and treated with PET and chemicals to make it flame retardant.

[@kimberlyakbar4924]

Thank you

[@MelaninArchives]

💛💛

[@natassjamyers5999]

There is still acrylic wool is that any good for us?

[@christines1821]

About 2 years ago I got braids I had them done occasionally before and no issues but this one last time I noticed when I took the hair out my hair looked like I had heat damage but not having used heat. It wasn’t the braider or technique. I didn’t have any skin reactions or anything just my hair got damaged somewhat. I never looked back and won’t. I’ll do headband wigs for vacation if anything or use my own.

[@Deejerettlive]

Amazing work

[@MelaninArchives]

Thank you 💛

[@JustMe-dn9fh]

Up to this day I can't touch or wear synthetic hair or wigs. I burn and itch uncontrollably. It I keep wearing it ,it would cause my throat to itch and swell up. Every hair wig thst is human, I have to let air out for at least 8 weeks ! The chemical smells are too strong. I'm in between wigs and Natural hair . It's really best for our health to go Natural, if possible.

[@Editbyessence]

Thank you❤❤

[@MelaninArchives]

💛

[@yrehairgrowth]

I almost died from "human" hair. So glad that my body rejected it!

[@MelaninArchives]

What? Dam that's scary. I'm glad you were able to detect the cause and eliminate it!...

[@breemichellekelly3049]

The old hair in the 90s early 2000s was not that itchy I stopped wearing braids

[@angieang26]

Right when I was in my 20s I wore braid extensions and my hair grew boob length with them

[@Kenyanicole614]

It made my lips swell and felt like my scalp was being shocked… I can only use anti bacterial hair now

[@MelaninArchives]

Imagine that... Thanks for sharing. I'm glad that you found an option that works best for you.

[@PhaceTheNation]

Thankh you for this video!!!

[@lilambe]

I just switched to human as I have fine hair strands and synthetic hair not only irritated my scalp but shredded my ends. Wool/ yarn didn’t irritate me but would fuse & loc with my real hair resulting in lots of breakage. I’m intrigued by the banana fiber hair, I’d be willing to try it if it were cheaper than human & less maintenance, but I looked it up, it’s $35 a pack for 18” I can get human hair cheaper for longer lengths and be able to dye any color. Rebundle only has 8 colors and not my color

[@NaturalDrAmanda]

Yes, limited options are problematic, but it’s our health we’re risking. Is being diagnosed with cancer 10 years later worth looking “cute” with regular braided styles?

[@queenglory9352]

Did you use any academic peer rev sources for this? I’m writing an academic paper on this and all the good sources from the community arent peer reved. This was very informative though and I wanna use some of the knowledge I got from this vid.

[@NaturalDrAmanda]

While writing my next book, I recently discovered that Google Scholar will search journals in Africa. There are more published studies on this subject there it seems. Hope this helps! I’m so glad you chose this very important topic for your paper. 🤓

[@dinayansane7524]

Ty!