Black women all across the world have an important beauty culture, which is braiding. Hair extensions made of human hair or synthetic hair are mostly used in braiding. Kanekalon hair was quite popular for its versatility and affordability.
However, recent researchers found out that Kanekalon hair can be dangerous to health. They pointed out the reasons:
- Carcinogen Materials
- Skin irritations
- Flame-retardant fibers
In today’s article, we’re going to describe the topic, “Is Kanekalon Hair Dangerous?” We’ll also discuss the components and alternative options. Therefore, let’s get started!
What is Kanekalon Hair?
Kanekalon hair is a synthetic hair type that’s used for hair braiding or other extensions. The Japanese Kaneka Corporation, which has developed various beauty technologies over the years, produced it in 1957. Synthetic hair is made from quality materials that mimic the look of natural hair and make it feel softer. The hair is used for versatile hairstyles as it’s lightweight, heat-resistant, and also affordable!
Components of Kanekalon Hair
[Video Credit: @NowIamHappy]
The Kanekalon hair has quite a complex composition, which makes it unique. Here are the components used in the hair:
1. Modacrylic fiber
It’s the main ingredient used in Kanekalon hair to give it a soft, lightweight and natural-looking appearance. For this material, it also feels comfortable to wear.
2. Polyvinyl Chloride
It adds durability and elasticity to the synthetic hair extension, making it durable and maintaining longevity.
3. Flame-Retardant Fibers
It prevents the melting or dripping of hair material while using heat on different hairstyles. It reduces the danger of damaging the hairstyle.
4. Hot Water Set
Using this technology, the hair curls are set and sealed to prevent loosening. It makes maintenance easy and simple.
5. Synthetic Blending Attributes
Here, various synthetic materials are blended to achieve natural hair-like texture, balance, shine, and appearance.
6. Coloring Agents
Different dyes and pigments are used to achieve a wide range of colors and lengths. So, users can pick their choice of versatile styles and hues along with length.
Read Also: How to Style a Human Hair Wig
Is Kanekalon Hair Dangerous?
As mentioned before, Kanekalon hair is made of modacrylic fiber, which is composed of vinyl chloride and acrylonitrile. It’s proven that acrylonitrile and vinyl chloride can affect the endocrine system, such as the breast, ovaries, or thyroid. The chemicals get absorbed into the body through your skin and are highly toxic.
Acrylonitrile is a liquid used to make plastic, rubber, synthetic fiber, or fiber It’s assumed that acrylonitrile is a human carcinogen that can lead to prostate or lung cancer. It also causes skin damage along with dizziness, limb weakness, and so on!
Next, vinyl chloride is a gas that burns quickly and emits PVC to make plastic, wigs or wire. Inhaling the gas can make you sleepy and dizzy, and it can also cause cancer, lymphoma, and leukemia.
However, if we see the chemists’ and molecular biologists’ opinions, we can be clear about the debate. One renowned chemist stated that, just like when two explosive components like sodium and hydrogen are mixed, they produce H20, just like Kanekalon goes through the same process. Then he concluded that the final product of Kanekalon isn’t toxic or dangerous at all.
The molecular biologist stated that the components go through different polymerization processes. He gave an example: if you put sodium in water, it lits up, whereas chlorine is poisonous when inhaled. However, if these two are mixed, we get sodium chloride, which is our regular salt! Therefore, he also concluded that just because two components are toxic doesn’t mean that the final product is toxic too.
So, we can conclude that there’s no chemical evidence or medical evidence that Kanekalon hair is related to hazardous diseases like cancer or leads to cancer.
Potential Health Risks of Kanekalon Hair
Even though Kanekalon hair is not deadly harmful, there are some small health risks. Here are those:
1. Allergies and Sensitivities
As Kanekalon hair is synthetic and has components of different synthetic attributes, it can cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, itching, bumps or burning feelings on the scalp for some people. That’s why a skin patch test is quite a necessary step before using hair extensions.
2. Skin Reactions
Kanekalon’s hair is supposed to change every 8 weeks. If you don’t follow this routine and use it for a prolonged period without proper installation, it might cause skin irritations, especially for those who have sensitive skin. Therefore, please stick to the installation process and follow the manual guide.
3. Inhalation Risks
Installing the Kanekalon hair extensions in different hairstyles includes using heat that can release fumes from the extension. That’s why you shouldn’t forget to wear masks and have adequate ventilation in the room to minimize the inhaling risks while installing the extensions.
Recommended Care and Maintenance for Kanekalon Hair
Kanekalon hair tends to get tangled up and frizzy. That’s why, to keep the natural shine and appearance of the Kanekalon hair, it’s necessary to take some extra care and maintenance. Here we go-
1. Gentle Washing
Avoid washing them too often, as they can lose their natural shine and glamor. Also, use sulfate-free shampoos and lukewarm water while washing your hair. Then, gently pat dry your hair with a towel, and don’t rub it vigorously.
2. Avoid Heat
Don’t expose your Kanekalon hair to heat with a hair straightener, curler, or hair dryer. The reason is that Kanekalon hair is not heat-resistant. However, if you want to style your hair, please use a very low-setting heat tool and apply heat protectant first.
3. Store the Hair Properly
If you’re done wearing the extensions, keep them in a clean, dry, and cool place. Try to use an extension hanger to store the hair extensions, so they don’t get tangled up.
4. Avoid Using Chemicals
Don’t use any hair chemicals or dye on the Kanekalon hair extensions. Chemicals containing alcohol can make your hair dry, frizzy, and brittle. Also, it’ll lose its natural shine.
5. Avoid Chlorine or Saltwater
If you need to swim, use a swimming cap or shower cap. Saltwater or chlorine water can make your hair frizzy and lose its shine.
User Experience
Now, if we do some reality-checking and ask for testimony from the world, it’s mostly positive. The users emphasized the softness, versatility, lightweight, and natural appearance of the hair. Some key aspects they often mention-
- Softness: Kanekalon hair is gentle on the skin and soft to the touch, which makes it easy to braid.
- Hot Water Technology: This technology sets the curl and prevents it from getting loose, which makes it easier to achieve different hair styles.
- Flame Retardant: The hair has a flame-retardant feature that prevents melting and dripping. It’s safe and durable to use.
On the flip side, some users also complained about their mild itching or discomfort. For them, a skin patch test is recommended, and please stick to the maintenance and hygiene care. Additionally, you can also read about how to get Titan hair.
Alternative Hair Extensions
If you’re still unsure about using Kanekalon hair, worry not. There are lots of alternative options you can have as your preference. Such as-
1. Human Hair Extensions
Although it’s more expensive than synthetic hair, it’s known and popular for the natural look and feel of human hair. It’s simply unparalleled and has versatility in styling.
2. Toyokalon Hair
Toyokalon hair is also synthetic, like Kanekalon hair, but it’s renowned for its soft and silky texture. Toyokalon hair is the most popular alternative to Kanekalon hair. It also mimics the natural appearance of human hair.
3. Remy Hair
Remi hair is a high-quality alternative. It comes along with hair cuticles, and for sure, it’s natural hair. The intact cuticles ensure minimal tangling and a smooth appearance.
4. Yaki Hair
Yaki hair is a type of African American hair alternative to Kanekalon hair. It’s also human hair, but processed to resemble natural, relaxed hair.
5. Marley Hair
For those who seek synthetic yet extremely natural hair, Marley’s hair is the one for them. It’s wonderfully textured for twist-outs and braid-outs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Now we’ll show you some common queries related to the topic: Is Kanekalon hair dangerous?
What is the safest synthetic hair?
The safest synthetic hair on the market will be EZBRAID. It’s 100% PVC-free, safe for children, and free of acrylonitrile. No polyvinyl chloride. It’s itch-free, has no toxic ingredients, no hair dye, and is completely eco-friendly.
Is human hair better than synthetic?
Yes, absolutely. However, the price range is extremely high for human hair compared to synthetic hair. Also, human hair needs much more maintenance.
How long can you wear synthetic hair?
You can wear synthetic wigs comfortably and regularly for 4-6 months. You can use it a bit longer if you don’t use it regularly. At that point, it may lose its shine.
Final Verdict
That’s all about is Kanekalon hair dangerous? At the endpoint, we can conclude that Kanekalon hair is a remarkable option for hair extensions that is safe and not hazardous.
If we consider the small health risks of synthetic skin allergies, a skin patch test is a must for them to use this hair without hesitation! We hope. Is Kanekalon hair dangerous? -Myths and realities are all clear to you now! Have a great day!
