Britain’s biggest hair science group is calling for hair extensions to be banned!

The Trichological Society claims that extensions damage natural hair and lead to women suffering with alopecia & bad patches.

Hair scientist, Barry Stevens believes extensions which are glued-in, sewn-in or attached with a metal ring should be banned in the UK.

"There can be quite serious consequences wearing them for a long period. They are capable of destroying hair permanently,” adds Stevens.

As the popularity of extensions grows due to celebrities such as The Saturdays frequently wearing them, it’s getting harder to control the industry.

The group is particularly worried about Salons offering cheap, poor quality extensions often fitted by hairdressers who don’t have the qualifications to attach them properly.

Stevens claims; "The quality of hair can make a big difference. Any poor quality hair will snag with brushing and combing and eventually rip your hair out."

Could this investigation spell an end to our obsession with getting full, thick tresses?

Philip Sharp, the Managing Director of Great Lengths believes regulation is the key. “We take our clients wellbeing extremely seriously and we absolutely welcome (the latest media comments) as it highlights the need for regulation in the hair extension industry.”

Sharp goes on to add that; “Great Lengths do not use any glue, metals or weaving processes to attach the hair but utilise a blend of polymers which mimics the structure of keratin so it is kind to the hair and scalp.”

With proper rules and regulations, the industry might just survive. However with celebs like Cheryl Cole bucking the trend and removing her extensions, is the love affair with long locks over?