Since the early 2000s, concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with synthetic braiding hair, particularly regarding its chemical composition and possible carcinogenic effects. While this issue is not new, a recent study by Consumer Reports has reignited the conversation, revealing through that dangerous chemicals were found in 100% of 10 popular braiding hair brands. The study quickly went viral, causing widespread panic and fear among black women, who are often the primary consumers of these products.
However, the findings of the study have been debunked by scientists, who pointed out flaws in the methodology and underdevelopment in the research. Despite this, the underlying concern remains: whether or not lead levels are significant, synthetic braiding hair still contains carcinogens that could pose health risks. The potential for adverse effects may vary depending on an individual’s exposure to these chemicals and other factors, underscoring the importance of continued research into the safety of these products.
This controversy has opened the door to deeper investigation and a growing demand for safer, more natural alternatives. But no worries, believe it or not, there are several companies that have already been tackling this plausible issue, offering new, healthier methods of producing braiding hair. Here are 4 black owned vegan braid extension brands to support as we strive for healthier hair care solutions!
Rebundle
Rebundle Is a black owned plant-based hair extension brand, offers a biodegradable alternative to synthetic braiding hair. Their patent-pending technology repurposes discarded banana stems to create sustainable, non-toxic hair. Rebundle also have a synthetic hair recycling program. This initiative was born out of a dire need to eliminate plastic synthetic hair waste and address this undetected environmental justice issue.
Nourie Hair
Nourie is also a black owned hair extension brand that sells sustainable plant-based extensions, designed to mimic human hair. Nourie strands are as thin and strong as real human hair strands for effortless, weightless wear.
Hair Without Harm by LAB
Hair without Harm by is a black owned extension company that sells plant-based, plastic free and allergen tested vegan braiding hair. LAB designs with you in mind to give you your best look with best plant-based & non-toxic ingredients. It functions more like human hair, keeping your style cleaner for longer while protecting your scalp.
Kynd Hair
Kynd Hair is Europe’s first plant-based, itch free, biodegradable braiding hair that was created to change the hair extensions industry – braid by braid. They envision a future in which non-toxic, sustainable and fairly produced hair extensions are the norm. Dosso Beauty
Dosso Beauty
Dosso Beauty is a Black-owned hypoallergenic braiding hair and organic hair care brand curated for people who suffer with sensitive scalp and skin.
Ruka Hair
Ruka Hair is a black owned hypoallergenic and itch free braiding hair company that has a team of black scientists have developed braiding hair that is free from harmful chemicals typically used in the manufacturing process of braiding hair.
The Pros & Cons + Differences
As with anything new, there’s usually a new set of rules. Though there are many similarities with the results plant based extensions produce, there are a few things to keep in mind that may differ from traditional braid extensions.
For an in-depth comparison of two of the most popular brands, Rebundle and Nourie Hair, across the various categories listed below, check out this article "I Tried Plant-Based Vegan Hair: The Pros & Cons." In this comprehensive review, author Asia Millia Ware shares her detailed analysis of the pros, cons, and key differences in the categories below to help guide your purchasing decision.
Price
Styling Process
Length Options
Color Options
Flexibility
Fragrance
Availability
Scalp Care
Reusablility
What’s the Price of Vegan Hair?
It’s no secret that plant-based and organic products often come with a higher price tag—and vegan hair extensions are no different. If you’re making the switch to plant-powered beauty, be prepared to invest a bit more. Compared to the industry standard, like X-pression, where a bundle might cost less, the price for vegan alternatives begins at $8 more per bundle and can climb up to $30 for a pack of the highly sought-after Rebundle extensions. But the question is: Is the price worth the conscious choice?
Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for the different brands:
Rebundle: Starts at $36 per pack for 18 inches.
Nourie Hair: $15.95 per bundle.
Hair Without Harm: Starts at $30 per pack for 20 inches.
Kynd Hair: Pricing coming soon.
Dosso Hair: Starts at $13 per bundle for 16 inches.
From our findings, in comparison to X-pression,
Nourie Hair = $8 more
Ruka Hair = $10 more
Dosso Hair = $10.95
Hair Without Harm = $25 more
Rebundle= $30 more
For the average head of hair, achieving a full, braided look typically requires 3 to 4 bundles. When you factor in the shift to vegan hair extensions, this already expensive investment becomes even steeper. With today's stylist rates climbing, the cost of not just the extensions but the styling itself is a luxury many will have to weigh carefully. Vegan beauty is ideal, but it certainly doesn’t come cheap.
But the gag is: It’s Reusable
The beauty of vegan hair lies in its remarkable reusability, setting it apart from traditional braiding extensions. With many of these brands, you can reuse the hair up to two or three times, making it a smart investment. Unlike conventional extensions, which are often single-use, vegan hair allows you to save both money and resources across multiple styling sessions. This means you’re not just investing in a quality product, but also securing savings for your next two or three braiding appointments, especially when using the same hair for a consistent look. It’s both an eco-friendly and economical choice for anyone committed to long-lasting, stylish results.
Let’s make vegan hair extensions the norm, not the luxury.
Vegan extensions are a game-changer. But the price tag can make it hard for many to access these products. That’s where you come in. By choosing to support vegan hair extension brands, you're not just making a purchase; you're actively contributing to a movement that can lower prices for everyone. The more people who embrace these products, the more the industry can scale production and reduce costs. Mass production, made possible by consumer demand, helps brands negotiate better pricing with suppliers, which ultimately allows them to offer these extensions at a more affordable price. Together, we can shape an industry where beauty and ethics align. The more support the companies get, the closer we come to creating a future where our beauty and our health doesnt have to be a compromise and plant-based extensions are accessible to all. Be a part of the change—and let’s build this future together.
Prevention
To take extra precaution if you cannot afford vegan hair at the moment, adopt these habits to protect your health from potential carcinogens and harmful chemicals in synthetic hair.
Respiratory exposure: Avoid using synthetic hair near heat sources or open flames to prevent inhaling harmful fumes from chemicals like formaldehyde.
Ingestion: Keep synthetic hair out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion of harmful substances like lead.
Long-term exposure: Regularly check for product safety certifications and opt for trusted brands to minimize the risk of cumulative chemical exposure.
Cancer risk: Select synthetic hair made with natural dyes and materials that are free from carcinogenic chemicals like formaldehyde and lead.
Concluding Thoughts: Prioritizing Health and Safety with Vegan Hair Extensions
As we continue our mission to make vegan hair extensions more accessible, it’s important to remember that this isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about the safety and health of everyone who wears them. Traditional hair extensions often contain harmful chemicals and materials that can be carcinogenic, posing risks to your health over time. Vegan hair, on the other hand, provides a safer, healthier alternative, free from these dangerous substances. By supporting this movement, you’re not only making an ethical choice but also prioritizing the well-being for yourself, your family, and generations to come. The more people who choose vegan extensions, the closer we get to making these healthier options the standard in the beauty industry. Let’s work together to make safe, high-quality hair extensions available to everyone—because, your health should always come first.
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