Summary

Rebundle provides plant-based alternatives to traditional synthetic braiding hair and extensions. The company’s banana-fiber derived hair extensions are designed to provide the same look and styling of conventional hair extensions while being gentler on the scalp and better for the environment. (Source) According to some sources, one-third of women who use synthetic hair extensions deal with scalp irritation caused by the use of plastic fibers like acrylic, polyester, and PVC that contain toxins and flame retardants. Also, these plastic-based extensions are not recyclable, and end up in landfill, about 30 million pounds of plastic synthetic hair ends up in U.S. landfills every year according to some estimates. (Source) By contrast, the company creates plant-based hair extensions using agricultural waste (banana fiber). The hair extensions can be reused multiple times (often up to about three wears depending on care) and is biodegradable or compostable when done. (Source) The brand also runs a recycling program where people can mail in old plastic synthetic hair — which is then repurposed into other materials like tools or furniture — helping reduce waste. (Source)

Story

Founder Ciara Imani May experienced persistent scalp irritation and discomfort from wearing traditional synthetic braiding hair and began researching what was causing it — discovering that most synthetic extensions are made from plastics and chemicals that can irritate the skin and harm the environment. (Source) Frustrated by the lack of safer, more sustainable options and driven by her background in business and social entrepreneurship, she set out to create a plant-based alternative that would be healthier for scalps and better for the planet by experimenting with natural materials and eventually developing products made from banana fiber and other plant-derived ingredients. (Source) After months of development, tests, prototypes, and grant support (including an equity-free Arch Grant that helped the company relocate and scale), Rebundle officially launched its first product — plant-based braiding hair called BraidBetter — in January 2021.

Pic credit: Retail boss (right) and Allure (top)