Toxic Extensions and Solid Alternatives

By: Angela Walker

A few weeks ago, Consumer Reports and the Environmental Working Group came out with reports about the toxicity in hair products and extensions often used by brands with products geared towards the darker hued humans. The industry was up in arms and consumers have been trying to figure out safe alternatives.

However, are the products mentioned actually dangerous and did the company leading the investigation have something to gain from putting out the report? These are questions we won't delve into for this article, but these are questions that should be considered. 

Today, we are simply going to discuss some known safe alternatives to the braiding hair that is now labeled toxic. The following brands are black-owned and their products were created with safer extension alternatives in mind, as well as scalp safe options. 

Slayyy

Slayyy, founded by Diann Valentine, has the slogan “The reimagined luxury synthetic braiding hair.” IT was founded in 2021 as an alternative to the synthetic braiding hair on the market at that time. Diann was looking to produce something better. After two years of development, Slayyy was born, and serves as an alternative to traditional synthetic hair being itch free, lightweight, softer and shinier. 

This hair is pre-stretched and is sold in singles. Currently priced at $6.99/pack at the writing of this article, it is about 3 times the cost of traditional synthetic hair which is around that same price for 3 bundles, Slayy offers 6 pack options available at $35.99.  They currently come in 11 shades and can be purchased on their website. You can also find them in many Target stores (if you're not currently boycotting Target).

As a stylist, you can also sign up to be a Certified Slayyy braidier, or fill out the form to purchase their products wholesale to either retail and/or use in your space.  

REBUNDLE

Next up is REBUNDLE, founded by Ciara Imani May. “Braid Better” is its slogan. This hair is plant-based made from banana fibers using ReGen Hair Fiber ™.  

Their ‘about us’ page states 

Rebundle is here for the eco-girl, the next-gen girlie, the cool mom of three, those with sensitive scalps, and every person in between who wears braids. 

We’re done settling for discomfort and hidden toxins. Here’s to more comfort and less waste.

This brand currently comes in 7 colors and is priced at $36 per bundle - at the time of this writing. Though this is way above market price for braiding hair, this hair is a bit different. Because the fibers used are a bit thicker, they can go further. What one bundle of traditional synthetic hair does, one bundle of REBUNDLE does more. This hair is also reusable. Yup, you read that right. After your client uses this, they can take it out carefully, wash it, dry it and reuse it. Please note it won't be the same amount of hair kept, but this hair is reusable. 

They also have a braiders program and have wholesale pricing if you'd like to buy in bulk for your clients or for retail.

If you know of any other proven safe alternatives, please let us know via email at changeishappening@textureexperts.com

The Gist:

Recent reports by Consumer Reports and the Environmental Working Group raised concerns about toxic chemicals in synthetic hair extensions, prompting consumers to seek safer alternatives. This article highlights two Black-owned brands offering non-toxic options: Slayyy, known for its itch-free, lightweight synthetic hair, and REBUNDLE, which uses plant-based banana fiber that is reusable and scalp-friendly. Both brands also offer wholesale and stylist programs for professionals.