Your Guide To Eco-Friendly & Ethical Hair Extensions
(((August 2 2021)))
The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
Wefts, Ponytails, & Clip-In Hair Extensions
Hair extensions have been around for thousands of years—even before the days of Cleopatra! As far back as 3400 BC in Egypt, wigs, pieces, and braids comprised of human hair and dyed sheep’s wool were worn.
Today, all sorts of hair extensions abound, including wefts, clip-ins, laces, and closures—many of which were designed by and for Black women. Natural Black hair often requires protective styling, keeping the ends of hair tucked and away from weather or water. And Christina Jenkins revolutionized Black haircare when she invented the weave in 1951.
Unfortunately, not all hairpieces are created equal. Many “mainstream” hair extensions are made with synthetics, such as ultra-fine strands of plastic. What’s worse, many women experience pain from synthetic hair extensions and are forced to choose between experiencing discomfort or removing these pricy pieces early.
On the other hand, while most human hair extensions are better for the environment and sensitive scalps, they’re often expensive and raise ethical concerns. As a billion-dollar industry, women have been exploited around the globe by being drastically underpaid for their hair or have had their locks forcibly removed. There have even been reports of women being robbed or assaulted for their hair.
The brands below, however, are ethically sourcing hair or synthetic hair alternatives, like plant fibers. Most feature Remy hair—hair cut or shaved straight from the scalp from willing donors, who are also given fair compensation in return. There are additional benefits to Remy hair extensions, too: All the cuticles are intact, the strands face the same direction from root to tip for sleekness, and you’ll deal with fewer knots and tangles. While costlier, these hairpieces can last for years with proper care and storage.
Whether you plan to use hair extensions for everyday wear or a special occasion, check out these responsible brands ensuring that you can look, feel, and do good.
1. Rebundle
Range | Braids, four colors
Delivers To | US
Price | $20–$30 per Braid Better
Loved by stylists and environmentalists alike, Rebundle is changing the braid game. Instead of plastic synthetic hair, this company offers plant-based (itch-free!) braids, called Braid Better, made from extracted banana fibers. Currently available in four colorways, each set is cut by hand and is fully biodegradable after use. The team also collects old plastic extensions and helps recycle them into outdoor furniture. Because they’re made in small batches and often sell out right away, you’ll want to sign up for a pre-order or follow along on social media.
2. Sitting Pretty Halo Hair
Range | Fine, medium, & thick extensions, 17 colors
Delivers To | Worldwide
Price | $164–$301 AUD
Australia-based Sitting Pretty Halo Hair gives you longer, thicker hair in less than 30 seconds—yes, seriously. That’s because there aren’t any clips, glues, or weaves to worry about. Instead, you’ll receive a halo wire to place around your head. (Don’t worry, there are video tutorials to help put them in!) The team sources only premium Remy hair with European texture, and all extensions have been ethically and sustainably sourced. Though headquartered in Australia, shipping is available to the US and Europe as well.
3. Ayune Hair
Range | Body & water waves
Delivers To | Australia, US, Canada, & New Zealand
Price | $120–$170
Ayune Hair’s goal is to “bring trust, transparency, and strands of beauty” to women. This Black-owned business in Australia offers two different kinds of body and water waves, full and free part closure. Hair is sourced from Southeast Asian women who collect their hair via brushes and combs, and the extensions are then piped to create hair textures. It’s a chemical-free process, leaving you with gorgeous natural extensions. Five percent of purchases go to support Black women-focused initiatives in Sydney.
4. Luxy Hair
Range | Clip-in wefts, ponytails, buns, bundles, 20+ colors
Delivers To | Worldwide
Price | $149–$319
If Luxy Hair sounds familiar, that’s because it’s incredibly well-known in the industry. Made entirely from Remy human hair, Luxy responsibly sources strands that have been sold or exchanged freely and fairly. All pieces are meticulously selected in-house at its Chinese factory, where all employees have safe working conditions, fair wages, and workers’ insurance. From clip-in buns and ponytails to pre-assorted bundles, you can find every kind of hair extension you need—and in dozens of colors.
5. Larin
Range | Closures, wigs, frontal, bundles, swiss lace, ponytails
Delivers To | Worldwide
Price | £50–£400
Based in the UK, Larin is a wonderful go-to for Black hair. Touting a wide range of styles (including wigs!), all hair is 100 percent certified Remy human hair from rural Vietnam. Donors are paid fairly for their tresses, and Larin’s partner factory ensures fair working conditions as they curate each donation. No matter what you choose—whether the quintessential Kim K style wig or Yaki straight closures—expect quality.
6. Eden
Range | Clip-ins, tape-ins, ponytails, Brazilian virgin hair, closures, 12+ colors
Delivers To | Worldwide
Price | $116.99–$519.99 AUD
Eden’s hair extensions have taken Australia by storm, from Melbourne to Perth, Sydney to Brisbane! And it’s easy to see why: The team ethically sources only Remy Russian and Indian hair for long-lasting, single-donor extensions. Most notably, Eden also offers samples of varying colors, so you can find the right tone without committing first. Pick individually or go for a full-on bundle, and enjoy your new Rapunzel-esque locks.
