How Rebundle is Redefining Braiding Hair for Black Women: A Safer, Plant-Based Alternative to Toxic Synthetic Extensions
Sis, you know the struggle—your fresh set of sleek, neat braids looks amazing... but that itchy scalp? Pure chaos.
You're not imagining things. That scalp irritation is real—and it’s more than just a side effect of "tight braiding."
What many of us don’t know is that the synthetic braiding hair we’ve been using for years is made with plastic-based materials and toxic chemicals that can lead to serious health risks. In fact, most synthetic extensions contain polyvinyl chloride (PVC)—a known carcinogen linked to breast, liver, and brain cancers.
It’s time for a healthier alternative. And thanks to Ciara Imani May, founder of Rebundle, we finally have one.
What’s Really in Your Synthetic Braiding Hair?
Let’s break it down:
Traditional synthetic hair extensions are made from acrylic, nylon, polyester, and PVC—materials derived from petrochemicals. They’re processed with chemical dyes and heat treatments to mimic the texture, color, and versatility of human hair. But these toxic ingredients don’t just irritate your scalp—they can cause:
Alopecia and hair thinning
Scalp dermatitis and rashes
Increased risk of hormone disruption and cancer
And get this: studies show women who use permanent or semi-permanent hair dyes have an 18%–40% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-users. Many of these same dyes are used in synthetic braiding hair.
Rebundle: The First Plant-Based Braiding Hair Brand in the U.S.
Enter Rebundle, the first Black woman-owned company in the U.S. to create plant-based, biodegradable braiding hair. And it’s made from—wait for it—banana tree fiber. Yes, you read that right.
Founder Ciara Imani May launched Rebundle in 2020 after experiencing scalp inflammation from synthetic hair. Her solution? A product that’s:
Free of PVC, phthalates, animal by-products, and toxic dyes
Colored with non-toxic, plant-based dyes
Pre-washed with organic shampoo, conditioner, and protein treatments
Moisturized with grapeseed oil
Compostable after use (goodbye landfill waste)
Beauty Meets Sustainability: Recycle Your Hair
Not only is Rebundle healthier for your body—it’s better for the planet. After you’re done slaying your style, you can ship your used braiding hair back to Rebundle. The synthetic hair is recycled into outdoor furniture and gardening tools through their innovative take-back program.
It’s the first of its kind in the hair industry.
Ciara Imani May
Backed by Science & Purpose
Before launching, Ciara used $136,000 in grant funding to develop the product and run lab tests on leading synthetic hair brands. What she found? Harmful chemicals linked to serious illnesses and medical complications.
Her company is rooted in science, sustainability, and self-love. Rebundle isn’t just a business—it’s a wellness movement for Black women who want to protect their scalps and their communities.
Why You Should Switch to Plant-Based Braiding Hair
1 in 3 women experiences scalp irritation from plastic synthetic hair
Rebundle reduces prep time for stylists (no more boiling extensions!)
The material is soft, lightweight, and itch-free
Supports eco-conscious farming and Black entrepreneurship
Rebundle is revolutionizing the natural hair industry by prioritizing health, heritage, and harmony with the Earth. Their tagline, “Braid better hair,” is more than marketing—it’s a call to action for us to demand more from the beauty industry.
As Black women, we deserve products that honor our health, our roots, and our future. Rebundle makes that possible.
