Kynd Hair – plant-based synthetic hair
Kynd Hair GmbH
Around every second Black woman is a regular wearer of synthetic hair. Conventionally, these products are made from toxic and carcinogenic chemicals that are not recyclable, and which create many tonnes of unnecessary plastic waste every year. “Kynd Hair” is the first plant-based synthetic hair to be developed in Europe. The innovative hair fibre is made from plant material, is non-toxic, reusable and biodegradable, and is aimed specifically at the needs of Black people.
Award winner 2024 in the category »Produkt«»This project addresses an issue that is largely invisible in mainstream German society. Plant-based synthetic hair is a plastic-free and reusable alternative to current solutions that also addresses the health considerations of black people. What’s more, it is in keeping with the idea of a holistic circular economy.«
Siddharth Prakash
Three questions for Cosima Richardson, founder
How did the idea for "Kynd Hair" come about?
The idea for Kynd Hair came about because I have used synthetic hair since I was a child. For a long time however, I did not question what classic synthetic hair is actually made of. When I first looked into it, I was aghast – both about the ingredients and their environmental impact. And also about the fact that there were no alternatives. So I decided to take the matter into my own hands.
What was your personal highlight in the development process for "Kynd Hair"? Was there a low point?
A personal highlight for me was the very first pitch that I gave for the product, which took place as part of a technology competition. At the time I had another full-time job, and had only been working part-time on Kynd Hair. I was the first to give my pitch and then had to wait seven hours until all the others were finished. When the jury gave their final decision, I could hardly believe my ears: Kynd Hair had gotten all of the requested funding. This was real turning point for me.
Where do you see your project in the next five years?
In the coming years we hope to expand Kynd Hair and to replace as much plastic synthetic hair as we can.
