Human Material Loop: Human Hair as a Material

Looking at human hair as a material can be puzzling, but overcoming this taboo offers many advantages. It is abundant, non-toxic, non-irritating to the skin, and hypoallergenic. It has a strength-to-weight ratio comparable to steel and can be stretched up to one and a half times its original length before breaking. Founded in 2021, Human Material Loop explores the possibilities of repurposing waste human hair to create sustainable products and promote a zero-impact economy.

The Environmental Challenge

Production is the first aspect to consider. The textile industry is the second-largest polluter after the oil industry. Textile production accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions, and the fashion industry produces 20% of the world’s wastewater. The current sourcing and manufacturing processes in the textile industry are unsustainable in the long term.

Waste is another major problem. In Europe alone, an estimated 72 million kg of human hair waste is generated annually. Waste hair accumulates in solid waste streams, clogging drainage systems. Despite being a natural filamentous biomaterial composed of approximately 80% keratin protein, human hair takes several years to decompose. The durability of keratin is a direct result of its complex molecular structure.

Redefining Waste as a Resource

To promote a sustainable economy, we must change our perception of waste—not as garbage but as a valuable raw material. According to Human Material Loop, waste human hair is lightweight, allowing it to be transported via carbon-neutral bicycles within cities. Its thermal insulation properties make it useful in construction and heavy-duty industries. Its oil-absorbing capability could revolutionize scenting spaces or even cleaning up oil spills. Additionally, shed hair contains no nuclear DNA. The hair follicle at its base contains cellular material, but once hair is cut by a barber or hairdresser, it no longer contains nuclear DNA—meaning individuals cannot be identified from it.

How Human Material Loop Works

Human Material Loop collects and processes waste human hair from beauty salons. Unlike other materials in the textile industry, human hair does not require cultivation. At its current stage, the material is spun into yarns and woven or knitted into applicable textile pieces. Ongoing research explores the physical and chemical properties of human hair and its potential applications in various industries. To find out more, visit Human Material Loop!