The Journey of Remy Hair From Temples to Tresses
The global hair extensions market is booming, projected to reach USD 4.77 billion by 2032, with human hair extensions, particularly Remy hair, leading the charge. In North America alone, the sector is set to grow at a CAGR of 7.68%, reflecting an increasing consumer shift towards premium, ethically sourced products. Unlike synthetic alternatives or non-Remy human hair, Remy hair is sourced, processed, and crafted with precision to maintain its integrity. We deep dived into the brand Great Lengths how the Italian born brand preserved the integrity of the hair while ethically sourcing donated locks - and how they end up polished sleek salon extensions.
The journey begins in India, where hair is donated in temples as part of a centuries-old religious ritual. Unlike the often-exploitative global hair trade, where unregulated sourcing can involve coercion or deception, temple donations are entirely voluntary. Great Lengths ensures that all sourced hair is ethically obtained, with funds from the sale reinvested into local communities. This ethical approach has contributed to their status as a B Corp, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability and fair practices.
From India, the hair is transported to Nepi, Italy, where it undergoes rigorous quality checks. The first step is sorting—ensuring all strands remain Remy-aligned, meaning the cuticles face the same direction to prevent tangling. Unlike cheaper alternatives, which often mix different hair types and require heavy chemical treatments, Remy hair retains its natural strength and shine. Each bundle is also double drawn, meaning shorter strands are removed, creating a uniform thickness from root to tip.
One of the most revolutionary aspects of Great Lengths' production is its non-aggressive depigmentation process. Instead of harsh bleaching, which can weaken the hair shaft, the brand uses an osmotic bath system—a method that gently lifts natural pigment over 20 days. This slow, controlled process prevents damage and ensures longevity. Following depigmentation, the hair is coloured using a technique inspired by cashmere dyeing, which ensures even saturation and a natural finish. With a palette of over 90 shades, stylists can achieve any look without compromising hair integrity.
Once coloured and blended, the hair is prepared for salon application. Great Lengths offers two primary extension types:
GL Pre-Bonded – Fitted with a keratin-based bond that mimics the molecular structure of human hair. These extensions expand and contract with temperature changes, ensuring durability and a seamless finish.
GL Tapes – A quicker alternative, using medical-grade adhesive to attach extensions with minimal strain on natural hair.
Both systems are meticulously designed to be lightweight, discreet, and long-lasting—qualities that have made Great Lengths the preferred choice among leading stylists worldwide.
Sustainability in the beauty industry is often more performative than practical, but Great Lengths has embedded it into every aspect of production. Their Nepi facility runs on renewable energy, and their dyeing process is 95% water-efficient, using an ozone filtration system to recycle water. These efforts earned them the Best for the World 2022 recognition for environmental impact.
Beyond production, the brand also supports Little Princess Trust, encouraging clients to donate used extensions to be repurposed into wigs for children undergoing cancer treatment. This full-circle approach ensures that every strand serves a meaningful purpose beyond aesthetics.
As consumer awareness grows, so does the pressure on brands to prioritise transparency, ethics, and sustainability. The journey of Remy hair is susceptible to corruption, which is why it’s important to focus on brands that focus on craftsmanship, integrity, and innovation.
