In today's environmentally conscious world, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, but a way of life. More and more people are actively seeking out eco-friendly alternatives to everyday essentials so that they can make a positive impact here on our beautiful Planet. And when it comes to hair accessories, there's no exception. 

Here at Eco Ocean Haircare we are dedicated to producing products that are not harmful to our Oceans or Planet. And after many many years of constantly finding hair tie after hair tie out in the Oceans, on the sand, in parklands…(basically everywhere) I realised change was needed!

Enter our eco hair ties – the perfect combination of style and sustainability.

Mixing sustainability with style

Sustainability doesn't mean you have to compromise on style. 

Our eco hair ties were designed with BOTH sustainability and style in mind. You might think designing stylish hair ties out of repurposed bicycle tubes is a task for the too hard basket. Not the case. We carefully took the time we needed to create a product designed by hair lovers - for hair lovers. We have now sold over 10 000 of our hair ties Australia-wide & our revolutionary hair ties were finalists in the 2002 Clean and Conscious Awards.

Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a salon-style - our innovative and unique eco hair ties have you covered.

The Story behind our Eco Hair Ties

Being an ocean lover, it was frustrating to constantly see hair ties littered everywhere (literally…everywhere).

I realised they were a small but pervasive form of pollution that was often overlooked. As someone who spent a lot of time in the water, I wanted to create a product that aligned with my values and the need for more sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives. 

The idea really took off when I thought about how something as simple as a hair tie could be redesigned to be more environmentally conscious, reduce waste, and fit seamlessly into the surf lifestyle. It wasn’t just about making a product—it was about making a positive impact on the environment and encouraging others to be more mindful of their choices.

It was also about repurposing a valuable resource (inner bicycle tubes to be specific) - and designing a product that supports a circular economy.

Here's a fun little video showcasing the 'before & after' - from bicycle inner tubes to eco hair ties. 

From Concept to Product

Once the concept was formed - the idea of repurposing inner bicycle tubes into a stylish hair accessory, it took about 12 months from idea to the final product. 

The journey involved a lot of research and development, including finding the right sustainable materials, testing for durability, and ensuring the design was practical for everyday use. We wanted to get it right, so we took the time to refine every aspect of the product to make sure it met our sustainability standards and would truly make a difference.

The process was a mix of excitement and challenges, but seeing the final product and knowing its positive impact on the environment made it all worthwhile.

What makes our Eco Hair ties so unique & sustainable?

Our Eco Hair Ties stand out as a true game-changer in sustainable haircare, bringing together innovation, eco-consciousness, and functionality. What makes them truly special is their revolutionary design and use of upcycled bycicle inner tubes, transforming something as simple as a hair tie into a powerful statement for a greener future.

We're turning waste into a valuable and stylish accessory - more specifically we're repurposing used bicycle inner tubes, deterring them from landfill waste & turning them into a unique, one-of-a-kind product.

Not only that - we offer a take-back program, closing-the-loop on the 'throw away' mindset and inspiring Ocean & Haircare lovers to take better care of our Planet.

Benefits of switching to an eco hair ties

For those who are sustainability focussed (and I’d say you are - that’s why you’re here!), you can rest assured that when using our hair ties you’re supporting a circular economy business/product model.

What do we mean by this?

Our eco hair ties have been carefully made using upcycled bicycle inner tubes. They’re giving a second life to a useful resource that would ultimately be deemed for landfill.

Not only that, they’re designed to last way longer than your traditional hair ties and if they do eventually pass their use by date they can be returned through our take back program and turned into new materials. 

They're truly a game changer when it comes to sustainably hair accessories!

Why our eco hair ties love your beach blown hair

If you struggle with hair breakage & damaged hair (which traditional hair ties can cause...), then you need to make the switch to our eco hair ties!! We've carefully designed them for beach lovers & your beach blown hair. We've added coconut & eucalyptus oil to each hair tie so that they're soft, flexible, and non-damaging - allowing your hair to maintain its health and shine.

Plus, the absence of harsh chemicals and synthetic dyes means you can style your hair without worrying about irritation or reactions. This is especially important for those with sensitive scalps or who may have experienced issues with traditional hair accessories.

A win win for your hair & our Planet!

The environmental impact of traditional hair ties

You only have to walk down the street, or through a park to discover hair ties that have either been lost or misplaced scattered all over the place. One day alone I found about 20 hair ties while I was out and about!

When hair ties end up in our natural environment, they can pose a threat to wildlife. Marine animals, in particular, are at risk of becoming entangled in or ingesting these synthetic materials, leading to injury, illness, and even death.

Check out our Instagram account - here. where I share some scary facts about hair ties.

These traditional hair ties that are usually made from plastic and synthetic fibres, have a damaging environmental impact. The synthetic materials take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to the growing problem of plastic pollution and waste in landfills and oceans.

The production of traditional hair ties also requires the extraction and use of non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Not to mention the manufacturing process which often involves the use of harsh chemicals and dyes, which can have detrimental effects on the environment and the health of workers involved in the production.

It's time for serious change, and our Eco Hair Ties are just that! A small solution - to a big problem!

It’s not all about us! Discover other types of eco hair ties.

As the demand for eco-friendly hair accessories grows, a variety of eco-friendly hair tie options have emerged to cater to the needs of environmentally conscious consumers. Here are some of the most popular types of eco hair ties:

Organic Cotton Hair Ties: These hair ties are made from 100% organic cotton, a natural and biodegradable material. These hair ties are often soft, stretchy, and gentle on the hair.

Bamboo Hair Ties: Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that is becoming increasingly popular in the world of eco-friendly products. Bamboo hair ties are not only biodegradable but also incredibly soft and durable.

Natural Rubber Hair Ties: These hair ties are biodegradable and often have a similar stretch and hold to their synthetic counterparts, making them a great eco-friendly alternative.

Styling tips and ideas with eco hair ties

Eco hair ties offer a versatile and stylish way to accessorise your hair, allowing you to create a variety of looks while staying true to your sustainable values. Here are some styling tips and ideas to inspire your eco-friendly hairstyles:

Sleek Ponytail: Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an eco hair tie. This classic style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, and the soft, flexible material of the eco hair tie will help prevent creasing or dents in your hair.

Messy Bun: For a effortless, undone look, create a messy bun by loosely gathering your hair and wrapping it around the base, securing it with an eco hair tie. The natural stretch and give of the material will help achieve that perfectly imperfect style.

Double Buns: Embrace your inner 90s kid and rock a pair of cute double buns. Divide your hair into two sections and secure each one with an eco hair tie for a whimsical and playful hairstyle.

Braided Styles: Eco hair ties make excellent additions to braided hairstyles. Use them to hold the ends of your braids in place or to create a stylish headband braid. The soft texture of the ties won't pull or tug at your hair as you weave.

Scrunchie-Inspired Looks: Many eco hair tie brands offer scrunchie-inspired designs, allowing you to achieve the nostalgic 80s and 90s look with a sustainable twist. Wrap an eco scrunchie-style hair tie around a ponytail or bun for a touch of retro flair.

For the men - yes guys - these are for you too! Check out some guy hair styles using our eco ties here.

Frequently asked questions about eco hair ties

Q: Are these eco hair ties more expensive than traditional hair ties?

A: While eco hair ties may have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to mass-produced synthetic options, the long-term benefits often outweigh the difference. Eco hair ties are designed to be more durable and longer-lasting, making them a cost-effective investment in the long run.

Q: How do I care for my eco hair ties?

A: Caring for eco hair ties is generally simple. When not in use, store in a tin, or in a dry place and out of sunlight.  With proper care, your eco hair ties can last for years.

Q: Are eco hair ties suitable for all hair types?

A: Yes, eco hair ties are designed to work well with all hair types. For example, those with fine or fragile hair may prefer softer, more flexible options, while thicker hair may benefit from a stronger hold.

Q: Can eco hair ties be reused or recycled?

A: Yes!! We offer a take-back program. When your eco hair ties reach the end of their lifespan, you can return them where they will be recycled and given a 3rd chance in life!! Learn more about our hair ties take back program here. 

Q: Are eco hair ties suitable for activities like workouts or swimming?

A: Yes, eco hair ties can be a great choice for active lifestyles. Many are designed to be moisture-wicking and sweat-resistant, making them ideal for workouts, sports, and even swimming. Just be sure to choose a style that provides the right level of hold and flexibility for your needs.

Conclusion: Embracing sustainable style with eco hair ties

As we strive to live more sustainably, it's important to consider every aspect of our lives, including the small accessories we use daily. Our eco hair ties offer a simple yet impactful way to reduce waste, support responsible manufacturing, and embrace a more eco-conscious lifestyle – all while rocking a stylish and personalised look!

By making this simple switch, you're not only doing your part to protect the planet but also investing in the health and longevity of your hair. The soft, gentle materials and innovative designs of these accessories ensure that you can look and feel your best without compromising your values!

Be part of the sustainable movement & try our eco hair ties today & don’t forget to grab 15% off your first order.