Thomas Vailly explored possible new use for human hair for his graduation from the Design Academy in Eindhoven, NL. In investigating ideas of beauty, vanity and eternal life as well as the unrealistic approach of our culture in regard to these themes, he translated notions of death and decay into a new material.

Vailly combined human hair with glycerin and sodium sulfite, to melt the hair into a plastic-like material that also seems to resemble leather. The resuling material is biodegradable and flexible, suitable for various purposes. Although the project is realistic and sustainable economically and ecologically, social reaction will probably determine the eventual of this, let’s be honest, rather abject material.

The project is on display at Ventura Lambrate during Milan Design Week from April 17th to 22nd.