HairOriginals, a direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand specializing in premium, ethically sourced human hair extensions and wigs, has raised $5 million in a Series A funding round. The funding was co-led by Anicut Growth Fund and 12 Flags Consumer Holdings, with additional participation from Peyush Bansal, co-founder and CEO of Lenskart. This funding follows a successful pre-Series A round in December 2023, where the company raised $2.75 million.

Plans for Expansion and Growth

The newly secured capital will be used to expand HairOriginals' on-demand "Try at Home" service to 40 cities across multiple regions. Additionally, the funds will bolster the company’s research and development (R&D) efforts and support the opening of 25 to 30 company-owned experience centers within the next year. These strategic investments are part of the company’s larger plan to increase its global footprint and bring its innovative, chemical-free hair solutions to a wider audience.

About HairOriginals and Its Innovative Products

Founded in 2019 by IIT graduate Jitendra Sharma and entrepreneur Piyush Wadhwani, HairOriginals specializes in non-surgical hair enhancement solutions that provide natural-looking volume, length, and color. The company prides itself on using 100% natural human hair, sourced ethically, to create its products. As a result, the brand has gained a strong following for its DIY, chemical-free approach, offering consumers a convenient and high-quality alternative to traditional hair treatments.

Building a Strong Global Presence

HairOriginals has already built a solid foundation by partnering with over 1,400 salons across India and North America. The company has also set up experience centers through collaborations with renowned salon chains such as Kurves Salon and Naturals. With an expanding presence in key markets, HairOriginals has become a recognizable name in the global beauty and personal care industry.

Strategic Growth and Industry Recognition

The company gained significant exposure after its appearance on the inaugural season of Shark Tank India, where it secured investments from high-profile investors, including Ashneer Grover, Peyush Bansal, and Anupam Mittal. These investments have helped propel the company’s growth, positioning it as one of the key competitors in the burgeoning market for premium hair extensions. HairOriginals is now competing with well-established brands such as Nish Hair and Euphoria, further solidifying its place in the industry.

Investor Insights and Market Potential

Rakesh Kapoor, former global CEO of Reckitt Benckiser and founder of 12 Flags Consumer Holdings, expressed his enthusiasm for the brand’s potential. "HairOriginals offers transformative solutions that boost confidence and enhance appearance," he said. Kapoor added that he was excited to support the company’s mission to position India as a global leader in human hair products.

Dhruv Kapoor, Partner at Anicut Capital, highlighted the untapped potential in the value-added human hair market in India. He pointed out that while India is the largest ethical source of human hair, the value-added market has traditionally been dominated by China. By focusing on quality and innovation, HairOriginals aims to reverse this trend, building an omni-channel brand that caters to a global market.

Founder’s Vision for Global Leadership

Jitendra Sharma, founder of HairOriginals, emphasized the company’s global ambitions. "India is the largest ethical source of human hair," he said. "By leveraging our sourcing advantage and owning the value chain, we aim to disrupt the global market with top-quality products at competitive prices."

HairOriginals’ latest funding round marks a key milestone in the company’s growth and global expansion plans. With a focus on innovation, quality, and ethical sourcing, the brand is well-positioned to disrupt the hair extensions industry and establish India as a leader in the global market. As the company continues to expand its services and product offerings, it remains committed to delivering high-quality, chemical-free solutions that meet the growing demand for non-surgical hair enhancements worldwide.