We have a “do no harm” policy at NOUFŌV. We source materials that not only meet the highest standards of quality, durability, and beauty, but that also “do no harm” to the environment, the animals, and the people involved in the entire supply chain. Things are still far from perfect, but we are consciously striving to do better. We are proud to say that all of our materials are petroleum-free and are 100% biodegradable.

100% Baby Alpaca Yarn

We chose to use baby alpaca for our scrunchies in place of cashmere or silk conventionally used by other luxury brands. Baby alpaca is not only incredibly soft, but it outperforms all other fibers in terms of durability, smoothness, and sustainability. 

The term “baby alpaca” does not refer to a young alpaca, but to the size of the individual alpaca fiber. Baby alpaca fiber is between 19 and 20 microns in diameter. The smaller the diameter of the fiber, the softer the fiber tends to be. To put this into perspective, a strand of human hair is between 40 and 90 microns thick. 

Alpacas survive on a low protein diet based on natural vegetation typically found on high altitude moorlands. They graze extensively rather than intensively, unlike cashmere goats. There are fewer than one Alpaca per acre, which minimizes the impact of farming on the environment and gives the grazed pasture time to regenerate. These unique living conditions creates wool that is light, soft, and naturally insulating. 

The company that supplies our yarn has certifications in RAS (Responsible Alpaca Standard), Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Peru Fair Trade, and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals). 

 Our yarn is ethically sourced from responsible alpaca farmers in Peru.

Corozo

We chose corozo for our signature tags as an alternative to plastic, metal, or horn due to being beautiful, biodegradable, and ethically sourced. 

Often referred to as “vegetable ivory”, the corozo or “tagua” is a species of palm found in Peru, Ecuador, Columbia, and Panama. The corozo nut contains a milk-like fluid which, upon drying, solidifies, and takes on the appearance of ivory.

Our tags are produced in Panama.

Organic Cotton Elastic

We chose to use organic cotton and natural rubber elastics in place of conventional petroleum-based elastics typically found in most hair accessories.

Our certified organic cotton elastics are designed by a woman-owned business in Germany and manufactured by a family-run factory in Austria.