FAQ

What is Winden?

Winden is a personal care brand creating essentials that redefine everyday living. We are on a mission to reduce plastic waste, starting with our daily routines. We are a Public Benefit Corporation and are currently partnered with 1% for the Planet and Carbonfund.org. You can learn more here.

Does Winden use plastic?

We make a conscious effort to eliminate single-use plastics from our consumer products and packaging. Our hair accessories are made fromcellulose acetate, a plant-based plastic derived from wood and cotton linters. We also utilize pre-consumer recycled cellulose acetate made from the waste created in our manufacturing partner’s facility. Our consumer packaging is made with compostable or recyclable materials and all printing is done with algae or soy ink. We currently use biodegradable GreenLine poly bags to package our wholesale orders, but are looking for a solution that eliminates use of these bags. We are also working diligently with our vendors and partners to ensure that goods sent to us are not packaged in single-use plastic bags. Any plastic and plastic film that is received in packaging from our partners is carefully recycled. Read more about the work we’re doing here.

What is Winden’s approach to sustainability?

Our approach to sustainability is about honesty, transparency, and inclusivity. We will always take the time to educate ourselves, seek out innovative solutions to our environmental shortcomings, and to prioritize business practices that protect and support the people of our planet as we work to reduce plastic waste. Read more about our mission here.

Where are your products made?

Winden barrettes, combs, and clips are manufactured by a family-owned and operated company in France. Our Moisturizing Solid Shampoo is made in the United States. We’ll have more information available on our stainless steel container when it’s ready to ship.

Is your packaging recyclable?

Yes! Winden products are shipped in 100% recycled boxes manufactured in the USA from 95% post-consumer content. Our packages are secured with recyclable kraft paper tape and recyclable newsprint. We offer optional reusable cloth pouches with most products. These pouches were designed with the hope that they will be reused rather than discarded. The pouches are sewn in the USA out of anti-tarnish fabric made in Italy. They are perfect for storing your items while traveling or keeping them safe at home.

Are your products formulated for all hair types?

We worked hard to develop formulas that cleanse well across hair types. Our Moisturizing Solid Shampoo was formulated especially with dry and curly hair types in mind. We haven’t been able to test our products out on every single hair type. We recommend trying out samples of our products to see if they work well for you.

What kinds of ingredients do you use?

We use a wide range of nourishing ingredients in our formulas and we aren’t here to demonize any ingredient that might be working for you. Our products are made with both natural and synthetic ingredients to create effective and gentle formulas. We understand that “natural” is an unregulated marketing term with broad definitions that are open to interpretation. We define natural ingredients as those produced from plant sources, like sunflower seed oil, rhassoul clay, and shea butter. We created an ingredient and materials Glossary to provide an in-depth look at every ingredient we use, from origins and benefits to safety evaluations. We see this exchange of information as a tool that will empower you to make informed decisions about our products and others you encounter in your daily life.

Do you use parabens?

Our products don’t contain parabens. While science has proven parabens to be safe for use in cosmetics, marketing-led conversations about parabens have led consumers to believe otherwise. These fear-based conversations have caused companies (like us) to formulate using alternative preservatives. We use potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate as preservatives in our products. We recommend reading this blog post on preservatives from The Eco Well, and watching this video if you’re interested in learning more about parabens and their safety.

Do your products contain sulfates?

Yes, but not the kind you think. Some of our products contain behentrimonium methosulfate which is a conditioning agent, not a cleansing agent. People often mention sulfates when they are actually referring to alkyl and alkyl ether sulfates. The most common of which are sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate. They are extremely effective cleansers but have been perceived as harsh in certain formulations. It is actually possible to produce very gentle SLS/SLES based cleansers. We’ve chosen to formulate our products without SLS/SLES, because we know some consumers choose to avoid those ingredients.

What is it like to switch to a solid shampoo?

We think you’ll really enjoy the experience of using solid shampoo. Some find that it takes a bit longer to create a lather with solid shampoo, so we recommend applying the bar directly to wet hair or to your hand to create your desired lather. From there, massage gently into hair and scalp, and rinse. Unlike some solid shampoo bars, we do not use anysaponified oils (soap). Our shampoo does not leave behind any residue or require the need for a vinegar rinse (which can occur when soap is improperly formulated). The use of soap, which can give hair and skin that “squeaky clean” feeling and has a high pH, may disrupt the skin barrier. Our products are pH balanced to best suit your hair and scalp. You’ll find that our solid products are easy to travel with, take up less space in your shower, and last longer than their bottled counterparts. The best part? No plastic and no added water.

How should I store my Solid Shampoo?

If you are using our container, simply put on the cap and store in your shower alongside your other body and hair care products. If you are using the Solid Shampoo without the container, we recommend storing it away from direct water and in a space that can easily drain to help extend the life of the product.

When will my order arrive?

All orders are shipped using USPS. Orders ship within 1-3 business days from the date of purchase and take about 3-6 business days to arrive. Once your order has shipped, you will receive a tracking number that will provide the most accurate timeline and up to date information.

What is your return policy?

We’re sorry you didn’t love your Winden product. All products are eligible for a return (even if used) within 30 days of receiving your order. Send an email to info@winden.world with your order number and the item(s) you’d like to return. Our team will provide you with a free return shipping label. You will be refunded to your original form of payment. Please note that original shipping charges are not refundable.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We ship internationally using Global Post Standard International Shipping. It may take up to two weeks to receive international orders. You also can find select Winden products through our retail partners.

How much is shipping?

Domestic shipping is free for all orders over $40. For orders under $40, we charge a flat fee of $5. International shipping is free for orders over $100. For orders under $100, we charge a flat fee of $18.

Are older styles still available for purchase?

We still have some stock of our older styles. Send us a note at info@winden.world and let us know what you're looking for.