A woman has undertaken an unconventional project, collecting and documenting her shed hair over the past five years. Ashley, known on TikTok as @reallyrapunzel, has transformed what many might consider waste into a growing collection, all with the intent of creating a wig.
Since 2020, Ashley has diligently saved every strand of hair lost during her showers. Rather than disposing of it, she has meticulously added each new clump to a large gathering of hair that has now become substantial enough to braid. In her latest video, which has garnered over 2.6 million views, she shares the momentous milestone: “Guysss it’s officially been 5 years?!”
In her TikTok clip, Ashley demonstrates the process. She collects hair lost during her shower, presses it onto the existing pile, and applies styling product to smooth it out. The completed collection is not only impressive in size but showcases a remarkable journey of commitment and creativity.
Understanding Hair Loss and Its Implications
The average person sheds between 50 and 100 hairs daily, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. This rate can increase due to factors like stress, hormonal changes after childbirth, or excessive brushing. Over five years, assuming Ashley loses approximately 75 hairs a day, she could have accumulated more than 136,000 hairs—enough to create an eye-catching braid.
The reaction from viewers on TikTok has been a mix of fascination and humor. Comments range from curiosity about Ashley’s own hair health to amazement at the volume she has gathered. One user quipped, “Are you bald now?” while another expressed surprise at the transformation, stating, “Nah, because why does that look better than my hair?”
Some followers reflected on their own experiences with Ashley’s journey, with one commenter noting, “I remember day one popping up on my fyp. How did we get here?” This shared history has created a unique bond between Ashley and her audience as they witness her ongoing project.
The Cultural Impact of Hair and Identity
Ashley’s journey resonates with broader themes surrounding hair and personal identity. For many, hair holds significant cultural and emotional value, serving as a form of self-expression. By documenting her collection, Ashley invites viewers to engage with their own relationships with hair, whether it be through shedding or styling.
This project has sparked discussions about hair loss and its implications, encouraging individuals to share their stories related to hair and appearance. As Ashley continues to braid her collection, she not only showcases her creativity but also fosters a community dialogue around hair, beauty, and identity.
Through her unique project, Ashley has transformed what could easily be dismissed into an engaging narrative that captivates and inspires. Her five-year commitment is a testament to the power of personal expression and creativity in the digital age.
