30-Inch Buss Down or Fresh Braids? Dr. Raven Baxter on the Toxic Truth Behind Synthetic Hair

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Season 1 | Episode 11

We love a fresh set of braids—but at what cost? Science has spoken: synthetic hair is harming Black bodies and the planet, and Dr. Raven Baxter is here to break it all the way down. In this episode, we unravel the tangled intersection of science, culture, and sustainability to confront the hard truths: How do we divest from harmful beauty practices while honoring our history? What does it mean to take up space in both science and sustainability? And most importantly, how do we build a legacy that protects our future?

From the unsung Black scientists who fought to expose the toxic reality of synthetic hair to the deeper connections between beauty, wellness, and self-worth—this conversation is a wake-up call wrapped in love. Dr. Baxter keeps it real on why it’s time for the Black community to release what doesn’t serve us—from stress to synthetic braiding hair—and reclaim rituals that uplift both our bodies and our legacy.

With a fierce blend of science, culture, and sustainability, we’re peeling back the layers of chemical warfare hidden in our beauty routines and taking bold steps toward collective healing. It’s time to rewrite the narrative and reimagine Black culture—because our well-being is worth far more than a flawless install.

MORE ABOUT DR. RAVEN

Dr. Raven Baxter is a renowned molecular biologist and leader in science education. Popularly known as Dr. Raven the Science Maven, she is credited with progressing perceptions of science by leveraging creative outlets in music, fashion, and popular culture to translate complex science into engaging narratives. As the Executive Director of The Science Haven, she leads powerful initiatives that break barriers to participation in science. As a multi-award winning science communicator recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30, and Fortune 40 Under 40, and EBONY Power 100, and many others, Dr. Raven is celebrated for her innovation, inclusivity, and dedication to science education. 

Dr. Raven Baxter is a renowned molecular biologist and leader in science education. Popularly known as Dr. Raven the Science Maven, she is credited with progressing perceptions of science by leveraging creative outlets in music, fashion, and popular culture to translate complex science into engaging narratives. Dr. Baxter couples her advanced degrees in molecular biology and science education to aid scientists and scientific organizations in crafting effective science communication and brand strategy. As the Executive Director of The Science Haven, she leads powerful initiatives that break barriers to participation in science.

As a multi-award winning science communicator recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30, and Fortune 40 Under 40, and EBONY Power 100, and many others, Dr. Raven is celebrated for her innovation, inclusivity, and dedication to science education. Her work continues to inspire a global passion for science, truly embodying her mission to make science an exciting and inclusive discipline for all.

“The deepest understanding you could have of the world, at least the living world, is molecules and how they interact with each other to generate life processes.”

— Dr. Raven