Vernon François is a British-born, Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist, educator, and brand founder. His work transcends coils, curls, waves, and straight hair with an impressive portfolio of A-list celebrities like Amandla Stenberg, Willow Smith, Lupita Nyogno, Natasha Lyonne, and Serena Williams, just to name a few. As a global consultant, he’s shared his expertise with brands like Redken and Kérastase and currently is the L’Oreal PPD and TOC Global Editorial Ambassador.
His commitment to educating and elevating natural hair is evident not only in the talent he works with on and off screen but also through his personal haircare brand. His game-changing products are vegan and cruelty-free and focus on clean beauty for curly and textured hair. We sat down to chat with him about keeping protective styles moisturized during the hotter months and refreshing hair between wash days.
How would you describe the current landscape of the natural hair category? (growing, oversaturated, more quantity than quality) and why?,
The natural hair category is experiencing a vibrant period of growth, driven by a powerful movement towards self-acceptance and the celebration of individuality. While products are abundant, the challenge lies in sifting through them to find those of true quality. The focus should be on education and products that genuinely understand and cater to naturally curly hair and Afro hair textures’ unique needs.
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You’ve worked with legendary icons like Serena Willams, Lupita Nyongo, and Willow Smith, just to name a few. What is your most memorable look that you’ve created?
Each icon I’ve had the privilege of working with brings a unique energy and vision, making every look memorable in its own right. However, creating Lupita Nyong’o’s sculptural hair look for the Met Gala was profoundly impactful, as it was a celebration of heritage, artistry, and the versatility of natural Afro Coily, kinky hair.
We’ve seen a growing number of stylists and celebrities throw their hats into the haircare space, are there any products you think don’t get enough love?
Scalp treatments often don’t get the love they deserve. A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy hair, and products that nourish and rejuvenate the scalp can significantly impact overall hair health.
Image Source: @vernonfrancois
You wear many hats as an entrepreneur, celebrity stylist, and editorial ambassador for global beauty brands. Have you always desired to be a multi-hyphenate artist in your field?
I’ve always been driven by a passion to innovate, educate, and inspire within the beauty space. My journey has naturally evolved into wearing multiple hats, as each role complements the other and allows me to make a more meaningful impact in celebrating and caring for hair.
We’re seeing more braids and protective and natural hairstyles on the red carpet and mainstream media; who has been capturing your attention this season?
The increasing visibility of braids, locs, and natural hairstyles on the red carpet is a beautiful testament to cultural pride and self-expression. Rather than pinpointing a single individual, it’s more about a collective movement toward exploring and embracing the unique personality of Afro hair textures.
This surge in appreciation and exploration has opened up a broader spectrum of inspiration across various mediums, including from public figures, enriching our understanding and celebration of natural Afro hair’s versatility.
We’re seeing an increase in people with curls, braids, and locs using refresh sprays to extend the longevity of their styles between wash days. Why are refresh sprays so important?
Refresh sprays are essential for maintaining the vitality of curls, braids, and locs between washes. Like my very own mist, hydrating water spray by Vernon Francois. They help to rehydrate, redefine, and refresh styles, keeping hair looking vibrant and healthy without the need for frequent washing, which can strip natural oils.
Vernon Francois haircare features a Curl Conditioner for rehydrating curls, locs, and braids; what inspired you to create this product?
The Curl Conditioner was born to address the unique hydration needs of curls, locs, and braids. I wanted to create a product that could deeply nourish and rejuvenate, inspired by the resilience and beauty of natural hair textures.
Image Source: @vernonfrancois
What are at-home remedies that a person can create to refresh their hair?
A simple blend of water with a few drops of essential oils like lavender or rosemary can work wonders for refreshing hair. Another quick remedy is aloe vera juice mixed with water, which helps to soothe the scalp and add moisture to the hair.
Can you give 2-3 tips for using a refreshing spray? Should it be used on the scalp or the hair itself?
When using a refreshing spray, focus primarily on the hair rather than the scalp to avoid buildup. Use it to lightly mist the hair, helping to redefine curls and refresh the style. It’s also great for adding a quick boost of hydration throughout the day, especially to the ends of the hair, which tend to dry out faster.
Are you ready to change up your refresh routine? Let us know in the comments!