Search Results: Desiree Johnson
Who doesn’t love beautifully braided styles? Braids have been a longstanding cultural staple that embody the strength, versatility, and beauty of natural hair. While they can be time consuming and painful at times, the end result is well worth the wait. With more and more braiding salons popping up around the country, we’re here to help you discover a braiding salon near you and learn a bit about their history and specializations. Working with a hair braider is a unique experience as they bring a vision to life or pair you with a style that you hadn’t discovered yet. Braids are great for protective styling and for traveling on the go especially in the summer season when toting around multiple hair products isn’t ideal for a getaway.
1. Ancestral Strands
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Where: Brooklyn, New York
Ancestral Braids was founded by Tamara Albertini who wanted to combine the cultural and spiritual practice of braiding to modern day hair services with her salon. Her signature “Goddess Bang Braid” is inspired by the Tigray Tribe of Ethiopia and features intricate embellished braids on the forehead. She has been featured in editorial magazines like Essence, Oprah Magazine, and worked with celebrities like Nia Franklin and Kamie Crawford.
2. Ramas Braiding Salon
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Where: Indianapolis, Indiana
Ramas is the premiere braiding salon in the Indianapolis area bringing luxurious styles to life that are inspired by the latest hair trends and celebrity looks. Ramas offers popular styles like box braids,cornrows, traditional dreadlocks, twists, updos, and more. The stylists also offer consultation services to help you discover the best style for your hair type and scalp.
3. House of Braid
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Where: Encino, California
House of Braid was founded by Tassara Azra who is an L.A. native and wanted to create a remedy for dealing with curly hair. She performs men and women’s braided styles that range from goddess braids, knotless, fulani, and more. Her work can be seen on celebrities and influencers like Aubrey O’Day, Milan Dixon, and Teyana Taylor.
4. Beauty Concepts Salon
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Where: Grand Prairie, Texas
Valerie Tonie is a licensed stylist with over 20 years of experience who incorporated her passion for healthy hair and extension techniques into her salon Beauty Concepts Salon. She specializes in African braiding techniques such as sengalese twists, havana twists, kinky twists, and additional styles with extensions. Her lead braider Dorine Massoh is also on hand to help educate clients on their braid and scalp maintenance with touch-up techniques and products.
5. Aisha Hair Braiding DC
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Where: Silver Spring, Maryland
Aisha Hair Braiding is a premiere salon that offers a variety of hair braiding and weave services to clients in the DC area. She offers a team of dedicated braiders who are trained to work with a variety of hair types at an affordable price. Her “heavenly braids” range from knotless styles, lemonade braids, braided updos, tribal braids, and loc variations.
6. Strands of Beauty
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Where: Atlanta, Georgia
Welcome to Georgia where master braider Ethena is here to bring the beauty of braided styles to her customers. As a master braider with over 100,000 hours of experience she created Strands of Beauty to create protective hairstyles that are fast, affordable, and convenient for her customers. Customers can get classic braided styles such as tree braids, crochet braids, box braids, cornrows, tape extensions, and more!
7. Nara Hair Braiding
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Where: Raleigh, North Carolina
Nara Hair Braiding is an African hair salon located in North Carolina. Customers can choose from a variety of braided options like knotless braids, feed in braids, flat twist, box braids, and stitch braids.
8. Matou’s African Braiding Salons
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Where: Camden, New Jersey
Customers can visit Matou’s African Braiding Salon in New Jersey and get a beautiful and versatile hairstyle that will last. Matou offers a variety of trendy braided hairstyles such as basket braids, goddess braids, micro braids, and more. Every customer can look forward to quality work that is quality, effortless,and beautiful.
9. African Hair Braiding By Fifi
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Location: Detroit, Michigan
African Hair Braiding by Fifi provides quality braiding services that provides education and maintenance tips to preserve the look. Fifi offers popular styles such as microbraids, cornrows, and the Brazilian cornrow twist. Customers can also look forward to an array of amazing hair extensions to add to their braided styles.
10. Friendly African Hair Braiding
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Where: Columbus, Ohio
Kadi and Aicha are the proud owners of the Friendly African Hair Braiding Salon located in the Columbus metro areas in Ohio. These ladies wanted to bring Africa’s rich cultural environment to customers combined with the best hair braiders in the city. Their braiding services range from invisible braids, micro braids, tree braids, goddess braids, in addition to custom hair styles and weaves.
11. The Braid Lounge
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Where: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Laudia Guilao Ames is the CEO of The Braid Lounge and she designed the salon to be the ultimate experience in African braiding for any customer. The Braid Lounge offers different types of braided styles such as triangle knotless braids, tree braids, goddess braids, senegalese twists, and box braids. In addition to weekly specials, novice braiders can learn braiding basics at The Braid Lounge Academy.
12. Divine Design
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Where: West Palm Beach, Florida
Divine Design Natural Hair Solutions was created to deliver high quality professional hair services using leading industry techniques and tools. Known for their signature box braids, this West Palm Beach salon has stylists that can style a variety of box braid styles with a consultation to find the best fit for you.
13. Mouna’s African Hair Braiding
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Where: Denver, Colorado
This Denver salon features professional, trendy, upscale braiding options that customers will enjoy in a “stress-free” atmosphere. The braiding styles range from tribal braids, fulani braids, faux locks, lemonade braids, and box braids. Customer service is one of the hallmarks of this salon who offers to take down old braids and to wash/dry hair before braiding.
14. Simina Afrian Hair Braiding
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Where: Boston, Massachusetts
Columba is the proud owner of Siminia which has been bringing the art of African hair braiding to Boston for over a decade. This salon offers many beautiful braided styles such as ghana braids, bob braids, invisible braids, and tree braids. Customers can also get protective styles like twists, weaves, and dreadlocks to keep their hair protected and healthy.
15. Kassia African Hair Braiding and Weaves
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Where: Birmingham, Alabama
Known as Birmingham’s “best salon”, Kassia’s African Hair Braiding uses pure human hair to create intricate styles for braids and weaves. Kassia uses expert hair braiders to provide consultations and give expert service that will have customers coming back for more. Their services range from corn rows, comb twist, and micro braids.
16. Eagle Hair Braids and Salon
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Where: Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City is bringing all the heat with over 100 styles clients can choose from whether they are inspired by the latest trend or want to get their hair done in house. They offer several braided styles like single braids, jumbo big braids, lemonade braids, micro braids, and more! Each braided style features an individual price bracket and estimated duration to help you prepare for your appointment.
17. Authentic African Hair Braiding
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Where: Bloomington, Minnesota
As one of the most distinguished salons in Minnesota, Authentic African Hair Braiding provides customers with a quick, convenient, and affordable atmosphere for their styling services. This salon features hair braiding specialists that love a challenge. Their braiding styles include triangle braids, sew-in braids, ghana braids, box braids, and more.
18. Raphine Afro Braiding and Extensions
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Where: New Orleans, Louisiana
As the hub for African, French, and American culture, New Orleans is the premiere spot to get your braided styles done. Raphine’s is stylish, trendy, and aims to give customers the highest quality service possible. They specialize in hair braiding services such as kinky twists, marley braids, french braids, two strand twists, and more!
19. Divine Braids and Beauty Supply
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Where: Providence, Rhode Island
Are you ready to get divine? Beautician and cosmetologist Sarah Reeves created Divine Braids and Beauty Supply to create beautiful braided styles that highlight the versatility of natural hair. As a full service hair braiding shop customers can use braids, dreadlocks, curly cornrows, senegalese twists, wigs.
Do you have a stand-out braiding salon in your area? Give it a shout out in the comments!
PICTURED: @makenzieandmalia
29 TikTok Curly Hair Hacks
Without the ability to head to a salon for a haircut or see our favorite stylist for a protective hair style during the pandemic, we had to get creative. TikTok proved to be a new and innovative way for curlies across the globe to start sharing their latest curly hacks, tips, tricks, and continue the conversation around natural hair care. Whether you were trying out a new hairstyle, whipping up homemade products, or simply learning the basics of curly hair care, TikTok has something for everyone. We’ve rounded up a few of the most watchable and informative curly girl TikToks to get you through every phase of curly life whether you’re looking to improve your techniques or need inspiration for a new style.
Curl Techniques on TikTok
Technique is everything when you are using your favorite curly tool to get you through your routine. We all know the highs and lows of trying to make our hair care process easier, more seamless, and with a little less hassle in our day to day lives. These TikTok’s are a compilation of small improvements and tweaks you can make that will upgrade your routine in seconds.
@lovelifecurlsofficial Was it worth it?
original sound – Alexandra Karadimas
Lovelifecurlsofficial shares the ever popular finger coiling method, which is a great way to form your curls after a wash day!
@makenzieandmalia HOW TO GET DEFINED CURLS!!
We Can’t Be Friends – Dream Koala
Learn how to define your curls using your favorite styling cream and a Denman brush, thanks to makenzieandmalia.
@anastasiaperraultt hope this helps
original sound – Jack Pesta
Anastasiaperraultt reminds us to prevent frizz by using a satin bonnet to wrap your hair at night.
@niaakilah__ How to Grow Long Natural Hair!
original sound – niaakilah__
Naturalistas with type 4 hair can check out niaakilah__’s TikTok to learn how to wrap and protect their ends for hair growth.
@thecurlycode – DJ Scheme & Danny Towers” href=”https://www.tiktok.com/music/How-You-Feel-Freestyle-6720088938456877830″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>How You Feel? (Freestyle”> – DJ Scheme & Danny Towers
thecurlycode shows us how to use a perm rod set for tight and defined curls.
Product Cocktails on TikTok
Ah there’s nothing like a good curly cocktail to bring your curls to life! Product cocktails are all about layering the right products to help your hair depending on your overall goals. No two cocktails are the same because we all have different curl types and textures. It’s rare that one product will be able to take care of all your natural hair needs, so learning how to cocktail your favorite products is a must!
@curlsbykeish MY CURLY HAIR ROUTINE!
Rags2Riches x 24 x Goosebumps – carneyval
Learn how to cocktail your products using a styling cream and gel with this step by step curl routine by curlsbykeish.
@sallybruks Thanks for folllowing #curlyhair #naturalhair #hairgrowth #curlyhairroutine #lengthcheck #sheamoisture #curlycut #haircut #fyp #hangtime
Tap In – Saweetie
The LCO (Leave-in, Cream, Oil”> method is a popular way to bring all the moisture to your curls. Sallybruks makes it easy for us to follow.
@iamjocelynsilva Curly hair don’t care #curlyhair #hairtutorial #hair #hairstyle #hairflip #curlyhairdontcare #curls #curly #latina
Elegant Instrumental Background Music – Coffee Kaffee Café
If you have longer curls then iamjocelynsilva has an excellent tutorial in sectioning and taking your time to slowly layer in the products.
@kekekurly Step by step order for dry hair
original sound – Blue Nightmare
It can be tough to decide which products are essential to use when your curls are dry. Kekekurly’s TikTok showcases a great transition of products to use when you need more moisture.
@kumarienaomi Like for part 3
Pop Smoke candy shop – EZD
If you have ever mixed products together and had a horrible result then kumarienaomi can teach you a quick way to test how well your product formulas will help or hurt your hairstyle.
Hair Cut Transformations
Is there anything more satisfying than a good haircut? Having your haircut regularly is an essential part of maintaining healthy curls. Many TikToks filmed at the salon walk us through the problem, cut, and of course amazing transformation on behalf of the stylist. These TikToks are a great way to discover curly hair salons in your area and get inspiration for your next cut. Whether you’re feeling bold about bangs or looking to try out a new style, the transformations on these TikToks are jaw dropping.
@romy_xsara Ralph Castelli
Watch romy_xsara bring these damaged ends back to life with a trim and curl defining products.
@curlpop Are you ?
original sound – CurlPop
Cutting your bangs is as simple as 1, 2, 3, with this quick tutorial by CurlPop showing us a beautiful bangs transformation.
@actuallyashly Steven Universe – L.Dre
ActuallyAshly shows us the importance of effective communication with your stylist in order to achieve the best result for your curls.
@curlsbysabrina FRANCHISE – Travis Scott
If you have long and loose curls this is a great curly transformation from CurlsBySabrina from start to finish.
@arayapendarvis I’ve been going to Joe Miguel for 4 years now, I def recommend if you’re in NYC/NJ my hair is still long, I got shorter layers
Whoopty – CJ
Layers are on the menu for this curly transformation with Aayapendarvis.
TikTok Curl Styling Tips
Style is everything whether you are headed out or looking for a casual way to showcase your curls. Curly styles are versatile, fun, and easy. With a little bit of patience and practice you can find your signature look in no time. TikTok is full of quick tips and fabulous transformations that will have you running to your bathroom with your favorite products in hand to master the latest style. Don’t forget to read the caption where most creators layout additional information for achieving their look.
@draco.dez This is cute
American Boy but Shibuya is there too – goalsounds
draco.dez shares a cute and fast way to create space buns with bangs and then lay them down with your favorite edge tamer.
@its.brinkley Highhh half up half down
Lets Link – WhoHeem
its.brinkley’s modern take on the classic half up/down hairstyle is a sleek and voluminous way to sport your curls.
@cecilialaulanne Curly hairstyle avec foulard
– Popp Hunna” href=”https://www.tiktok.com/music/Adderall-Corvette-Corvette-6884331673173969670″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Adderall (Corvette Corvette”> – Popp Hunna
Hair accessories are the bread and butter of taking a curly look from basic to upgraded. cecilialaulanne uses a headwrap as a quick and stylish way to keep her curls protected and cute!
@itslulit Reply to @megdelawit15 Here is my twist out routine!
Kontrol – Maleek Berry
One of the secrets of creating a different curl pattern or waves is rocking your hair fresh from a protective style like itslulit’s flawless twist out routine.
@carranitac original sound – fourwashington
Looking for creative ways you change classic buns and incorporate braids? Carranitac makes it look so easy.
Curly Comedy
There is nothing like the nuisances and quirks of rocking curly hair. Our community is filled with diverse textures, curl patterns, and naturalistas from all over the world who seek to support each other. TikTok not only gives us useful tips, but a much needed laugh in the world of #relatable content. Whether you’re dealing with frizzy curls, humidity, or social commentary, we can relate to the struggles and frustrations that come with our hair.
@aynsleypower molly rocks in my heathcliff – junobugs
Who else knows the struggle of having flawless curls by day that end up getting a little looser at night? Aynsleypower does.
@notsuehaila please don’t flame me
” href=”https://www.tiktok.com/music/Lemonade-Internet-Money-6865030898417502981″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Lemonade Internet Money – joy:”>
Notsuehaila reminds us that it takes time and preparation to keep our curls popping and flawless!
@1x.x.delia.x.x1 Omgg
original sound – Lily-Rose
It’s the age old discussion, to brush our curls out or not? That is the question…with hilarious results from 1x.x.delia.x.x1.
@arlene_fuerte For those of you who think I have short hair
No Idea – Don Toliver
Shrinkage is real when curls combine with water, watch arlene_fuerte’s transformation from short to long in a matter of seconds.
@brookemonk_ The amount of times I’ve seen this happen, always ask!
3 Vets – The Future Kingz
How many times do we get asked if people can touch our hair? brookemonk_ encapsulates the mood in a few short seconds.
Color Transformations
Spring is here which means more curls, more styles, and more color! As new color safe products are rolling out on the floor to help liven up our curls, we have more versatile options to color our hair at the salon and at home. These curly TikTok’s feature amazing transformations with helpful tips to keep your curls healthy and bouncing with bold pops of color.
@draco.dez Reply to @suminabhadel What colour should I do next? insta/yt: draco.dez :”>
SugarCrash! – ElyOtto
We love to see draco.dez’s healthy colored curls in color wax!
@yazminaaliyah who’s up? I just turned blonde
original sound – DJ Dee Yombo
yazminaaliyah’s transformation shows the transition from dark hair to blonde using hair wax.
@daniaviktoria definitely works but the color was not for me
– Doja Cat” href=”https://www.tiktok.com/music/Kiss-Me-More-feat-SZA-6948086714175621121″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Kiss Me More (feat. SZA”> – Doja Cat
It’s always important when you have dark hair like daniaviktoria to pick a color that is going to enhance your natural hue like red!
@romy_xsara Wassup? – Jordan Knows
We always recommend going to a stylist like romy_xsara to help you achieve healthy curls when you’re doing a big color change.
@synamintoastcrunch whole color process on my youtub (in bio”>
miley cyrus x the climb – elijah
This DIY color transformation by synamintoastcrunch is jaw dropping using a few magnetic colors.
We can’t wait to see the new curly TikToks that will emerge over the next year as more content rolls out on the platform. Let us know your favorite accounts to follow in the comments!
ILLUSTRATION BY @itshunnib
What is the CROWN Act?
The CROWN Act stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair” and is a law that prohibits race-based hair discrimination, which is the denial of employment and educational opportunities because of hair texture or protective hairstyles including braids, locs, twists or bantu knots. This historic campaign is changing the way people view hair discrimination in the workplace. The goal of the CROWN Act is to outlaw discrimination based on how people wear their natural hair in the workplace. As naturalistas we have endured decades of discrimination and shame when it comes to beauty standards, both socially and in our place of work. This discrimination has been unspoken as well as structural rules laid out in employee handbooks or school dress codes. We have seen countless examples of men, women, and children being told their hair was “too wild” or “unprofessional” because it didn’t meet the typical standard of beauty.
Since the CROWN Act was introduced and signed into law on July 3, 2019 it has expanded into a movement that creates healthy conversation around race-based hair discrimation and has been adopted by several states in the United States. Variations of this bill have been introduced in 29 states and even at the federal level.
We’re going to share the latest developments of the CROWN Act and how it will continue to impact naturalistas everywhere.
@thecrownact
Since its 2019 inception, the CROWN Act has continued to gain momentum politically and socially as more people become aware of natural hair discrimination. Whether it was Nicole Pyles being told to remove her beads from her hair in order to play softball or Deandre Arnold being told to cut his dreadlocks in order to graduate, hair discrimination is alive and well in this decade.
Who is the CROWN Coalition?
The organizations that make up this alliance are Dove, National Urban League of Color, Color of Change, and the Western Center on Law and Poverty who have done tremendous work to educate the public regarding anti-dsicrimination in the United States. Currently in the US there are no federals laws or legislation that have been put in place to protect people against race-based hair discrimination, yes we’re serious. The efforts of the CROWN Coalition have combined their resources and brand capabilities to create an inclusive and equal beauty experience Black women and girls. This groundbreaking initiative has the power to change the way beauty is determined in the workplace and schools which could protect future generations from hair discrimination.
How the CROWN Act Affects The Workplace
Whether you have seen it on the news or been on the receiving end of ugly comments, it has been historically hard for women of color to wear their hair naturally in the workplace. While the workplace has continued to diversify itself and adopt new policies for inclusion, there are still gigantic steps that need to be made in order to eradicate the longtime stigmas that corporate America has placed on Black women and grooming. If you aren’t familiar hair discrimination laws in the US, this guide is a great resource that breaks down the historical complexities of employer grooming policies codes and natural hair.
According to the 2019 Dove Research Study, this is how workplace bias affects Black women:
- 30% more likely to be made aware of a formal workplace appearance policy
- 80% more likely to change their natural hair in order to meet social standards at work.
- 50% more likely to have reported being sent home because of their hair
- 82 percent have been given grooming policies at work.
Simply put, Black women and natural hair judged differently and workplace bias can have a profound effect on their self esteem and performance. Not to mention how it affects children’s feelings in school. The CROWN Coalition seeks to break this scrutiny and discrimination by championing each state to adopt the bill and make it illegal to discriminate against anyone based on their natural hair. They have currently garnered over 260,000 signatures petitioning lawmakers to end hair discrimination in the workplace and schools. This petition in addition to support from big name beauty brands like Dove has kept it in conversation and rotation with heavy hitting legislatures, but the choice to adopt the CROWN Act is done by individual states, which has proved to be its own battle
@thecrownact
Which States Have Passed the CROWN Act?
The first state to sign the CROWN Act into law was California with Senator Holly J. Mitchell’s support of Senate Bill 188. New York was second to follow under the leadership of Assemblywoman Tremaine Wright and Senator Jamaal Bailey. This was followed by New Jersey one year after the wrestling match in which a high school wrestler’s locs were forcibly cut off.
Currently there are 13 states who have formally adopted versions of the CROWN Act as a law which makes it officially illegal to discriminate against a person because of their hair:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Washington
Tennessee is the latest state to join as people across the nation begin to request that lawmakers in their state adopt the bill. Furthermore, the CROWN Act has become las in 21 municipalities around the country, and as recently as March 2021 the federal bill H.R 2116 was introduced by U.S Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman of New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives and S.888 was introduced by Senator Cory Booker in the U.S. Senate. If you are wondering why it’s not a national law yet, it’s because it has not been passed by the Senate, which means that as of now individual states can choose to adopt or dismiss the legislation.
Depending on the state and local laws where you live, your employer’s grooming requirements may be in conflict with new regulations or regulations that are going to be passed in the near future. If you have experienced workplace discrimination based on your natural hair in one of the states that has passed the CROWN Act you can report it to your local ACLU here.
In 2020 over 20 states considered the CROWN Act, but chose not to make it a law, which means the marathon isn’t over just yet:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
What Can You Do to Support the CROWN Act?
We at NaturallyCurly are excited to support this legendary initiative to bring awareness and change to outdated beauty standards. We look forward to seeing progress and change as more states adopt this legislation. You can do your part by adding your name to the petition to help get the CROWN Act passed in more states. Their goal is to reach 500,000 signatures and they are over halfway there – we know the NaturallyCurly community can boost those numbers!
You can also send a letter to your state and local representatives using this template.
Find your state legislator here, your state U.S. state senator here, and your U.S. representative here.
Does your employer have grooming guidelines that apply to hairstyles in your place of work? Let us know in the comments below!
Jamyla Bennu is a lifelong naturalista who created Oyin Handmade in 2001 and has remained committed to producing conscious natural hair and body products to her customers with acts of self-care. As a family-owned and operated business, Jamyla has partnered with her husband Pierre to develop and formulate products that have natural, organic, and food-grade ingredients aimed at providing excellent styling and essential nutrients for textured hair. Jamyla incorporates family into each aspect of the brand whether it’s encouraging customers to tag themselves using #oyinfamily or naming the business “oyin” after discovering it as her baby brother’s naming ceremony. Over the course of the past decade Oyin Handmade has expanded to include body products, a men’s line, and lifestyle products that include accessories and books. We spoke with Jamyla to discuss her tips for reading ingredients, which products are great for retaining moisture, and the legacy she strives to leave.
Can you describe the moment you knew you wanted to start creating your own products?
I’ve been making my own hair products since about 1999 – 2000. It’s important to understand that at this time literally everything on the shelves in the ethnic hair care aisles was targeted towards straightening and changing the texture of our hair. So it was not only about wanting to find and create with natural ingredients because I believed in the power of nature, but also wanting to have hair products that affirmed my decision to wear my hair texture in its unaltered state.
At that time there were many women of color and curly haired women connecting online in forums such as nappturality.com and naturallycurly.com. We were sharing recipes and tips and tricks and really trying to re-discover our hair’s capacities and needs, often after lifetimes of chemically straightening our hair. It was a small, but deeply passionate movement, and I’m so proud to have been a part of it. This wave of personal decisions – women choosing to love themselves and reclaim their right to beauty – has helped change industries!!
Image Source: @this
Where did you discover the term “Oyin” and what makes that ingredient special?
The term oyin means honey in the Yoruba language spoken in Nigeria, West Africa. I discovered it as a child at my baby brother’s naming ceremony, and it’s been my favorite word all my life. It’s an incredible ingredient for natural hair care because honey is so moisturizing and hydrating. And just like in English where it’s often used as a nickname for people we love, we find it delightful that it stands for sweetness, love, and joy.
Two heads are always better than one, what was it like collaborating with your partner Pierre for your brand?
Pierre and I have collaborated on almost everything since the day we met in 1998. A big part of our entrepreneurial journey is about our intention to build a life where we could be creative, celebrate and empower our community, and experience freedom. There are many people on our team without whom Oyin would not have been possible,but he’s definitely the first.
What are your suggestions for helping customers understand how to read ingredients?
A great guideline to keep in mind is that ingredients on product labels are listed in descending order of volume. That means the first ingredients are those most prominent in the formula. Too often we’ll pick up a product because it says “natural” on the front of the bottle, or features an awesome “hero” ingredient or powerhouse oil, but when you read the full list the first five ingredients are things like mineral oil or petroleum, or it may contain silicone or other non nutritive ingredients and then there’s like one drop of that hero ingredient at the very end. So definitely always turn the bottle around and make sure that the highest concentration ingredients are things that you want in your hair!
Food can be such an integral part of our hair health, can you describe the types of “food grade ingredients” used in Oyin products?
Our skin and hair absorbs what we put on it, and I believe in nutritional density. To style and not nourish feels like a waste to me. We use food grade ingredients for max nutrition: Honey, of course, as well as virgin coconut oil, olive oil, sunflower, avocado, hemp seed and walnut oils, cocoa butter, Shea butter…Wait you can’t eat Shea butter. But the Shea butter we use is also unrefined and super nutritious.
We’re coming up on the fall season, what products would you recommend for helping retain moisture?
Our rich moisture collection features superfood ingredients like honey, quinoa and bamboo extracts, and hemp seed oil. This collection includes our amazing What The Hemp deep conditioning mask, as well as our Burnt Sugar shining and sealing pomade.
Image Source:@oyinhandmade
You recently released the Conditioning Care Collection, what are some tips you recommend for a successful wash day?
Detangle gently, replenish moisture, take care of your scalp, and always use a leave in. We’ve got multiple leave ins of a varying weights: from our “juices” tea-based leave-in sprays (great for daily hydration on all textures and lightweight enough for locs”>, to a lightweight detangling milk, (oh my glide, w/avocado oil”> to our creamy leave in lotion (hair dew, which is in the Naturally Curly Hall of Fame!”>.
My number one tip for washing highly textured hair is to always detangle from ends to roots, and in sections. If your hair is very thick and/or long, it also makes a lot of sense to section first, and wash one section at a time.
Image Source:@oyinhandmade
We’ve been discussing the importance of teaching your children to love their textured hair, as a family-owned company, what are ways do you share with your kids the importance of self-love?
I believe the best resource for teaching young people to love their textured hair is a general attitude of appreciation for it while engaging them in the rituals of self-care. Highly textured hair is incredible in its variety, and has superpowers! In our house we try to make hair care time quality time – I’m braiding or twisting, my husband is working the clippers, we’re all watching a movie. It’s a time to look forward to.
There are loads of awesome books about hair texture – one of my faves is My Hair Is A Garden by Cozbi Cabrera which is not only a lovely story about a young person discovering the powers of her hair but also includes step-by-step how to information and even some recipes! I’m a maker at heart so this part of the book puts it right at the top of my list. I’m also working on my own book with my husband, who is an illustrator, which we hope to have ready by this holiday season. I just said that to give myself the pressure to get it done.
What is the legacy you want to leave behind?
My mission is threefold: to bring joy, empowerment and delight to the everyday rituals of self care. To highlight the power of natural ingredients and to encourage us all to embrace our natural and unique beauty superpowers.
Image Source: @kishmycurls
There is no way to avoid the sweat that comes with having an active lifestyle and while you can prepare as much as possible before a workout, maintaining your hair between workouts is also very important. For those who workout regularly whether that’s 2x or 5x a week, it can be tricky having to maintain our curls between workouts because of the frequency of an active lifestyle and the toll it can have on your hair health.Between workouts you want to refresh, style, and accessorize your hair in ways that replenishes and hydrates it until your next workout. You never want to take the position of doing nothing because you’re going to workout sooner rather than later. Your curls need moisture and maintenance even if it’s just a spritz from a refresher or a nice scalp massage to free your roots of the sweat and product build up.
Here our 10 products and accessories to help you style and refresh your hair between workout days.
1. Sunday ll Sunday Revive Me Daily Moisturizing Spray–
Are you ready to bring your curls back to life? We all know the struggle of post-workout sweat and how it can cause an itchy scalp and limp curls. This moisturizing spray features ingredients like argan oil and tea tree extract and can be used daily to refresh your curls and provide scalp relief between your workouts.
2. Girl + Hair Under Hair Care On the Go Travel Kit–
Scalp care is so important when you are working out because sweat can not only cause an itchy scalp, but cause product build-up which can prevent healthy hair growth. The Girl + Hair Under Hair Care is the perfect kit for keeping your products in your gym bag for easy use after a workout. The three-step system also makes it easy to cleanse, condition, and style your hair on-the-go! Whether you are working out at home or in a gym, this trio is perfect to keep handy between workouts to give your scalp the love it deserves.
3. Rizos Curl Refresh and Detangle Spray–
We can all use a refresher between our workouts which can help reactivate any existing product in your hair. While you are maintaining your curly regime you won’t be rewashing your hair after every gym session so a refresher is a great way to liven up your curls with less effort. Rizos Curl Refresh and Detangle Spray is one of our B.O.B winners that will lock in moisture without leaving your hair greasy. This is perfect curlies who don’t plan to co-wash or cleanse their hair between wash days, but need to give their curls a moisture boost.
4. Ecoco Ecostyler Professional Styling Gel With Olive Oil–
When you are rocking your favorite protective style, having a good gel is critical for helping smooth down your baby hairs and flyaways after a series of workouts. The frizz is real. We highly encourage embracing the updo, braids, or any of your classic workout styles to keep your hair off your neck and away from your face and securing it with a gel is the finishing touch. The key to remember with a gel is to use one like our 2020 B.O.B winner that is free of alcohol, doesn’t flake, and has UV protection to protect your strands from the sun so you can keep your hair smoothed down between workout days.
5. Righteous Roots RX–
Don’t forget whenever you finish working out, cleansing your curls is very important whether you are about to hit the showers or giving your hair a refresh. There is nothing more important than cleansing your roots and Righteous Roots RX is very versatile for helping cleanse your hair whether you use it as a scalp massage, deep conditioner hot oil treatment, or use it to soften any gel buildup in your hair. Bask your curls with ingredients like mint, coconut, and tea tree for some relaxing post workout self care.
6. Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper Flexy Brush–
We all know after a great workout comes an intense set of tangles that can build up depending on your hairstyle, accessories, and sweat. When you are washing your hair post workout, you want to use a brush that is going to detangle and define your curls to bring them back to life. Whether your hair is wet or dry this is a strong, durable brush that is perfect for stubborn knots and sensitive scalps.
7. Hair Remedie Frizz Eliminating Towel-Lavender–
When you live an active lifestyle whether you need as much convenience as possible when styling your hair. As you develop your curly hair regime between workout days, you want to minimize the frizz as much as possible. This towel is perfect for protecting your hair between workouts because it can help it dry faster without frizz or damage.It’s multipurpose use makes it a must-have in your gym bag because of its ability to absorb moisture quickly.
8. Grace Eleyae Black Jersey Knit Headband–
There is nothing like trying to figure out how to keep a smooth, polished hairstyle between workouts and depending on your style, you may be limited to how you can transform your hair. Throwing on a chic headband is perfect for protecting your edges and stylishly holding your hair back. The versatility of a headband allows for your to wear your hair down, in an updo, or give your edges some love while they are exposed with a protective style.
9. Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper Badazz Backless Curl Cap–
Fighting the frizz is one of the most common hair problems you experience when you workout since you sweat out alot of products when you are working out. Wearing a hat between workout days can help eliminate the frizz and allow you to wear your hair comfortably in a ponytail, low bun, or protective style. This backless curl cap won’t snap your hair and comfortable wraps around your head for a stylish comfortable fit.
10. SwirlyCurly Black Satin Bonnet–
Protection is the key your hair needs and nothing does it better than a bonnet. Wearing a satin bonnet can help your hair hold moisture and protect your curls whether you’re rocking it during the day or night. Satin bonnets are a tried and tested staple of a naturalistas regime because they also protect your edges and ends of your hair to prevent breakage. After putting your hair through the ringer during a workout, you definitely want to wind down with a bonnet on your rest days.
Which one are you planning to try? Share with us in the comments!
We’ve all heard the term “health is wealth,” but did you know that extends to not only our physical body, but our hair? One of the key factors in helping develop thick, healthy, moisturized hair doesn’t begin or end with your favorite products, the secret lies in what you eat. You can have the best products in the world on your hair, deep condition weekly, and get your ends trimmed, but if your food intake is less than ideal, you are working against your hair instead of with it. Having a balanced diet is necessary to improve your hair health because there is a direct correlation between what you eat and how it can transform your hair from the inside out.
Essential proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals are all filled with nutrients that can keep your hair growing long and strong. While there are superfoods you can eat like avocado, coconut oil, honey, etc. that can be eaten or used in hair masks to promote hair growth, these aren’t long term solutions. These should be included in your daily diet in addition to a health array of balanced fruits and vegetables. We decided to ask the experts about their favorite foods to help increase healthy hair growth and keep your scalp happy!
1. Simone Venner
Image Source: @Msholistic
“A good balanced diet of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals are crucial for healthy shiny hair and dry, brittle hair can often be a result of deficiency.
What should you eat for healthier hair?
You can never go wrong with adding more antioxidants into your daily diet. Antioxidants found in berries and greens may help to promote and improve hair growth by maintaining the collagen in the body. Sweet potato, squash, and dark leafy green vegetables contain high amounts of vitamin A which help with production of sebum, the oil that helps maintain levels of moisture in the skin and hair. Another essential is our EFAs. Omega3 may promote circulation in the scalp that may boost hair growth. Aim to add avocados, walnuts, chia and milled flax seeds into your diet to help boost levels.”
2. Shannon Whittingham
Image Source: Sincerelyshans
“When it comes to foods that are great for textured hair we should take a look at the vitamins and minerals that play a role in hair growth. Our body needs a variety of nutrients to create hair tissue and to grow. In fact, many nutritional deficiencies are linked to hair loss. With that said, some of the most important vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy textured hair include vitamin A, vitamin D, and zinc.
- Vitamin A: Fact & Foods — All cells need vitamin A for growth, and it also helps the skin glands to make sebum to keep our hair moisturized from the inside out! Foods high in vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, and kale.
- Vitamin D: Fact & Foods — Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to alopecia (source“>! You can get vitamin D from sunlight, fortified foods, cod liver oil, and most fatty fish (i.e. salmon”>.
- Zinc: Fact & Foods — Zinc helps with hair tissue growth and repair! Foods high in zinc include oysters, spinach, lentils, wheat germ, and pumpkin seeds.”
3. Cassie Brown
Image Source: _candidhealth
“If we want to increase the health of our hair, it’s important to know that it’s not just about what we’re putting on our hair. There’s a lot that goes on internally that affects the overall condition. Eating nutrient-dense and drinking plenty of water helps with multiple functions in our body that, in turn, make for healthy hair. These functions are things like, cell and tissue growth and repair, decreasing oxidative stress on our scalp, maintaining healthy moisture levels and providing optimal collagen and protein (since protein is what our hair follicles are built from!”>. There are many nutrients that help with the health of our hair: essential omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins A, C, E, selenium, zinc, iron and biotin.You can get most of these through a combination and rotation (important in making sure we’re getting a variety of nutrients”> of these foods: dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, carrots, avocado,red pepper, cauliflower, broccoli, chickpeas, lentils, beans, nuts/seeds like brazil, walnut, cashews, almonds, chia, flax and hemp, tofu, fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines, eggs, avocado, and olive oil.”
4. Nicole Short
Image: Getfitwitniks
“1. Eggs: Our hair follicles are made mostly of protein, adding eggs into your diet can stimulate hair growth. Eggs are a win win, as they also contain biotin.
2. Sweet Potato: This root vegetable is loaded with Vitamin A, which can promote thicker and healthier hair.
3. Bell peppers: Contain more than 100% of the DV of Vitamin C per cup. Vitamin C aids in collagen synthesis. Collagen is known for its regenerative properties to promote hair growth and elasticity.”
5. Crystal Hadnott
Image Source: Crystalhadnott
“You can place all of the top products onto your hair, but the nutrients inside of your body play a critical role. With all of the social media ads and commercials promising long radiant hair, it’s also important to know that the recipe to healthy hair is not in your medicine cabinet, local drug store or hair salon—it’s in your kitchen. Instead of popping the latest supplement, nourish your hair from the inside out by consuming these foods. Spinach – loaded with iron which most people are deficient. Iron deficiency is the number one cause of hair loss. Tangerines – loaded with Vitamin C which helps you absorb iron, if you typically are deficient in iron. Eggs – packed with B Vitamins and Biotin, which assist with hair growth and strengthening. Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants which keeps your scalp happy and healthy.”
6. Farah Green
Image: Farahmgreen_
“Most women believe they need several different hair products to keep their hair curly, soft, tamed and moisturized, but managing your curls doesn’t have to be difficult. All you need is the proper nutrients to keep your hair healthy, strong and shiny. I would highly recommend consuming an omega-3 daily. Omega-3 is rich in fatty acids and proteins that can prevent your hair from shedding and keep your strands strong. You can easily find an omega-3 source in salmon, nuts and plant-based oil like flaxseed oil and soybean oil. Another great source of nutrients to consume for healthy hair are dark leafy greens like kale and spinach. Kale and spinach are packed with vitamin C that protects the cell membrane in your hair follicles. Protecting your hair follicles are important because it’s responsible for repairing your hair if ever damaged. Consuming lentils, beans and chickpeas are also essential because it contains B-complex vitamins that stimulate hair growth.”
Tell us about your journey into natural hair care.
Image Source: @Janell_Stephens
Camille Rose is all about ingredients. I had been on a journey in 2012 for a more natural lifestyle for me and my family. I began by using more ingredients that were open and dabbling with formulas at home. I would drop my kids off to school, mix, formulate, write everything down and restart along with getting feedback from my family and friends who I was handing out samples to. When I created my website I started getting orders and would speak directly to my consumers online and act as my own customer service representative in order to get their honest feedback. They had no idea they were talking directly to me. I created all my content, designed my labels, I did it all. I got approached by a buyer and told them my reason for creating Camille Rose and it was received so well by my consumers that it grew into what we are today.
What was the formulation process like when you first got started?
I did everything in my kitchen. I was so into researching, trying, touching, smelling, and just being immersed in the formulation process. I would order samples of different scents to add to my curl cream, leave-in, or shampoo. I was my own chemist and I called myself a kitchen chemist. Initially of course it was a pinch of this, dash of that, a sprinkle of everything. I became intrigued with herbs, natural smells of herbs not seen in products, the brewing process and how it makes the product look. I loved the idea of the finished product and giving myself and my kids the best. I wanted us to receive the full benefits of using natural ingredients. My kids were my inspiration and I created the line for them. All of my kids had big curls and I wanted to prevent my daughter from ever getting a chemical relaxer and so I began to ask how can I get them to love their hair? How can I ensure that the ingredients used in the products aren’t harmful. I wanted natural ingredients and herbs to be their medicine.
What are some misconceptions about natural hair we still continue to face today?
I think we need to work on categorizing hair by types. I think all hair is beautiful regardless of the type of texture we have. We should stop focusing on how to categorize each other’s hair and think about ingredients. For example, if I have a thicker texture then I would need a heavier ingredient to moisturize my strands like a shea or coconut cream. We should educate people based on the ingredient versus what products are good for their hair type.
Image Source: @Janell_Stephens
What are your suggestions for helping customers understand how to read ingredients?
When I picked up a product that said organic or natural, I was the first person to Google everything I didn’t understand. I would be concerned if the organic ingredient was the last one labeled or had just a little bit within the product. We have to now put the scientific names of the ingredients on the label, we can’t just put coconut oil or shea butter on the back. You want to use products with common ingredients you use in the kitchen. Camille Rose considers itself a gourmet smoothie brand because we incorporate items from the kitchen into our products. Alot of ingredients a consumer sees in our brand are real food items like coconut water, almond milk, etc. I cannot stress enough the importance of label reading before purchasing a product.
You’ve recently started creating custom deep blends for your customers, what would yours be?
Image Source: @Janell_Stephens
When COVID happened, we had to pivot quickly and everything we had scheduled for 2020 had to be shut down. What the team and I came up with is offering our consumers some entertainment by giving them a virtual beauty kitchen. We wanted our consumers and followers the freedom to create their own custom blends using signature scents. They get to customize their own treatment. I love deep treatments so I would have chosen all of my oils in one deep conditioner.
The Natural Almond Jai Twisting Butter is one of our 2020 BOB Selections for Naturally Curly, what types of styles would you recommend creating with this product?
This product can be worn with many different styles like a twist-out, but I would encourage people to use it with their wash and go. A twisting butter is meant to hold your style and hold your twist which is similar to the effect you get with a wash and go.
Your best-selling Curl Love Moisture Milk is also listed a holy grail staple from our 2020 BOB awards, what are your tips for using a leave-in conditioner?
Curl Love is our tried and true product. I think everyone should be using a leave-in conditioner and moisture is key for any type of textured hair. This can be used on a daily basis as a refresher, on your edges, or add it to smooth down the flyaways on a ponytail.
Image Source: @Janell_Stephens
Camille Rose has 6 collections of products, what is your favorite and which products would you recommend using during this last month of summer?
Our signature collection (the pink label”> is hands down the best to use during these summer months. We started with and it never fails! Our Algae Renew Deep Conditioner is such a penetrating mask which is great for the heat when our hair tends to get dryer. The Coconut Water collection had two new products, the Coconut Water hydrating elixir and co-wash which is good for people with finer strands. They are all my favorites because each of my collections that I put out is a reflection of an ingredient I was focused on at the time.
What can we expect from Camille Rose in the future?
We’re debuting a honey collection with honey foam, honey deep conditioner, honey super cream, and honey spritzer!
What legacy do you strive to leave?
I’ve always endeavored to go beyond the world of beauty and expand to lifestyle, skin, and home. I want to offer goodness in every category in the big box retailers, we are more than a hairstyle, we are a lifestyle. Ingredients and total wellness is who I am and what I offer to my customers on the daily.
Natural hair care just got a scientific twist added to it’s formulation process thanks to the Bounce Curl founder, Merian Mismmo. As a curly girl with a Bachelor’s of Science with a focus in chemistry, Merian used her skills and tools as a chemist to bring Bounce Curl to life. Her love affair with her hair began at the early age of 10 in which she learned to embrace her naturally curly hair. Her family encouraged her to take care and nourish her curls using natural, homemade ingredients which would later become the inspiration for many of her Bounce Curl products.
While she was pursuing her degree in her early 20s, she began to develop an interest in the hair industry, she explains, “I really love the chemistry and how the process moves from individual ingredients to finished product.” She later began to volunteer and work in a laboratory where she started to formulate her own gels. The endless days in the lab where she tirelessly worked to mix acids, analyzing bacteria, and reading the IR spectrum led the creation of her first and most popular product, the “Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel.”
The secret to Bounce Curl’s success is a unique blend of ingredients like black seed oil, essential oils, and extensive testing to update any products using the green chemistry principles. Merian is devoted to working up close and personal with each product she creates and is passionate about sourcing their ingredients from top of the line manufacturers and testing each product for quality control. We got the chance to chat with Merian and get to the 411 on how to read ingredients, hair loss and the secret to healthy hair growth.
How would you describe the formulation process for your products?
I started working in the cosmetic industry in 2010. At that time, cosmetic chemists were old school and still using bad preservatives and cancer-causing ingredients in their formulas. I was hip to social media; I connected with potential consumers online and knew what they wanted. The main concept is not too surprising – create products that do not have cancer-causing ingredients in them! Also – create products that do not have extremely toxic ingredients in them either! Here is a list of ingredients we do not use: Silicones, Parabens, Sulfates, PEG’s, DEA/MEA, Propylene Glycol, Formaldehydes, Phthalates, Animal Testing & JUNK. Bounce Curl products are Color Safe & Vegan. This list will continue to grow as scientists keep discovering toxic contaminants. In addition, we are Cruelty-Free and you can find Bounce Curl listed on the PETA website confirming that we do NOT test on animals.
What are your tips for reading and understanding ingredients? How does the Think Dirty app help to navigate this process?
We are proud members of the THINK DIRTY app. This is an app that allows users to learn about potential hazards of products (and their ingredients”>, indicating those containing known carcinogens (cancer causing agents”>, hormone disruptors, and allergens. The app assigns a product rating of 1-10 for brands and products indicating how “clean” they are. A rating of 0-3 indicates a product is very green and clean; ALL Bounce Curl products earn a 0-2 rating!
At Bounce Curl, we have products that contain 100% naturally derived scents from essential oils. Some of our other products (two creams”> also contain a synthetic fragrance created by our Founder that is blended with uncompromised ingredients. The ingredients in the fragrance rate as “low & green” on the Think Dirty app.
I think the Think Dirty app is a great tool for consumers; they can quickly look at and understand what toxic ingredients are in their beauty products. Think Dirty provides consumers with an independent review and published articles instead of the misleading and unconfirmed information that can be found everywhere on the internet. We are confident in the high quality and “cleanliness” of our product ingredients and that is why we chose to submit our products to a credible certification resource like Think Dirty.
Bounce Curl advocates for using “clean ingredients” in their products, why is this important for achieving healthy hair?
“Clean ingredients” can have many different connotations. Our clean means that Bounce Curl products won’t contain any known ingredients that can cause cancer or get absorbed into the bloodstream and potentially create illnesses. We also stay up-to-date with ingredient changes. Scientists are regularly developing new solutions that result in better and more innovative preservatives/ingredients for hair products. Bounce Curl will always explore and evaluate these new options. For example, 10-20 years ago, companies were using formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in their cosmetics because that was the only available option for preserving their products. I am a member of the Chemist Society, I stay updated with the development of new, innovative ingredients. Bounce Curl is committed to staying current with the latest and best ingredients that follow green chemistry principles after confirming they perform well in our formulas.
What is your favorite holy grail product from your collection and why?
I have fine textured hair and I love volume. I love to use Bounce Curl Gentle Enzyme Clarifying Shampoo, Super Smooth Conditioner, and Light Crème Gel to style my hair. It provides light hold and lots of volume; it does not weigh down my hair.
The Bounce Curl Alcohol-Free Hairspray was recognized as one of our 2020 BOB products, what are your tips for using hairspray to style your hair?
My best advice is to use it after you have finished styling your hair. To provide hold, spray 2-3 pumps while holding the hairspray 6 inches away from your hair. If you want volume, you can spray a little on your hair pick and pick your roots with it.
What are your tips for healthy hair growth and what challenges to expect along the way?
Healthy hair comes from within. I always recommend eating foods with protein, iron, and zinc. I also suggest using a great hair vitamin with biotin. Bounce Curl Vitamins help my hair tremendously.
Also, do not use heat on your hair. I used to use my hair diffuser at warm heat, but I noticed that it would cause split ends. That caused me to cut my hair more often. Lastly, many women will experience hair loss at one point in their life. This is NORMAL. Do not panic.
In a recent Bounce Curl blog post, here’s a list of reasons for hair loss.
- Acute trauma – Surgery, physical injury, or psychological trauma
- Diet – Lack of protein, nutritional deficiencies, low vitamin levels, dramatic weight loss.
- Hormonal changes – A sudden hormone change, like pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause can commonly cause hair loss in women.
- Illnesses – Autoimmune diseases, anemia, PCOS, thyroid issues, skin conditions (such as psoriasis”>, etc.
- Mechanical stress/Chemicals – Certain hair care practices can cause trauma that damages hair follicles, which results in hair loss; for example, permanent color, bleach, or perms. Flat-ironing, curling irons, or blowing out the hair too often causes a similar effect. Wearing your hair in tight ponytails or buns may also exacerbate the issue.
- Medications – Thinning hair or hair loss is a possible side effect of some medications or treatments. For example, chemotherapy/radiation.
- Stress – Stress and anxiety can cause large clumps of hair to both weaken and fall out, which can eventually lead to bald spots.
- Hereditary
It’s important to note that if you are experiencing unexplained and severe hair loss, you should consult with your doctor. They will help you get to the bottom of the issue; it can be temporary or an indication of something else that might be going on.
What are the biggest misconceptions when it comes to caring for curly hair?
There are people with incorrect opinions about oils and butters in hair products. Some people will say they only use water soluble products. I am not sure they realize that, if they use hair creams or conditioners, these include ingredients that are derived from oil such as cetearyl alcohol (which is not water soluble”>. I do not think that oils and butters are bad for curly hair. They provide slip, shine, and nourish the curls.
I also see trends on Instagram about different types of ingredients. I think there are a lot of misconceptions about them. I have included my thoughts on them in my IGTV. Some of these trends include topics like “proteins are bad for hair and glycerin is the enemy,” which are two trends I do not agree with.
What are some lessons you’ve learned along the way as an entrepreneur?
I have learned to do things that I never thought I would! From making major business decisions to driving a forklift in my warehouse. The biggest lesson I have learned is to be organized. When you own a business, you have about 100 different tasks and jobs, big and small, and sometimes they all seem to need your attention at the same time. In a single day, you might see me cooking things in the lab, moving pallets in the warehouse, picking and packing orders if my employee is out, printing labels, resolving customer service issues, editing videos, taking photos, managing finances, hiring employees, helping other entrepreneurs with questions and the list goes on & on. I have to be organized or else I will become stressed out. To help manage my stress, I love to do yoga at least 2-3 times a week.
Did you have any curly mentors or leaders you looked to when getting into the hair space?
I was very young when I came into the industry and I never had the chance to have mentors. The only mentor figure was my grandmother even though she didn’t have curly hair. But she taught me how to use ayurvedic & middle eastern ingredients in my hair as a kid. When I founded Bounce Curl, I felt like I was always doing the teaching.
What can we expect in the future from Bounce Curl?
I am so excited about the expansion of our product line!
Currently, I am working really hard on developing:
- Light Moisture line
- Medium Moisture line
- Extra Moisture line
- Treatments
- Stylers (that have no moisture level”>
- Supplements
Currently, the Bounce Curl medium moisture line is available. This winter, products will be added to our treatments line and our extra moisture line. I am still working on products for the Bounce Curl light moisture line. Going forward, we will continue to add products to all product lines.
Some new products coming out this year are:
Treatments:
- Ayurvedic Deep Conditioner with weightless oils
- Turmeric Hair Detox Jelly
Extra Moisture line:
- Defining Butta- A butter for type 4a-4c hair.
Nothing has become more vital over the course of naturalistas life than learning how to love her hair. For some of us this happened early in life and for others it came much later with proper education, styling, and understanding of why our hair is unique. I know I was a later bloomer and stepped into the natural hair space courtesy of my younger sister who tried to sell me on wearing my out and proud. We didn’t come from an era that celebrated natural hair and having sleek/straight hair was the more desirable look at the time. How times have changed, and I am so thankful for that. Now that natural hair is more prevalent in TV, social media, and digital spaces, parents are provided with the opportunity to educate their young girls early about their textured hair and why every tendril on their hair is so special. However, choosing when and where to start with this education in self-love is essential as young girls grow up and become exposed to hair conversations, inquiries, and questions that can shape how they view their hair. Here are a few tips for raising your daughter to embrace her curls from moms of curly haired little princesses rising to the occasion.
@naturallycurlykids
“I tell my girls to never compromise yourself to please someone else. Embrace who you are to the fullest, that includes your curls, you, my darling, were made without mistake. I am all about self love and embracing one’s God-given self.”
Muneera Page
“Teaching my girls to love their natural hair and embrace uniqueness has always been an important part of our lives. To help them gain confidence and appreciation of self-care, we recite daily affirmations in the mirror every morning as well as read books with diverse children showing different hair lengths and textures. I also allow my girls to help with wash days by choosing their own hairstyles. We love taking mommy and me selfies, no greater way to capture memories!”
Dana Harvey
“I first noticed my oldest daughter’s comments about how much she loves Elsa and Rapunzel’s hair from the movies she frequently watched on repeat. Jumping on this quickly, I encouraged her to watch movies with more diversity in hair types like Moana, Princess and the Frog, and Brave. I purchased books that integrated character diversity like ‘Happy Within’ by Marisa Taylor (a good friend of mine”> and positive affirmations such as, ‘I Like Myself’ by Karen Beaumont. Most girls follow their mother’s example and being that we have completely opposite hair types, I encourage hair time to be a fun bonding time where I’ll attempt to style with fun clips and bows to match mommy’s. No matter the craziness of the request, I will always ask her how SHE wants me to style it that day so she knows she gets a choice. I will always and forever speak positive affirmations to them, as I know we never truly appreciate our own beauty.”
Dayna Bolden
Image Source: Lajoy Photography LLC
“Raising my daughter to love her hair starts with me first. I have to be her first example of self-love by loving myself. I try to be the most positive example for my daughter by wearing my natural hair texture proudly. She can see me and be confident in her hair. I tell my daughter daily how beautiful she is. I love complimenting her on her hair so that she is always confident in what God blessed her with. Representation matters, so I try to get her books with little girls that look like her so that she can always see a piece of herself in the content she consumes.”
Michelle Thames
“By reading books to her with characters whose hair looks like hers. We also recite affirmations daily in the mirror about her hair. She also has seen me go through my natural hair and loc journey and she understands that her hair is beautiful just the way it comes out of her scalp. I always tell her how beautiful her and her curls are.”
Shay J.
“Growing up, I didn’t always love my hair because I didn’t understand it and it felt like a burden, so when I had kids, I knew I’d be intentional with how I pour into them and encourage them to embrace their natural hair. I never speak negatively to them about their hair or complain that it’s too thick, too time consuming, or too hard to do. I show them positive images of other kids in the media and point out that the person has hair like them. I want them to know that there are people out there who look like them. I get them involved in the process of doing their hair and explain what each product is and why we use them, to teach them how to eventually care for their hair on their own. I tell them that God took His time to coil each strand of their hair and made them unique, so they need a little more TLC and attention.”
We’re sending so much love and virtual hugs to all our NC families. Thanks for sharing your words of encouragement mamas.
We want to hear from you, in the comments below, let us know how you encourage your curly kids to embrace their natural curls, coils and waves.
During this pandemic many of us have had little to no access to our favorite stylists due to the mandated restrictions from quarantine. This has proved to be a challenge for many of us as we continue to scour the internet for any resources to help achieve our coveted hairstyles. The summer heat calls for protective styles like braids, cornrows, bantu knots, and two-strand twists that not only protect our hair from the elements ,but keep it healthy during swimming, workouts, and limited traveling. If you’re like some curlies, we need a little extra help when it comes to braiding and styling our hair because it’s a disciplined technique that takes continuous practice intertwining fingers, weaves, extensions, and product to create your ideal braids. Detroit native Niani Barracks has created the solution to the problem with “A Safe Space For Black Girls That Never Learned to Braid.”
Image Source: @niani_b
Niani has taken the mastery of braiding in the salon and brought it to the virtual space to be shared and taught with naturalistas all over the world. Natural hair care can not only be expensive with average braiding rates starting anywhere from $100 and up depending on factors like the style, amount of hair, and length of time a stylist spends working with you. If you didn’t grow up braiding your own hair or being taught how to braid, the thought of doing it yourself can be overwhelming, scary, frustrating, and at times embarrassing because it’s such an integral part of Black culture. It can be intimidating to admit you don’t know how to braid and Niani wants to eliminate the shame and stigma that can come with this by helping naturalistas of all hair types to learn how to braid.
Image Source: @niani_b
A person can select their class level by “Never Learned” or “Beginner/Intermediate” that is led by knowledgeable stylists and braiders who share their techniques during the live weekly classes with pre-recorded videos that allow people to work at their own pace. and then are charged a monthly fee starting at $10. The “Never Learned” classes will teach education in basic plait, constructing a basic cornrow, prepping hair, and choosing the right products for your texture. The “Beginner/Intermediate ” sessions start at $19/mnthly elevates your braiding game by combining techniques like twist, adding curls, and incorporating extensions to your look.
Niani’s overall goal is to create a safe space for Black girls to love their natural hair by learning to care for it. After a write-up in the New York Times her platform grew exponentially and she’s begun to have international interest in her classes from parents looking to learn how to style their mixed children’s hair and transracial families with adopted children from Africa. As a mom of two this motivates her to continue teaching and showing the importance of how to properly care for textured hair. While classes are currently booked through August, you can snag a spot on the waiting list for the next series of classes opening up on September 3rd.
While you are waiting to sign up for one of her coveted classes, here are a few tips for braiding your hair at home.
1. Protect and Cleanse Your Hair
You always want to prep your hair by cleansing and shampooing it before you begin styling. Follow up your wash with your favorite deep conditioner and leave-in before blow drying it straight with a heat protectantin order to minimize any damage.
2. Divide Your Hair Into Sections
You want to create as many individual sections as possible depending on how micro or jumbo you plan to make your braids. You should use alligator clips to hold the separate pieces to ensure they don’t tangle and you maintain your part.
3. Incorporating Your Extensions or Weave
Depending on the type of style you create, you may have minimal or maximum extensions to braid into your hair. Synthetic hair can be used for box braids while Kanekalon hair is most often used in twists. You always want to research the type of braids you plan to create, length, and ingredients to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
4. Keep Your Products Nearby
The type of products you use for your braids is so important, make sure you have bought some edge control, gel, or balm ahead of time so it is readily available as you create your braid. Don’t forget to research the type of product that is best suited for your braid so you don’t purchase the wrong product.
5. Be Patient
Even the most experienced braiders have to go slow and steady when constructing their hair. Make sure you have allocated enough time to prep, section, and braid your hair otherwise it’ll end up being rushed and messy. You may hit some road blocks, your fingers could get tired, or you may just need a break, and that’s okay. Don’t give up!
What are your tips for braiding your hair at home? Share them with us in the comments!
Bombastic, breathtaking, beautiful, and unapologetically Black…need we say more about the recent film debut of Queen Bey? Black Is King premiered last week and the internet has been buzzing about the iconic hairstyles, makeup, and larger than life film set as a love letter to the roots and history of the African diaspora. Beyoncé’s latest feat of genius reflects her own unique spin on Disney’s Lion King as she invites viewers into the royal and regal story of a young boy walking through his past, present, and future narrated by the musical styles of her album The Lion King: The Gift. It is brazenly Black and celebrates the beauty of African culture through music and visual storytelling that uplifts Black people and dares to challenge anyone exploring their sense of identity and culture as it relates to their ancestry.
Image: @zerinaakers of @dioufsarah
In all its glory Black is King is an 80-minute visual of ethnic wonder that serves as a tribute to Africa and the magic of its people. The film features afrobeats from South African artists Moonchild Sanelly and Busiswa blended with hip thrusting choreography set against the backdrop of an Africa layered with people dressed in fringe, bejewelled accessories, leopard, cowhide, flowing locs, and 30 feet of braids. Yes you read correctly, 30 feet! To say the internet was gushing over each and every Yoncé look is an understatement…because they were brimming with awe and pride at the stunning production of style and hair that was displayed in all it’s fierce and fabulous natural glory.
Image: @a_kid_named_trav of @beyonce
Beyoncé assembled a top notch team featuring long time stylists Kim Kimble and Neal Farriah who collaborated with Nakia Collins, Xia Charles, Safiya Warner, and Kendra Garvey (to name a few”> creating over 40 wigs throughout the film. This team worked together to braid, weave, and sew each look to reflect Black beauty and the rich heritage that goes into a floor-length weave or an intricate bantu knot. Paying homage to the history behind each style was critical for Neal Farriah who has shared the inspiration behind each individual look whether it was a “Braided Crown Mangbetu” hailing from Eastern Congo, highlighting the origins of the “Bantu” created by the Zulu people, or the “Orisha Bunmi” worn by Nigerian women in 1968-1985. As the team worked together to bring Beyoncé’s vision to life they looked for inspiration from the Dinka and Mursi tribes, Senegal, Africa, and ancient Egyptians that brought together elegant and intricate headdresses, horned heads, and lip plates that paid reverence to styles that have become defining attributes of Black hair and fashion.
Naturally Curly spoke with Kim Kimble who has worked with Beyoncé for the past 20 years and was one of the dynamic artists helping create the iconic hairstyles in Black Is King. As an industry veteran she has created some of Beyonce’s most iconic hairstyles in addition to working with artists like Brandy, Kerry Washington, and Mary J. Blige. We were excited to speak with Kim about the creative process behind the Black Is King hairstyles and her love of the natural hair revolution.
How many hairstyles did you create for this production?
“There were several stylists working on this project and a few I worked on were featured in the SPIRIT, Already, and the 30-foot-long braid featured in Water.”
What was the process like creating those hairstyles? Especially the 30 foot braids (OMG”>
“We definitely had to test it out, I had six braiders because they had to braid each individual braid 30 ft. long. The process was pretty dope because we weren’t sure artistically what Beyoncé was going to do with it, but we knew it had to be long. I’m sure we must have broken some type of Guiness World Book of Record for the longest braids ever created.”
Image: @zerinaakers of @beyonce
What was the inspiration behind the hairstyles?
“We explored the history of different African tribes and Black beauty. The goal was to blend our culture and African culture in a modern way.”
What were your most memorable moments being a part of this production and working with Beyoncé?
“Anytime I work on a project with her it is memorable because I get to see the whole production whether it’s the fashion or choreography which helps inform how the hair is going to move. It’s a great opportunity to see behind the scenes and collaborate with the creative directors.”
There were several different stylists who worked together for this project, what was that creative process like?
“It was a great collaboration of so many different stylists that blended to be cohesive to the vision and style Beyoncé wanted for the film. The combination of wardrobe stylists, makeup artists, and hair stylists helped execute this beautiful mission she had to tell Black people that we are powerful, we are royalty, take your place, and recognize who you are.”
@a_kid_named_trav of @beyonce
Did you get to go on location and create the hairstyles or were they created before production started?
“We worked on location and got to see stunning visuals in Arizona and California that reflected the African aesthetics she wanted whether it was mountains or The Grand Canyon. I remember red dirt in Arizona which was reminiscent of the red clay African women use in their hair and was incorporated into some of the looks throughout the film.
What was really interesting is not only is African hair very creative, but is indicative of their tribe, who they are, and where they come from. I think what Beyoncé wanted to evoke to people is that we as African Americans with African ancestors come from a beautiful, interesting, and vibrant, culture. That was showcased in each aspect of the film from the wardrobe to the dancing. I love how she combined traditional elements with modern styles”
@nealfarinah of @beyonce
What story did you & Beyoncé want to tell throughout Black Is King?
“I really appreciate African hair and we had originally started incorporating that into her style during Lemonade. Black Is King is really her interpretation of The Lion King and she wanted to convey the beauty of our culture and African hair. What’s cool about being Black is how unique we are in our style, clothes, and makeup and she wanted to convey that imagery throughout the film.”
What does natural hair represent to you?
“One of the reasons I created natural hair products is because I wanted people to learn to love their hair and embrace what God has given us. The whole natural hair movement has changed the beauty industry and provided a real source of income and revenue for Black businesses. I’ve seen so many people with beautiful and natural hair who are excited to learn how to keep it healthy and what creative ways they can style it. It’s very eye-opening and revolutionary to me because I personally love the versatility of rocking my natural hair but also throwing a wig, weave, extension or sew-in on it when I want to.
I’m a hair stylist and I like to try different things but working with my natural hair has been a great experience especially during the quarantine as I’m educating my clients on how they can style their natural hair since their beauty regime is limited due to the pandemic. Natural hair is love and loving yourself. Even when Lemonade emerged I remember Beyoncé shifting into more textured hairstyles and I love that she continues to be a representation of that for the younger generations. I thank God for natural hair.
@nakiarachon of @beyonce
How do you hope to redefine natural hair in Hollywood and beyond?
“Natural hair is here to stay and I’m so happy to see that being reflected more and more on screen. I see so much of it evoked on television and I love that I contribute tools, products, and accessories to help enhance our natural beauty. As a celebrity hairstylist I try to educate my clients on the beauty of natural hair and how to protect it by wearing wigs and maintaining protective styles so it can remain healthy. You have to really nurture, condition, and take care of your natural hair properly so you see the true beauty of it in all its glory. I love to see how strong the natural hair movement has become for younger generations and that they embrace who they are and don’t allow people to define them.”
Did you watch Black is King? If so, what hairstyles were your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
Fashion meets functionality with the amazing array of the self-titled products created by founder Grace Eleyae. The Grace Eleyae products were created with hair care at the forefront of each individual item that ranges from cult favorites like satin pillowcases, headbands, and turbans to specialty items such as wool hats, fedoras, and a wax print collection. Grace was inspired to create her products after a 16 hour road trip in Kenya left her with a circle of breakage in the middle of her head. “That experience started the idea that there has to be a fashionable and functional way to protect my hair. Over the course of the next year the idea developed and we were able to create the first prototype for the “Slaps” in February 2014.” After the product was featured by a popular YouTuber the “Slaps” (Satin-Lined Cap”> were an immediate success which later led to the development of Grace Eleyae, Inc.
These modern protective products combine satin and silk to give naturalistas healthier hair by retaining moisture, helping prevent split ends, and reducing hair breakage.This special blend that is used in every Grace Eleyae product also prevents frizz by keeping the cuticles protected, are hypoallergenic which can help with breakouts, and can reduce hair loss which is optimal for hair growth. Customers are given a variety of options to choose from whether they are looking for protection on-the-go with a hat or opting for a more casual look with the classic Slap. Grace has transformed the concept of hair protection that a naturalista usually uses at night to versatile products meant to enhance individual style whether you’re at the office or gym. We were delighted to talk to Grace about how these products help protect textured hair, the story behind her first product, and what legacy she continues to cultivate as the business grows.
What inspired the name of your first prototype “Slaps?”
My mom and my younger sister initially called the prototype a “satin lined cap” when it was first made and I kept thinking there was a word that is specific to the product. It’s not quite a beanie or a bonnet, we used to say if the beanie and bonnet had a baby it would be the Slap. We don’t want to call it just a beanie because it has satin inside. We played around with a few phrases and words when my mom tried to combine the words to name it a “Sleanie.” She actually ended up coming up with the final name just by reiterating the concept of “Satin Lined Caps” which transformed organically into Slaps.
What makes your brand/collection unique?
We always reiterate that our products are a perfect blend of fashion and function. Our goal is to create products that make confidence look effortless. After the initial creation of the Slaps we wanted to expand on the notion of going from bed to the boardroom in 10 minutes flat without having to put a lot of work into doing their hair, essentially saving them time. We want people to combine the fashion elements of a beanie or turban with a headband with the protective element of satin on the inside.
You feature an array of products from accessories to caps and pillowcase. What are your favorites and why?
My favorite is the turban in all forms. I wear my hair in wash n go (TWA Afro”> and so the turban works really well to just pop on my fro whether I’m going out to the store or heading to bed.
Can you explain the different benefits between using a turban vs. a headband?
The turban works really well to protect every strand of hair all the way to the end. Turbans work really well with my TWA because of the ease of use, even if my hair is pushing up against it will still have a full, volumized look. The headband is specifically for the edges and the hair around the nape or neck like someone with long hair, wearing braids, or sporting a pineapple.
You currently have three collections…The Good Morning America Collection, The Hat Collection, and The Wax Print Collection. What inspires the name of each collection and what products are featured?
The collections are specific to whatever need we are solving. For the “Good Morning America Collection,” we partnered with the network for one of their segments and wanted to include those products for customers on our website. I’m half Nigerian/half Kenyan and wax prints are very prevalent in our culture because we wear them to parties or everyday life so I wanted to create bold and beautiful products that showcased my heritage for “The Wax Print Collection.” When we created the hats we wanted to solve the need that hats rub up against the edges and cause friction against the hair. “The Hat Collection” has a satin lined inside specifically for addressing that issue in a fashionable way.
What was the transition like taking your business from Etsy to Grace Eleyae, Inc.?
We actually sold on Etsy and our website in tandem for a while, we didn’t immediately shut down our Esty store once the website was up and running. We started with our website and worked on garnering traffic, improving our SEO, building an email list, and then started outreaching to customers at Etsy, eBay, and Amazon. They already had a platform and base we could reach out to immediately.
The advantage to having a website is you aren’t limited or restricted to the communication guidelines and rules of the third-party platforms. You can speak directly to your customers and offer new products or have to deal with the fees. The challenge is driving customers to your website because you don’t have the advantage of people naturally being on Etsy and then finding your store, you can go through advertising, Google ads,or social media. Once they visit our website one of our big focuses when we first started was capturing as many emails as possible so we could directly communicate with people interested in our brand.
What is your advice for naturalistas wanting to wear “hair protection” but not knowing where to start?
We always start with the original Slaps, but it does depend on a few factors like hair length, curl pattern, or how you sleep at night. If you are sleeping with your curly and free you could start with a satin pillowcase, headband, or turban. When my hair is in twists I love wearing the Slaps, but when it’s been in a TWA I’ll wear a turban. If you wear a pineapple and your hair gets big you could start with a headband and pair it with a satin pillowcase. All of these items are great for helping protect your hair.
Top tips to grow your business?
Every business is unique and I always say find the pool where your customers are playing in and jump in there. If your demographic is playing in Instagram/Facebook then you want to invest in social media advertising. In general you should always be growing your email list and investing in that platform. You always want to be where your customers are. Influencers can be helpful, but if they aren’t in your demographic then you could have no return. It took us a few years to hone in on who we were speaking to and finding the right tools for our business. Adapt your strategy for the business that you are in.
Best advice for other entrepreneurs…
I would have two pieces of advice: Surround yourself with people speaking life into your dream and not your fear. For me, I’m blessed with family and people around me who have helped me grow my business. You want to have mentors, partners, employees, and friends who are actively helping propel your dream forward. Another one is to keep going, I don’t attribute any of my success to serendipity and strategy. If you can find hope in any situation then you can keep going and conquer the mountain. If you have to pivot, do it, but don’t stop moving forward.
What type of legacy do you strive to leave?
Everything we have done has focused on empowerment and community. We have contributed and helped to give resources like water wells, funding education in rural villages in Africa, and providing men and women with training. The idea of empowerment and empowering people to lead in their realm of influence is a leading factor in how I drive my business.
Summer is here and we know it’s an ever present coin flip of what your curls can transform into depending on the weather, humidity, or your favorite summer activities. There aren’t many factors we can control when it comes to our hair, but using the correct styling products and tools to combat the humidity is definitely within our curl power. Maintaining your curl pattern and texture health is vital because harmful UV rays, chlorine, and saltwater all contribute to drying out your hair and damaging your curls. When you are caring for your curls during the scorching summer heat, there are several factors you want to consider such as the type of refreshers you can use to revive your hair, what types of detangling tools you can use to combat the knots, what type of accessories or products you can use to protect your hair from the elements, and how to combat the chlorine when you take a dip in the pool. We talked to a few natural hair experts who shared their favorite ways to keep their hair protected during the summer!
1. Toni Anthony
Image Source: @tonianthony
To achieve the perfect wash & go, mini twists, or twist-out this summer, there are a few things you should do. First, find a professional hairstylist and book a trim, a hydration treatment, and/or a protein treatment. The foundation to healthy and bouncy curls will always be moisturized and freshly trimmed hair!
Second, understand how to properly cleanse our hair. Every natural should have two types of shampoos – cleansing & hydrating. When shampooing your hair you should always use a cleansing shampoo such as Design Essentials Oat & Protein Deep Cleansing Shampoo. This will remove any impurities and provide a clean slate. This should be followed by a hydrating shampoo such as Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Shampoo or Joico Moisture Recovery Shampoo.
Next, you should treat your hair. The Olaplex No. 5 and the Joico Moisture Recovery Balm are miracle curl hydrators! For max hydration, you can mix the two in equal portions and place a plastic cap over your head for 15-20 min. Thank me later!
We need to understand that oil is not a moisturizer nor a sealant! Oil is a lubricant and its purpose is to provide shine and help things move along smoothly. For example, when unravelling your twist or twist out, you may place oil on your fingertips to prevent frizziness during the takedown. For that purpose it’s great but everything in moderation – excess oil can block the receipt of moisture.
So let’s break it down a bit more! When you shampoo your hair with warm water, you open the cuticle of the hair and allow for the hair to be cleansed. When you condition your hair and rinse it with cool water you are closing the cuticle layer of your hair and sealing in the moisture provided by the conditioner. By the time you place any oil on your hair your cuticle is already closed. At this point it’s just topical. Moisture can only come from water. To properly moisturize your hair, ditch the oils and raw butters and opt for moisturizers such as Moisture Milk or Almond Jai Twisting Butter by Camille Rose. The very first ingredient listed on any moisturizer will always be water.
Once your hair is hydrated your curls are ready for the world! Now you just have to choose which style you want to show off. Whether you choose a wash and go or a twist-out, Camille Rose’s Curl Maker and the Mousse Def Texture Foam by The Doux are two products that never fail me or my clients.
After following these steps to properly cleanse and moisturize your hair, grab your Tangle Tamer and watch your curls come to life!
2. Jasmine Lee
Image Source: @cosmocoolie
Right now I’ve been OBSESSED with the Surface Curls. This line is color safe, vegan, silicone and sulfate free.The shampoo and conditioner alone give you a lot of hydration. I’ve been only using the leave-in conditioning mousse and letting my hair breathe for the summer. For even more frizz control and moisture I’ll use the Curl Smoothing Creme from that line. If you want more hold I’d top it with the Firm Holding Mousse it gives great hold without crunch (and did I say moisture and hydration already?! Because YES”>
A hot tip for protecting your hair in the pool is to wet your hair and apply conditioner as a barrier from chlorine.
3. Toriah Lachell
Image Source: @hairbytoriahlachell
Summer time is a great season, but can take a toll on your hair from the humidity and heat. If you’re going to be in the sun for significant periods of time, I recommend that you keep your hair covered with a hat or scarf so the sun doesn’t dry it out. Also, keep in mind that “frizz” is just your hair looking for moisture in the air. In order to combat frizz, make sure to regularly deep condition your hair. Deep conditioning will add moisture back into your hair and help decrease the amount of frizz you experience. My favorites are Innersense Hydrating Hair Masque and Briogeo Be Gentle Be Kind Superfood Hair Mask.
4. Chissel Espinal
Image Source: @chisselbeautystudio
Swimming Tips:
Whether going to the beach or enjoying your backyard kiddie pool, Swimma caps are a must to protect your hair. From curly hair to locks, Swimma caps are made durable with luxurious satin lining.
Top Refreshers to use between wash days:
Always select a light product to refresh and avoid product buildup that leads to flat hair. My two favorites are:
First Recommendation: Botanika Beauty Mousse, to refresh and bring curls back with no water application and a quick-dry. Apply this to dry hair and scrunch. You will love this frizz-reducing mousse that nourishes hair while adding moisture and shine.
Second recommendation: Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Hydrocream Whip, this hairstyling mousse hydrates and smoothes thirsty hair and delivers long-lasting, crunch-free hold with a silky, soft finish. It contains light conditioners and natural awapuhi extract to fight and balance moisture for healthy-looking hair.
Another, favorite to protect your color from the summer heat is the Paul Mitchell Ultimate Color Repair Triple Rescue to activate triple benefits for color-treated hair. This dual-phase thermal protection spray delivers heat protection, luminous shine and outstanding condition. Apply product before stepping outside to protect against the UV rays or spray right before diffusing hair. The top phase protects against excessive heat that can damage color-treated hair and lead to dull, faded strands. The bottom phase conditions hair with Quinoa Color Repair complex, so hair looks healthy, shiny and vibrant. Leaves hair soft, smooth and manageable!
How do you keep your hair healthy in the summer? Share with us in the comments below!
When Jasmine Lawrence founded EDEN Bodyworks in 2004, she never imagined over a decade later she would have over 50 products (and counting”> a part of her natural, cruelty-free hair care brand. After experiencing a damaging hair chemical burn at age 11, Jasmine was empowered to create natural products that would restore and nurture her hair. After attending the NFTE BizCamp she officially launched EDEN Bodyworks at the tender age of 13. Not only is she a burgeoning entrepreneur, but she acquired a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and a Master’s degree in Human Centered Design and Engineering. She has worked for Microsoft, Facebook, and is currently the Project Manager on The Everyday Robot Project. As she continues to drive innovation in tech and engineering, she has ensured curlies have access to affordable natural hair and body products.
EDEN Bodyworks is inspired by the beauty and natural elements within nature that includes benefit-rich ingredients void of sulfates, parabens, and silicones.When you #DiscoverEDEN you are introduced to simple and clean beauty that works for hair types ranging from 2A-4C. Each hair collection is formulated to help with definition, breakage, detangling, protein sensitivity, and thin/fine hair. The collections all showcase their featured ingredients, the types of hairstyles you can create with the products, and influencer tutorials to walk you through the styling process. We chatted with Jasmine about the origins of EDEN Bodyworks, the latest Body collection, and how she stays engaged with her devoted customers.
Please introduce yourself and share what you’re passionate about. . .
I’m the Founder of EDEN BodyWorks, a company that makes natural hair and body care products with a mission to encourage women to live happier, healthier lives. I also serve as a Product Manager on the Everyday Robot project at X, the moonshot factory. The Everyday Robot project is building a new type of learning robot—one that can eventually learn to help everyone, every day. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from Georgia Tech and my Master’s degree in Human-Centered Design & Engineering from the University of Washington. Outside of work, I enjoy writing (mostly poetry”>, playing video games, and traveling.
Where did the name EDEN Bodyworks originate from?
The name EDEN BodyWorks is derived from the Garden of Eden from the Bible. It was a beautiful and natural place that God designed where the Earth would provide what people needed to thrive. When founding this company, my goal was to have all of our products leverage the benefits of natural ingredients to help people so I thought the name was quite fitting.
What was the formulation process like?
The formulation process starts by understanding the needs that we’ve learned that people have via research and customer feedback. Sometimes we choose to extend an existing product line or create a new one to address that use case. In the case of a new product line, we brainstorm as a team on which natural ingredients are best suited to provide the expected results as well as complimentary ingredients that can provide other benefits and improve texture, or fragrance. We experiment with many formulations for each product and carefully analyze feedback from the team as well as a select group of early adopters before selecting the final one.
Are there any challenges to having natural/cruelty-free products?
There are definitely trade-offs, especially when it comes to costs, but these are intentional decisions that we don’t take lightly.
EDEN Bodyworks has seven collections, do you have a favorite or most memorable line you’ve created thus far? Why?
While I don’t have a favorite line, the Jojoba Monoi Hair Oil is the most memorable because it was the first product I ever created. When I first formulated it I never imagined the nearly 50 products that would follow and the thousands of people who would be impacted by them. It also reminds me of how encouraging my parents were of me to pursue my passions.
How would you define #DiscoverEDEN?
Discovering EDEN is an opportunity to take what you’ve learned about yourself and what you need and exploring our brand’s offerings to find something to aid you during your healthy hair and skin journey. These offerings could include products, advice, tutorials, or even a supportive community as you grow in learning to love yourself more.
You’ve recently launched the “Body Collection,” what inspired you to branch into body products?
It was an area I was interested in exploring, but also a natural progression of the brand as we grew. We received a lot of requests for these types of products from people who have used our hair care products for many years. Many people have developed a care regimen for healthy hair and had a desire to extend that to their skin as well. I’m excited that we were able to expand our Coconut Shea line to try to meet that need.
What are some of the hardest lessons you’ve learned and what did they teach you?
The hardest lesson I’ve learned is to make sure I take care of myself. Being a leader at my own company, working in a demanding role in tech, staying close to my family, building relationships with friends, dating, and life, in general, can take a toll on a person both mentally and physically. When I was younger my strategy was to just push through until a natural time came to slow down. As I gained more and more momentum in my tech career and as EDEN BodyWorks continued to grow I realized that this method was not sustainable. I have learned to make time to take care of myself even if that comes at the expense of other opportunities in life.
How do you define success and then what keeps you motivated, especially during hard times?
Success for EDEN BodyWorks is defined by the progress we make towards our mission of creating great products that help people live happier, healthier lives. What keeps me motivated is my desire to serve people and make a positive impact on this world. When things get hard, this motivation keeps me focused on what’s really important: the people we serve. I’m grateful to have received a lot of encouragement from the community and from those who are close to me.
During these challenging times we’re seeing more people interacting online, how do you stay engaged with your customers?
My team uses social media to stay connected to, support, and encourage our followers during these times. We leverage these channels to listen and learn what people are facing and how we can best support them. We also use them to share positive stories, inspire people to keep taking care of themselves, and to celebrate others who are taking positive actions to improve our current situation.
Top tips to grow your brand’s social presence?
My top tip would be to find an authentic voice and style that fits the personality of your brand. These are essential to defining what people can expect when they engage with your brand. I also recommend finding a good balance of consistency and experimentation to keep things fresh but not entirely unexpected.
Best advice for other entrepreneurs…
My advice for other entrepreneurs would be to focus on the needs of the people you want to serve with your business and use data to inform your decision-making processes.
What legacy do you strive to leave?
I want to leave a legacy of love and service. This is at the root of the plan I have for my life and goes well beyond what I do in my career. I want to be remembered as more than just a person who started a successful business at a young age. When people think of me, I want them to think of a person who put their heart into everything they did, unselfishly supported others, and was dedicated to encouraging and creating opportunities for others to grow and thrive. I truly believe that I am using my life to change the world for good and spread love to anyone in need of it.
Image Source: @simonelesley
Oh humidity, our curls are just trying to be great, and you keep giving us more work. All naturalistas know the struggle that comes with thick moisture and suffocating air that ends up leaving our curls frizzy with flyaways in the steamy summer months. It’s unavoidable no matter how many products you put in your hair. The sun will sweat it out, the air will dry it out, and inevitably you’ll be left with a much different hairstyle than what you worked tirelessly for in your bathroom mirror. It’s a universal effect of having natural hair and while it can be frustrating, it’s better to be equipped with tools and knowledge that can help you instead of dreading the summer heat…cause it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
Fear not fellow naturalistas, we’re here to help you conquer the summer with products, styles, and tips that will keep you breezing through whatever weather comes your way.
1. Adjust Your Routine
We’ve all had to adjust our routine during quarantine whether it’s changing up your wash day, taking virtual sessions on creating your own protective style, or adapting to the ever present heat. During the summer season you have to be flexible with your styling and hair maintenance because the weather is what dictates your style. Don’t be afraid to change your wash day, when you deep condition, or even how you style your hair. We as naturalistas like to be intentional and structured with how we can for our hair, but with scorching summer days followed by humid mornings, we have to be able to adapt quickly. Your fresh wash you were rocking in the morning could change into a bun by the afternoon.
2. Use a Great Styler
While we all have our holy grails products that have become the staple of our hair routine, it’s important to keep a great styler on hand during this heat-filled season. Mousses, hair sprays, and refreshing sprays are a must-have for the summer months because they give you an added dose of moisture and hydration. They are also very convenient to use on-the-go and are filled with rich nutrients and ingredients to keep your hair fresh between wash days. Your hair can get extra dry from prolonged exposure to the heat and humid air so incorporating a styler into your routine is a must to help preserve the curls all season long. Shop the best stylers of 2020 according to the Best of the Best Awards.
3. Embrace The Frizz
We’ve been taught forever that we must tame our frizz at all costs, however…we’re in a season where you’re better off embracing the frizz instead of fighting it. Between walking outside, working out, even taking a trip to the grocery store, a few precious minutes can really take your hair from fabulous to frizz. That’s okay. Frizz happens. It’s a natural part of textured hair and during the summer it must be welcomed with open arms because it’s pretty hard to avoid otherwise. Instead of beating yourself up, feel defeated or frustrated that your wash day felt wasted or that even the time you put in styling your hair is now sweating down your forehead…shake it off and adapt. Throw your hair into a fiery fishtail braid, get high with a pineapple and use your favorite scarf, or just fall in love with your voluminous curls.
4. Wear a Protective Style
Image Source: @curlsnpearlsss
Whether you’re rocking bantu knots, a top knot, micro braids, or an updo, protective styles are the gift that keeps on giving during the fiery summer months. Protective styles are not just for between wash days, they have the ability to help protect your hair from the sun and heat. Using a protective style can help you maintain your hair health, provide stress free maintenance, and save you time from over styling your hair on the daily.The versatility of styles like pigtails, two-strand twists, fishtail braids, and are created with wigs, extensions, and weaves to create long, luxurious, and intricate styles that can be preserved for a long period of time with proper care and maintenance using satin pillowcases, bonnets, and products like coconut oil. You can usually wear a protective style for about one-two weeks which make them perfect for vacations, swimming, or just changing up your everyday look.
5. It’s Time To Accessorize
Image Source: @danishrolls
Summer is the perfect time to rock your favorite accessories because the heat allows you to get creative with your styles. Wraps, satin and silk scarves, and sun hats, are just a few accessories that will not only give your style a fashionable boost, but can protect your edges and scalp for the sun. While we’re all familiar with how the sun can affect our skin, we don’t always think about how it can burn the scalp, dry out your hair, and damage the cuticle structure. Wearing accessories is a great way to help minimize the additional damage to your hair and can help maintain your hair if you are rocking a protective style.
6. Seal Hair with an Oil
Nothing fights frizz like a good hair oil. Natural hair inherently holds less hydration than other hair types, so incorporating an oil into your summer hair arsenal is a must. Oils have the benefits of hydrating the hair, decreasing frizz, adding shine, and strengthening the follicles by reducing brittle damaged hair and split ends. What you don’t want to forget in the summertime is to use a moisturizing oil like coconut oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or a blended oil product like our BOB 2020 winner Righteous Roots RX. Moisturizing oils can penetrate the hair shaft, are best used with water or water based leave-in, and are the most useful types of oils for scalp care.
7. Prep Your Hair Before Swimming
If you decide to take a swim in a lake, pool, or waterpark this summer, it’s important to practice good hair prep before you hit the water. Most swimming pools are packed with heaps of chlorine which can be very harsh on your natural hair texture by drying it out, tangling it, and exposing you to harmful UV rays. Before you step in the pool you’ll want to use a protectant like a moisturizing oil ( as listed above”> which can help minimize the amount of chlorine that penetrates your strands. Another way to prevent tangling is to rock a protective style like a bun, braid, or flat twist to prevent chlorine or salt water from absorbing into your hair. If you do rock a protective style make sure you are keeping your scalp moisturized and protected with a cute beach hat or swim cap to reduce the amount of sun damage that occurs from overexposure to the heat.
Share any of your favorite tips and tricks for battling summer humidity in the comments!
Maya Smith is the founder and CEO of The Doux, sucka-free haircare that evokes style, charisma, and a whole lot of attitude reminiscent of 90s hip hop and nostalgia. In 2009, after being stationed in Germany with her husband, Maya Smith opened a natural hair salon that catered to women with active lifestyles. She sought to reinvigorate and reinvent the natural hair care market with products that “delivered salon results in half the time.” Maya wanted to take the guesswork out of natural hair prep by eliminating the numerous steps needed to achieve one result, so she spent two years working with a team of chemists to create the luxury haircare line The Doux. As a licensed cosmetologist and hair care educator, Maya’s perspective on beauty has been shaped through her experience as a woman of color but by the “thousands of real-life salon experiences over a 26-year career. She describes that what makes The Doux unique is “that it merges our understanding of the culture with our applied knowledge of professional hair care.”
The Doux is vivacious, charismatic, and reflects the vibrant attitude of the 90s in its packaging and clever product names. As a Queen Bey approved product, customers can look forward to using a product created by a founder who has done extensive research formulating ingredients that provide curl definition, moisture, and hydration specifically formulated for all natural hair textures. The Doux also features its own salon in Macon, Georgia with Doux professionals and experts who specialize in curly, kinky, and wavy hair types. Customers can look forward to a one of a kind experience that celebrates the beauty of their natural hair with blowouts, twist outs, rod sets, and more using The Doux products from start to finish. We chatted with Maya Smith to chat about the creative and chemical minds behind the Doux, what’s bumping on their playlist, and her legacy.
What was the formulation process like?
The formulation process was kind of a collaborative “dance” between my chemists and myself. While they had the chemical engineering background, they didn’t necessarily have experience behind the chair to understand the specific needs of my clients. In the same respect, while I’m educated in the science of cosmetology, I didn’t possess the chemical engineering background to create products that performed the way I needed them to in the salon. When developing The Doux, I was able to use my clients as my focus group to test and evaluate my products until they met my standards.
What key ingredients did you choose to implement?
At The Doux, the quality of the ingredients and the performance of the formula as a whole is what matters most to us. I’ve always stayed away from calling out botanical ingredients to market my products, because many of the claims used to sell natural hair care products have little to do with the product’s performance. The science of cosmetology and hair care steers all of my decisions with my brand.
What are the inspirations behind the creative labels of your products?
I’m a visual artist and a product of hip hop culture, street art, and nostalgia. My creative influences just tend to come out in my work. I wanted my packaging and design aesthetic to speak to my personal journey by reflecting the joy and innocence of growing up as a teenager in the 90s.
The Doux also has a signature salon in Georgia, what makes this salon experience unique?
The Doux Salon is not only about ambiance, it’s about education. Our salon experience is focused on guiding our clients through the process of caring for their hair, by first helping them understand it. An appointment in my salon is more like a therapy session. We explain the truth about hair from a scientific, factual perspective, and help to debunk the damaging myths that are stunting our guest’s progress. By the time a guest leaves, they are armed with the tools they need to care for their hair long-term.
What are some of the hardest lessons you’ve learned and what did they teach you?
The hardest part of being an entrepreneur is walking away from opportunities when they don’t serve your brand’s values. I’ve left a lot of money on the table, and have allowed some professional relationships to dissolve in order to hold on to my brand’s integrity. As difficult as it has been to decline in some instances, in the end, I’ve realized that I have dodged lots of bullets.
How do you define success and then what keeps you motivated, especially during hard times?
I believe that you can be a success long before anyone recognizes it. For me, success is about operating in my gifting. I believe that I was created to be in a lane all my own and that no one can doux what I doux the way that I doux it! If I’m doing what I’m called to do, I can’t lose. I think that if you stay in that space, your season comes around when you’re ready.
If you could go back to the beginning with the knowledge you have now, what advice would you give yourself and why?
I think I would have encouraged myself to have more confidence in my vision. When I started, there was no one in the industry doing what I was doing, especially overseas. I bet on myself and invested in my brand, but I wish I hadn’t been as emotionally affected by the lack of enthusiasm from people around me.
Best advice for other entrepreneurs…
Mind your business. Worrying about someone else’s perceived success opens the door to a lack of focus and discouragement.
What are three “Doux” centric songs that would be on your playlist right now?
- Mass Appeal – Gang Starr
- Don’t Sweat The Technique – Erik B. & Rakim
- It Ain’t Hard to Tell – NAS
What legacy do you strive to leave?
Authenticity. It’s important to me for people who see my work with The Doux to have more confidence in being themselves, not only in the way they wear their hair but in the way they express their thoughts and philosophies about beauty. The culture needs more people who are willing to go against the grain and speak on the facts, in spite of what’s being marketed to them. I feel like I’ve done that.
When you think of your hair care routine, one day comes to mind…Sunday. In the natural community we often use Sunday to rest, relax, and rejuvenate for the week and usually give our hair a much needed wash. SUNDAY ll SUNDAY founder Keenan Beasley decided to honor and celebrate the sanctity of our challenging, but glorious wash day in his cruelty free, vegan, and gluten free hair collection that focuses on the scalp. Keenan’s development and inception of SUNDAY ll SUNDAY was inspired by his love of beauty and the women in his family who juggled many roles in their day to day life. He specifically cites that his mother specifically “Managed such a full life as an athlete, working professional, mom, friend and wife and she did that seamlessly and with so much grace. Her ability to move through life with grace and vigor was beautiful and inspiring to watch.”
This seamless transition between professional and personal roles reflected the active lifestyle that many women on-the-go experience as they are challenged to maintain their natural hair. SUNDAY ll SUNDAY is specifically geared towards active women and helping them maintain moisturize hair. The ingredients are formulated to ensure that moisture is maintained on the scalp and curls with infused oils (sunflower seed, argan, coconut, peppermint”>, minerals (alternis botanical complex, banana extract”>, and herbs(ginseng and tea tree leaf extract”>. This unique blend of ingredients works to moisturize the scalp and help alleviate the unwanted itching that can come with sweat and give your curls the much needed refresh they deserve.
The brand continues to empower and challenge women with active lifestyles by showcasing how each of their products can be used between workouts, during wash days, and how to care for your hair post-workout. Whether you’re getting your sweat on at the gym, keeping centered on a yoga mat, or doing laps in the pool, SUNDAY ll SUNDAY is here to save your scalp and your edges.
What makes your brand/collection unique?
SUNDAY II SUNDAY products are designed to help extend or ease the time between washes. This inevitably creates cost savings for our consumers who feel confident caring for their hair at home and can extend the longevity of some of those more costly styles. We are a digital first business focused on self-care and athleisure beauty.
What key ingredients did you choose to implement?
Our philosophy is that healthy hair starts at the scalp. Our proprietary ingredient Alternsis Botanical Complex, is a proprietary complex that helps manage sebum production at the scalp level and also replenishes and balances moisture at the scalp.
What are three tips for protecting your hair when you are living an active lifestyle?
Moisture, moisture, moisture. Overwashing your hair can lead to dryness, breakage and overall fragile hair. We created our Moisture Balance Collection to provide that balance in maintaining the moisture levels in your hair after you sweat and improve the overall health of your scalp and hair without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
What is more important, the pre or post workout hair regimen? Why?
Great hair starts at the scalp and that’s pre workout. A great start makes for a stronger finish. Really moisturized hair is healthier and easy to manage.
What are some of the hardest lessons you’ve learned while building your brand and what did they teach you?
I had to embrace the tough times and learn to look forward to them because those tough lessons are the best ones. My ability to process those and make improvements has become a superpower.
Top tips to grow your business?
Become problem obsessed. Growth often comes from understanding and solving problems both internally and externally. My job as a founder is to remove blockage.
Best advice for other entrepreneurs…
Stay passionate and stay curious. I focus on solving problems for the consumers that we serve, which inevitably means that I’m hyper aware and sensitive to their needs. I think great brands are built off of empathy and love.
What legacy do you strive to leave?
I’m really passionate about humanizing and highlighting the beauty of the black experience to the world. I’m striving to shine a light on black culture and showcase it as a driver for global culture.
Have you tried Sunday II Sunday? Let us know your thoughts below.
Image: @wondercurl
Inspiration met innovation when Haitian immigrant Scarlett Rocourt decided to create Wonder Curl after being unable to find a product that could withstand the tough humidity in the sunshine state of Florida. As a child of the 80s Scarlett often relaxed her hair, but when she was a senior in college she read an Essence article that changed her life, by introducing her to natural hair care and from that point on, she never looked back. Over the course of her 10 year journey as a naturalista she learned to “listen to her hair and be patient with the process.” This listening included researching ingredients that would be best for all curly hair types. It was after a series of trial and error with various gel products she decided to create her best-selling “Get Set Hair Jelly” which is weightless, no crunch, humidity-proof defining gel loaded with pro-vitamin B5 to strengthen your hair.
Wonder Curl is a vegan and cruelty-free haircare line that seeks to empower curlies all over the world with products that moisturize, define, and elongate natural hair. As a Black-owned business Scarlett takes great pride in the fact that each product was formulated in her kitchen instead of a lab which motivated her to keep the ingredients eco-friendly and nourishing for any curl type. Learn more about how she created her brand, Wonder Curl and the benefits of using vegan ingredient and tips for healthy hair.
What makes your brand Wonder Curl unique?
“Because I created them myself, they are what I imagined what a Pudding” or a “Jelly” should be like. I didn’t follow any rules of thumb, just went with what felt right for my hair. I also would ask friends with different textures from 3a to 4c to test the products out for their feedback. Once everyone told me they loved the products, then I knew it would be ready for prime-time.
As a plant-based vegan who is an environmentalist, it is important that the products also reflect my values. That’s why the ingredients are vegan and we were able to source jars that are environmentally friendly.”
What was the formulation process like?
“Formulation in the beginning was the hardest. I joke and say that all curlies are chemists by default, however, since I am not a chemist, I had to learn how ingredients work with each other. I was starting from scratch, but it was also thrilling to create something that wasn’t going to be like anything else on the market.
When I was formulating the Get Set Hair Jelly, there were a lot of sleepless nights. I was obsessed with making the formula just right for all hair types.”
Wonder Curl was originally formulated in a kitchen, what was that experience like?
“First, my sister would be angry with me if I didn’t give her credit by saying I started out in her kitchen. At the time, I had very little money, so starting in the kitchen was my best option. Second, I was a terrible cook and making products is similar to baking a cake. I learned about processes, that I had to mix this with that, heat an oil to a certain temp, etc. Back then, I said that I couldn’t cook, but I knew how to make hair products!
After I was ready to work with a chemist, I showed him my formulas and he asked “How did you come up with these percentages?” I told him, “if an ingredient was good for my hair, I’d add more if it!”
What are the benefits to using vegan ingredients in your products?
“The main benefit to using vegan ingredients is knowing that I am not contributing to animal cruelty. I gave up eating meat first for moral reasons, I became fully vegan 3 years ago to maintain optimal health.
I have learned that plant-based ingredients are better for your hair than animal-based ingredients the same way they’re better for our body. They’re gentler on the hair, absorbed better and have more vitamins and minerals.”
You strive to teach customers about their natural hair through your “Get Hairducated” series, what are some top tips every naturalista should know?
“My new mantra is ‘Moisturized hair is protected hair’. No matter what style you’re doing, whether a protected style or a wash-n-go, if you’re not adding moisture to your hair by washing it on a regular basis and keeping it hydrated with good products, your hair will eventually break off.
Through my Get Hairducated series, Healthy Hair Summit, and soon my Healthy Hair Journal, I give any natural the tools they need to achieve their hair goals.”
What are some of the hardest lessons you’ve learned and what did they teach you?
“I tried working with business partners in the past and learned that this was difficult for me. I had to be honest with myself and learn to trust my gut. If something doesn’t feel right, then I need to go with that feeling. I also didn’t have too many people I could turn to when I needed that type of advice.
It is important to have other entrepreneurs you can go to when you need help or advice. I say have someone who has done it already and they’re where you want to be. Someone who is where you are that you can lean on as a support system. And finally, someone who is starting out who you can mentor because you always want to give back. Thus, the circle of life.”
How do you define success and then what keeps you motivated, especially during hard times?
“I measure success when I see repeat purchases and my customers become my biggest cheerleaders. I specifically remember one time feeling down and considering quitting my business several years ago. Suddenly, my phone rang and it was a customer wanting to tell me how my products saved her hair. That is what keeps me motivated.
When you call the Wonder Curl number, I’m the one who answers the phone. My customers are always pleasantly surprised and then we end up talking for almost an hour just about hair, health, family, you name it!”
If you could go back to the beginning with the knowledge you have now, what advice would you give yourself and why?
“I am a risk taker and somewhat impulsive. I didn’t have a strategy back then and would just go with what sounded right. When I first started, I was also working a full-time job. I would have invested in a business coach, gone to my local SBA and taken the time to create a real action plan. I finally got this together after 5 years into my business. I wish I had done that sooner, when I first started.”
Top tips to grow your business?
“First tip is not to be afraid to ask for help. You’d be surprised at how many people just want to be a part of what you’re doing because they believe in you.
Second tip is to automate as much as you can.
Finally, delegate where feasible so that you, the business owner can focus your energy on growing your business.”
What legacy do you strive to leave?
“I want to inspire black women to live their healthiest lives and have great hair. Wonder Curl products can only maintain what you grow and in order to grow healthy hair you have to start with a healthy body.
That’s why I started the Healthy Hair Summit in April and had my sister who is also a plant-based vegan as well as a physician with a private practice in Florida be one of the speakers. I wanted to help everyone who tuned into her talk to make that connection. I am planning another Healthy Hair Summit this fall with more speakers and more information.”
Shop Wonder Curl’s entire collection here including the Wonder Curl Curl Control Styling Lotion , Wonder Curl Restoring Hair Treatment, Wonder Curl Sealing Hair Butter, and the Wonder Curl Detoxifying Clay Cleanser.
