In the context of modelling my reaction to the word ‘hair’ or ‘wig’ is usually ‘I am in’, I became acquainted to wearing what the creative team had in mind. Nevertheless, how are you selling hair to Africans but not investing in branded storefronts concepts for Africa? Don’t you think this mass launch requires a touch of organisation?
Last year, when I had the privilege of visiting the South of France, not Saint Tropez but Le Gosier, I was introduced to Kreyol food, Caribbean vibes, and new hair products. During this getaway I also realised L’Oréal hair segment showed disappointing numbers. Efforts to deliver hair bundles to Issa Rae were proven surprisingly faked. A supply chain I wasn’t expecting published or celebrated. Because six percent growth [a decline from 7%] isn’t a number to jubilee on after stating on camera “can’t you see the hair I am working?”
My takeaway from this holiday is the HAIR segment is incomplete without the mention of hair products such as hair masks and serums. When prepping the hair for a frontal, a good hair serum is a game changer. Before we begin to harness the benefits of hair masks and serums tell me, how many frontal closures do you want to work? At what basis? Oosyn.com [Contact Us button] will collect your thoughts. Since our current Equality Act does not include explicit protection for Afro-textured hair under international laws we recommend masks and serums for short and long afros.
When growing out their afro hair black women may face these three facts: there are no affordable bundles, relaxers will disrupt our natural 4C type, and petroleum gels don’t promote hair growth. Specially, when formulated for SAPMENA only. I am yet to discover petroleum gels in Brazilian, British or American products. Water remain amongst the first five ingredients on masks and serum formulas.
Yet, have we ever asked why Brazilians, British and Americans opted-out from petroleum gels? And why black Africans discard hair masks and serums in desire for pattern disrupting creams? Quality could be the answer. Face it, olive oil relaxer isn’t the best product in the market for Afro. Black women in different countries have found water based formulas and plant-based proteins satisfactory for moisture and hair growth. Honey masks, avocado masks and keratin treatments are formulated to keep the hair moisturised during hot summers without modifying natural 4C patterns. Thus, fill-it in a way that I can be contented, plant-based protein masks.
While we couldn’t bring on a hair stylist to this post (we thought he mainly plays with blonde icing for our second display and goes by a professional name of Hair Colourist), we were able to list few and exciting brands the oosyn team consider are attainable for black women.
NECESSAIRE The Scalp Serum Fragrance-Free. This water-light serum is infused with a 5% Biomimetic Peptide Blend to support hair growth and visibly minimize thinning.
Botanical Repair strengthening overnight serum by Aveda. A plant-powered repair serum strengthens hair while you sleep. Packaged as a full-size leave-in treatment.
Philip Kinsley Overnight Scalp Barrier Serum. Hydrating and oh-so relaxing, the serum is the perfect consistency and doesn’t leave your hair feeling oily or greasy.
Olaplex Nº.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask. A highly concentrated reparative mask that adds shine, smoothness & body while providing intense, weightless moisture for visibly healthier hair.
TRESemmé Keratin Deep Smoothing Mask.
Actiforce Repairing Haircare Mask by Activilong. A good choice due to its affordable price. It is certainly an option for its active ingredients and luxurious fragrance.
Use masks and serums once a week or whenever your afro needs a nourishing boost. Apply masks before going under the hooded too. Specially, fragrance free products. Get use to using masks and serums as part of a salon habit. And if you feel once a week isn’t enough for your hair, oosyn recommends going in for more serums to keep the scalp hydrated.
Are you a type to grow your afro in a protective way? Then, go ahead to discover what colours fit with your skin and undertone. A second display is not for every internet user, therefore, have a hair colourist involved on the frontal-lifting. Cuts and colour correcting are part of a frontal-lifting process. Customise these bundles to match the colour of your eyes, your undertone or your winter colours. Your second display looks better when realistic and ready for the next day.
When paying attention to eco-friendly products let us know what masks and serums are selling in your location. We will review them for you.