How did this all start? |
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I used to be at peace with all the stereotypes about textured hair; i.e., "'black hair,' does not grow," being a big one. I, like many, did not know any better or that there was more to want; to strive for. One day, I thought to ask myself "But why?" Not only to understand, but to research exactly what it was that a lot of people, myself included, were doing or using that may contribute to this more so household theory. After surviving the notorious 'unintentional perm' years, just above shoulder length was the longest I could maintain. I desperately wanted to know if there was another way, and that if there was, how my journey could assist others, too.
At this time, I was around 18. I had always been very interested in sciences, biology, chemistry, etc. while also being raised by a mother who implemented and encouraged all things holistic. We were that family that had a herb for everything! So, why not our hair? Truthfully, growing and keeping a head of hair just was not the most resonating factor my family was known for, but maybe there was more to ponder. I spent lots of time on forums and on websites that cater to explaining what certain chemicals can or cannot do to hair, skin, etc... short term and long. I was not shocked that a lot of the common ingredients used in very commonly used textured hair products that are most readily available were linked to follicle clogging, were carcinogenic, and overall repelled and prevented absorption and moisture.
Most of my life hair health had always felt like 2 steps forward and 3 steps back, so it made sense that what I was using was offering at best, limited results or a mirage of them. I was a broke college student at this point but started modifying my regimen and products based on what I was learning and experiencing. And to stay current, I was also sharing this information in hair groups I joined whenever I saw questions and problems that mimicked my own.
Soon enough, other people were getting better growth, manageability, and hair health by modifying their hair regimens in similar ways and were seeking my input for all things skin and hair. This started the process of me doing online consultation for many on a daily basis for a variety of textures, as well as catering to all the textured heads of hair in my personal life and on campus once word spread or inquiries were made about my own progress. I had a lot of emotional support (and pressure!) from the people I was consulting to make my own product line eventually. I was almost a little annoyed at such a request, seeing as how much time, investment, trial, error, experimenting, and effort such a feat could take and they demanded it so nonchalantly. So, you guessed it... I started research again. I started with a complex whipped shea butter, doubling as a hair and skin item. And a couple years later, after much experimentation and toiling with chemistry, emollients, and broad spectrum preservatives, I have tweaked to be what I truly believe are honest and nutritious additions to natural hair regimens for a variety of textures.
And now that I am a formulator of many good things, nothing gets in my way of creating wholesome and nourishing self care products that I firmly believe in.
At this time, I was around 18. I had always been very interested in sciences, biology, chemistry, etc. while also being raised by a mother who implemented and encouraged all things holistic. We were that family that had a herb for everything! So, why not our hair? Truthfully, growing and keeping a head of hair just was not the most resonating factor my family was known for, but maybe there was more to ponder. I spent lots of time on forums and on websites that cater to explaining what certain chemicals can or cannot do to hair, skin, etc... short term and long. I was not shocked that a lot of the common ingredients used in very commonly used textured hair products that are most readily available were linked to follicle clogging, were carcinogenic, and overall repelled and prevented absorption and moisture.
Most of my life hair health had always felt like 2 steps forward and 3 steps back, so it made sense that what I was using was offering at best, limited results or a mirage of them. I was a broke college student at this point but started modifying my regimen and products based on what I was learning and experiencing. And to stay current, I was also sharing this information in hair groups I joined whenever I saw questions and problems that mimicked my own.
Soon enough, other people were getting better growth, manageability, and hair health by modifying their hair regimens in similar ways and were seeking my input for all things skin and hair. This started the process of me doing online consultation for many on a daily basis for a variety of textures, as well as catering to all the textured heads of hair in my personal life and on campus once word spread or inquiries were made about my own progress. I had a lot of emotional support (and pressure!) from the people I was consulting to make my own product line eventually. I was almost a little annoyed at such a request, seeing as how much time, investment, trial, error, experimenting, and effort such a feat could take and they demanded it so nonchalantly. So, you guessed it... I started research again. I started with a complex whipped shea butter, doubling as a hair and skin item. And a couple years later, after much experimentation and toiling with chemistry, emollients, and broad spectrum preservatives, I have tweaked to be what I truly believe are honest and nutritious additions to natural hair regimens for a variety of textures.
And now that I am a formulator of many good things, nothing gets in my way of creating wholesome and nourishing self care products that I firmly believe in.