By Claudia Cole
When it comes to Afro-textured hair care, refining your regimen may seem like a constant and evolving task. Although Afro hair is one of the strongest hair types due to its tensile strength, it is also the most vulnerable to breakage. As shown in our editor’s editor’s natural hair journey, consistent care is essential. However, with many harmful products lingering on high street shelves, it’s hard to know where to start.
A new study has found that hair products for Black women contain mixtures of harmful chemicals. Around 72% of products contain parabens and diethyl phthalate, with 84% of detected chemicals not listed on the label.
Anita Grant, founder of skin and hair care brand of the same name, is one of many victims who have dealt with this issue. When sharing her story, she explained:
"My hands had been blistered by a lotion that contained propylene glycol (propane-1,2-diol). This ingredient is used widely as a humectant in hair care products, car antifreeze, and is generally referred to as safe, just not safe for me. With hands throbbing and scalp tingling, my thoughts were clear, no more off the shelf cosmetics, for me, ever!"
Luckily, we’re here to save you all the trouble of searching through the high-street for safe products. Following our list of natural shampoos and conditioners, we want to ensure you have plenty of options.
Whether you’re looking for a leave-in conditioners, or oils to seal in the moisture, here are our top natural brands for Afro-textured hair.
1. Afrocenchix
The awarding-winning Afro hair-care brand, Afrocenchix believes the little things in life should be simple. This is why their products are made from natural and organic ingredients, formulated by UK scientists to treat, and nourish Afro-textured hair. Co-founders, Rachael and Joycelyn carefully ensure that all their products are free from common allergens including artificial fragrances.
Not only are all their ingredients ethically sourced, but their packaging is also 100% recyclable. Being the first Afro hair brand to be stocked in major retailers such as Holland & Barrett, you can trust that each product is filled with goodness.
2. Anita Grant
After her bad experiences with shelf cosmetics, Anita Grant decided to tap into mother nature’s hidden treasures. Her fantastic range contains raw, wholesome, plant-based ingredients such as oils, herbs, butters, floral water and many more. However, her most cherished stapled includes unrefined cocoa butter. This is perfect for Afro-textured hair as it is a natural antioxidant that strengthens hair and locks in moisture.
All of her hand-made formulas use ingredients sourced from fair-trade farmers & organic suppliers, giving back to the global community for the greater good. Above all, each product will lovingly restore your hair’s natural texture all with the power of mother nature.
3. Jim + Henry
Proving that less is more, Jim + Henry craft the finest products exclusively for Afro and curly hair types. They believe in using quality ingredients to deliver stunning results. Their first and most popular product, Eight, is the UK’s first leave-in conditioner comprised of only eight ingredients. The rest of the range consists of ten or less non-harmful ingredients, rich in nourishment to soften each tendril.
In Addition, their products are packaged in medical-grade glass, amber jars. Therefore, their formula is protected from photo damage. This ensures you get the most use out of their incredible range!
4. The Afro Hair & Skin Co
Created by natural beauty and wellness expert Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka, Afro Hair & Skin Co. offers a range of effective skin and hair products. After developing her powerful line of holistic products over the years, Ibi aims to eliminate all types of common toxin that affect women’s health and wellbeing.
Using British grown ingredients, the brand’s products are naturally sourced and formulated to improve the overall health and look of your hair and skin. After recognising the need for a more ethical and sustainable approach, Afro Hair & Skin Co. continue to provide all-natural alternatives with the help of local artisans.
5. Flora & Curl
From loosely curled hair to tight coils, this brand uses nature as the ultimate source of hydration. They believe that healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. Their potent formula is a simple way to luscious curls as it restores each strand and the scalp to its natural balance. Flora & Curl combines the most moisturising botanical ingredients such as Rosewater, Jasmine lavender, honey, and Aloe. Furthermore, their natural, cold-pressed oils and butters are obtained from local suppliers. Due to this, their mixtures are made in small batches to make sure the freshness is long-lasting.
Much like our skin, our hair deserves the ultimate care. With these safe brands to choose from, you won’t have to compromise your wellbeing anymore. So, show your hair the love it deserves and give these brands a try.
Already have a favourite? Let us know your go-to hair brand in the comments below.
Claudia Cole
Claudia is a film graduate and writer from London. While an enthusiast for books and all things screen related, she is a passionate advocate for mental health & wellbeing.
