Actress Nicole Ari Parker of Broadway’s Streetcar Named Desire, University of Pennsylvania professor Anthea Butler, cultural critic Joan Morgan, and CurlyNikki.com founder Nikki Walton join Melissa Harris-Perry as they discuss the politics of hair and the industry of hair products for Black women.
Some interesting points are that according to 2007 numbers, the Black hair products industry was estimated at $185 million dollars. Now I know that number is significantly under-counted. There has been a tremendous growth in the demand to go natural since that time. Also, an interesting point is that more than one third of the $185 million goes to the two largest manufacturers of products for Black hair — L’Oreal and Alberto Culver.
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In terms of distribution of products for Black hair, the Korean domination of the Black hair care industry via the Beauty Supply stores that flourish across urban America has been well documented.
This is not the type of “diversity” that is beneficial to African Americans or Black people in 2012. It’s going to take some new approaches to better leverage our consumer dollars and participate more equitably in the business of Black hair.
What say you?
I have personally taken on what is considered a ‘hair-growth journey’…which more and more women of color have drastically resorted to-in the ultimate hope of attaining, and experiencing the ‘burried truth’ concerning their natural hair’s potential. It is a journey of discovery and joy, that has particularly overwhelmed me after so many years of ‘hair self-destruction!’ In viewing all of the inspirational videos of younger ladies, who have chronicled their own hair growth/hair health diaries-has illustrated for me-an improved love and respect for the care of my own hair!
I am currently growing my hair as if it had been one of the easiest feats to accomplish! I do, however, vigorously question the use of certain brands and products, which either contains the same sorts of chemicals (alcohols); or, these ARE NOT products distributed by the A.A. community. In deciding on a planned hair growth regimen, I have adopted the use of five (5), essentially 100% pure ‘products’..which will serve as primary sources..as I continue my hair growth journey, to lengths never ever realized before.
To remedy the issue of ‘our own’..means to distribute our own lines of 100% Pure Product!
Try products by:
Blacksolutions.com
I abosolutely love to support online hair care businesses founded by African-American women. One of my favs is Smell Goods ’98 by Itiel. She has a great line of natural products that are really do smell great and that are re-purposable.
I particularly love her perfumed products that are made just for young girls. This has enabled me to finally allow my young girls to wear perfume with out worrying it will cause an allergic reaction.
It is so vitally important for us to be aware of what black business owners are doing, not just support for their businesses, but also showing support for the business networks that many of them frequent on ning and on Facebook.
So, that’s my two cents, and I hope that helps someone.
~Donna Marie Johnson