I’ve always loved and celebrated black hair. Unless you are looking for them, hair industry trends are sometimes easy to miss. I have been in the industry for over 10 years and it’s been fun to watch how much the industry has evolved.
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Let’s look at 8 factors that have affected people’s relationships with their hair over the past decade.

Natural Hair Movement: In the last 10 years, there has been a significant and empowering shift towards embracing natural hair textures within Nigeria, and the black community in general. The natural hair movement has gained momentum, encouraging individuals to wear their hair in its natural state and promoting self-acceptance. This movement has led to increased demand for products and services catering to natural hair care and styling.

Expanded Product Range: The beauty industry has responded to the natural hair movement by offering a broader range of products specifically designed for black hair textures. This includes an array of natural hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments, styling creams, and oils formulated to cater to the unique needs of curly, coily, and kinky hair.

Inclusive Representation: There has been growing recognition of the importance of diverse representation in beauty campaigns, advertisements, and product offerings. More brands have featured models and influencers with various black hair textures, shades, and styles. This shift towards inclusive representation reflects a more accurate depiction of the diversity within the black community.

Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses: The past decade has seen a surge in black-owned beauty businesses and brands. Entrepreneurs within the black community have been creating products that specifically address the needs of black hair and skin, often incorporating natural ingredients and cultural elements into their offerings.

Online Influence and Education: Social media platforms have played a significant role in driving awareness, education, and trends within the black hair beauty industry. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have become spaces for individuals to share tutorials, product reviews, and personal hair care journeys. This has empowered individuals to learn about proper hair care practices and discover new styling techniques.

Accessibility of Information: With the rise of online platforms, information about black hair care has become more accessible. This has empowered individuals to make informed decisions about their hair care routines, product choices, and styling methods.

Shift in Beauty Standards: There has been a growing push to challenge traditional beauty standards that often favor Eurocentric ideals. This shift has led to greater acceptance and celebration of black hair textures and styles as beautiful and desirable.

Mainstream Recognition: Some mainstream beauty brands have started to acknowledge the importance of catering to diverse hair textures and tones by expanding their product lines and advertising efforts.

I see a not-so-distant future where black people everywhere are super proud to embrace all their options as they navigate the world of hair beauty. As always, it’s been fun to help women through this journey. I’m personally hopeful for what the future holds.
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