The natural hair movement is about more than just hair. It's about embracing and celebrating your natural curls, coils, and kinks. It's about empowering women of color to love and appreciate their hair in its natural state, without the need for chemicals or relaxers.

In the past, natural hair was often seen as unprofessional or unattractive. Women felt the pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards and straighten their hair. But with the rise of the natural hair movement, this is changing. Women are now embracing their natural curls and rocking them proudly, no matter what the texture or pattern.

The natural hair movement has given rise to a wealth of resources and products designed specifically for natural hair. From hair care products to tutorials and forums, there are now countless ways to learn about and care for natural hair.

One of the key aspects of the natural hair movement is promoting healthy hair practices. This means avoiding harsh chemicals and heat, and embracing natural ingredients and techniques that nourish and protect the hair. Women are encouraged to listen to their hair and find what works best for them, whether that's a certain hair care routine, styling method, or product.

The natural hair movement has also been a source of community and support for women of color. Through online forums and meetups, women can connect with others who share their hair journey and offer advice and encouragement.

Overall, the natural hair movement is about empowering women to embrace their unique beauty and celebrating the diversity of hair textures and patterns. Whether you're a long-time natural or just starting your hair journey, this movement is about loving and taking care of your hair, and feeling confident and beautiful in your own skin.

Okay so you want healthier hair but, don’t know where to start? We’ve all been here and some of us choose to go natural while some might want to try something else. Well, what’s something else? Can you have healthier hair without going natural? The answer is yes if of course, you can! One thing […]

Read more

Black hair requires a special type of care, especially when it comes to moisture retention and avoiding breakage and damage. Whether you have curly, straight, or natural hair, a consistent hair care routine is key to achieving healthy locks. In this guide, we'll cover the best products and techniques for hydrating and nourishing your hair.

Moisture is key to preventing dry, brittle hair. A deep conditioning treatment can help revive your hair, while a leave-in conditioner can provide ongoing hydration. Look for products that are gentle and formulated for black hair, as harsh ingredients can strip your hair of its natural oils.

Protective styles like braiding and twisting, as well as wigs and weaves, can be a great way to give your hair a break from daily styling and heat damage. However, it's important to make sure that these styles are not causing any undue stress on your hair, which can lead to breakage.

If you're looking for the best products for black hair care, consider ones that are specifically formulated for African American hair. These products can help you achieve the right balance of moisture and nourishment, helping you to avoid common hair problems like frizz and breakage.

Incorporating gentle techniques and high-quality products into your hair care routine can help you achieve your best hair yet. With the right approach, you can enjoy healthy, hydrated locks that look and feel their best.

African American women are known for their unique hair textures and styles. However, maintaining healthy hair can sometimes be a challenge due to a variety of factors such as genetics, hair treatments, and lifestyle choices. To promote both a healthy head of hair and a healthy body, it is important to focus on nutrition, specifically on getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals.

Biotin, also known as Vitamin H, is essential for hair growth and can be found in foods such as eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes. Studies have shown that biotin supplementation can increase the rate of hair growth in people with biotin deficiency (1). In addition to promoting healthy hair, biotin is also important for metabolism and maintaining healthy skin and nails.

Vitamin D is also crucial for hair growth and is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin" because it can be synthesized in the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. However, many African American women may be deficient in Vitamin D due to darker skin pigmentation, which makes it harder for the skin to produce Vitamin D from sunlight exposure. Foods rich in Vitamin D include salmon, mushrooms, and fortified dairy products.

Iron is another important mineral for hair health. Iron helps to transport oxygen to the hair follicles, which is essential for healthy hair growth. Iron-deficiency anemia can lead to hair loss, so it is important to make sure that you are getting enough iron in your diet. Good sources of iron include red meat, poultry, and leafy greens.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect the hair and scalp from damage caused by free radicals. It also helps the body absorb iron, which is important for hair growth. Foods high in Vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers.

Zinc is another mineral that is important for hair health. Zinc helps to regulate hormone levels and promotes hair growth. Foods high in zinc include oysters, beef, and chickpeas.

In addition to the vitamins and minerals mentioned above, it is also important to make sure that you are getting enough protein in your diet. Protein is the building block of hair and is essential for hair growth. Good sources of protein include chicken, fish, and beans.

It is important to note that while these vitamins and minerals can be helpful in promoting healthy hair and body, it is always best to consult with a doctor or a registered dietitian before starting any new supplement regimen. They can help to determine if you have any deficiencies and recommend the best course of action for you. 

In conclusion, a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, Vitamin D, iron, Vitamin C, zinc, and protein, can help to promote healthy hair and a healthy body for African American women. By incorporating these essential nutrients into your diet, you can help to ensure that your hair is strong, shiny, and full of life.

References:

1. Bhaskaran, N., & Ramesh, G. (2017). Biotin: A review of biotin as a supplement with potential uses in dermatology. Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery, 10(2), 86-90.

KeraVada Founder Uses Battle With Cancer to Fuel Brand’s Post-Pandemic Success

Demetrion Ware is the founder of KeraVada, a natural hair care line that has seen immense success in the aftermath of the pandemic. In an interview with The Defender Network, Ware discussed how his battle with cancer helped to inspire him during this difficult time.  

During Cancer Treatment

Demetrion Ware Today

Article Excerpt 

Very few millionaires trace their start back to a desire to improve the health outcomes of African American people. But Demetrion Ware, founder of the haircare giant KeraVada does. And though Ware fought through and overcame his own serious health challenges, his health-focus began long before his own battle.

Interestingly, Ware found that Black women looking for quality haircare products had no interest in his line’s health focus. So, he switched up on the marketing message, but maintains his commitment to waking the Black community up to accessing healthier lives...

Full Article: The Defender Network