Meet Hair Pros Revolutionizing Hairstyling
Hair and Black identity have always been closely intertwined. From a young age, the most defining adolescent memories of many Black children can be linked back to days at the salon or getting your hair washed in the kitchen sink. Throughout history, colonialism, and as Western cultures promoted white-washed beauty ideals, altering Afro-textures as a form of assimilation and means of societal survival was the status quo.
But in recent generations, that’s begun to shift, with important work being done to strip away the negative stereotypes around Black hair and provide room for the Black community to stay true to their heritage, unapologetically. Embracing natural hair goes beyond superficiality; it is freedom, defiance, and pride all at once. Artists are even taking notice, viewing hairstyles as a form of art.
Professional hairstylists are breaking boundaries and bringing their artistic visions to life through hair. They are celebrating Blackness, culture, tradition, and the versatility of natural hair textures. With their work being seen on red carpets, magazine covers, ad campaigns, and runways worldwide, they are elevating their craft to a fine art form, rejecting the narrow-minded beauty ideals that once defined the industry.
Individuals like Christina Rendall, founder of House of Crown, Lacy Redway, known for her work with celebrities such as Tessa Thompson and Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Fesa Nu, a self-proclaimed “hair poet,” are just a few of the Black hairstylists making waves in the industry. Their unique approaches to hairstyling showcase the beauty and diversity of Black hair.
Vernon François, known for his work with Lupita Nyong’o and other A-list celebrities, emphasizes the importance of embracing individuality and breaking free from trends when it comes to hair. Charlotte Mensah draws inspiration from her Ghanaian heritage and creates high-quality, editorial-worthy hairstyles that empower individuals.
Agnes Ashi, whose elevated braiding techniques have been showcased in magazines and on celebrities like Marsai Martin, and Helena Koudou, who sees hair braiding as a form of art rooted in traditional African hairstyles, are also making significant contributions to the industry.
These Black hairstylists are not only changing the way we perceive Black hair but are also redefining beauty standards and showcasing the true versatility and artistry of natural hair textures. As the industry continues to diversify, one thing is clear; Black hair is not just a trend, it is a powerful form of self-expression and art that deserves to be celebrated and embraced authentically and freely.
