Never in a million years would I have imagined that my first small business feature would be embraced so widely, and so unanimously supported by everyone. I think it’s pretty safe to say that the small businesses featured all share three amazing qualities:
1. They produce high quality, effective products
2. They use superior ingredients with proven benefits
3. They care about making natural hair healthy
Not to mention, all the owners themselves are natural and use their own product as living proof. Without further delay, here are 9 more amazing, super high quality small business brands worthy of our support. They deliver amazing products with impressive ingredient lists, and even more impressive results.
Note: Just like part I, this list is by NO means conclusive. There are tons more, and I would love to hear from you all exactly who they are 🙂 In fact, there is a part III coming. And this list is in no particular order!
1. Qhemet Biologics
The Backstory: Back in 2004, Felis Butler began her mission to cater to kinkier textures of hair. She believed that naturals in the 4c category had become the most frustrated with this texture, even though there was no reason to be. Pulling from her background as a historian, she was inspired by indigenous ancestors who embraced their hair in all of its textures. With the right combination of ingredients, Butler was able to create a rich, multipurpose, top of the line brand of products for the ingredient-conscious natural. She believes that the combination of the right products, a supportive community and the rejection of negative self talk will help Black women come full circle.
Benefits: Qhemet Biologics was the first natural haircare line to feature MSM, which is essential for hair growth and health. QB is also shea butter-free, vegetarian,cruelty-free, eco-friendly, and formulated specifically to address the needs of those struggling with dry, tangle-prone hair. The products also conform to the stricter EU and Japanese cosmetic saftey standards, which means they do not contain mineral oil, silicones, sls, phthalates, parabens, dmdh hydantoin, triclosan, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, diazolidinyl urea, or imidazolidinyl urea.
Best Sellers: The hands-down best seller is the Amla & Olive Heavy Cream ($17), a favorite among those who find it difficult to retain moisture in hair. Along with the Heavy Cream, I found a new home in the Aethiopika Hydrate & Twist Butter ($14) and the Burdock Root Buttercream ($16). Qhemet Biologics definitely delivers on the promise of moisture with each product. I didn’t need to refresh, re-apply, or anything between washes. And a little bit most certainly goes a long way. What I found to be incredible was that even though my natural hair was THOROUGHLY moisturized, it didn’t weigh down my heat damage and make it look like wet noodles. In fact, I got a pretty amazing twist-out when I wasn’t even planning to (sometimes the best hair days happen that way). Products that are able to cater to multiple textures are definitely a winner in my book. By the way, Aethiopika Hydrate & Twist Butter is a miracle end sealer, and slicks edges!
Where to Buy: Qhemet Biologics is available online at www.qhemetbiologics.com, and in a number of stores across more than 20 states. There is some international availability as well! Click here to see if there is one near you.
2. Soultanicals
Backstory: Inspired by her love of cultures, traditions, and the natural richness of African design, Ayo Ogun-McCants created Soultanicals afro-vegan hair and body products. The Soultanicals line features products with botanical ingredients, bright designs and fun names, inspired by Ayo’s own earthy, fun, and afro-original nature. Soultanicals products are made for naturals of all textures and lengths who want to experience high-quality handmade natural products, while promoting self-love and wellness.
Benefits: Soultanicals’ products are handmade fresh with 100% botanical (vegan) ingredients. They do not include phthalates, parabens, sulfates, petroleum, mineral oil, glycols, or other controversial ingredients. The products are all 100% toxin-free, cruelty-free, vegan, and do not contain artificial preservatives, fragrances, or dyes.
Best Sellers: Soultanicals hallmark products include the Knot Sauce Coil Detangler ($13), Marula-Muru Moisture Guru ($14), Hair Sorrell Knappylicious Kink Drink ($12), and Fluffalicious Curl Nutricious ($14). Before I get in to which products I adore, I just wanted to stop and recognize that EVERYTHING in this line smells AMAZING. There is a light, sweet aroma that makes you feel good about using it. Positive vibes do come in a jar. The Knot Sauce detangles like a dream, while still managing to be lightweight and moisturizing (a top pick for my pre-poo/detangle time). The Fluffalicious Curl Nutricious defies logic, proving to be incredibly moisturizing but feeling super lightweight. It wasn’t mentioned by I absolutely ADORE the Curl Blaze Hair Glaze ($13)Â – it makes for an amazing wash n’ go. I have so much more to say about the Soultanicals line…stay tuned for an in-depth review.
Where to Buy: I really wish Soultanicals was available in my local Sprouts or Whole Foods, because I’d be there right now to pick up some more Curl Blaze Hair Glaze. Until that day comes (please, Jesus), you can I can stock up on Soultanicals goodies online at www.soultanicals.com. If you’re interested in trying out Soultanicals, take advantage of the exclusive 20% off coupon for BGLH and Mane Objective readers! Enter SOULMANE20 at checkout!!!
