Black women in the U.S. have proven that wearing their natural hair is more than just a trend. In 2016, 71 percent of black adults in the U.S. wore natural hair at least once, according to data from the research firm Mintel.
Anyone who wears their hair natural -- which is most simply defined as hair that has not been chemically processed -- knows that the transition can require a complete overhaul of one's beauty routine, new shampoos, new conditioners and new styling products. Last year, black consumers in the U.S. spent about $2.56 billion on hair care products.
While many of the products designed for textured hair began with small businesses, in recent years, some of the biggest names in beauty have entered the natural hair market. While it has created more options, it has also added to the confusion. Here, just in time for the holidays, are some of the best gifts for women with natural hair.
Grace Eleyae Slap Cap, $30, graceeleyae.com: Hair stays protected, moisturized and tangle free with this satin-lined Slap Cap. The Cap comes in a range of colors and the hip styling means it can be worn as a protective sleep hat or outdoors as a quick fix for hair.
Colour : For the busy naturalista, an in-home hair service is the perfect gift. Atlanta-based Colour, the hair service app for women of color, allows you to give the gift of great hair. Add a credit to the recipient's account (Colour will create one if it doesn't exist) and she can use it toward any Colour service. Colour will email the recipient within 24 hours of purchase.
PuffCuff Family Pack, $50, thepuffcuff.com: Contain curls with care using the PuffCuff, which is now an Atlanta-based business. Give your curly friends a combo pack which includes a range of cuff sizes.
CurlKit, $20 per month (plus $5 shipping), curlkitshop.com: Sign your favorite curly girl up for this exclusive box designed for women with curly hair. For $25 a month including shipping she'll get samples of products designed for natural and curly hair. Gift subscriptions range from $75 for 3 months to $150 for 6 months.
Miss Jessies' Curly Tee, $20 at missjessies.com: State your feelings with a t-shirt from one of the pioneers of the curly hair revolution. The "Curly" t-shirt from Miss Jessie's is perfect for proud curly girls.
Jane Carter Curls To Go Collection, $11 - $12, janecartersolution.com: A new wash and go collection lets you wear your coils and curls with minimal styling. Buy it online or locally at Target stores in Austell, Fayetteville and East Point.
Q-Redew Handheld Steamer, $70, qredew.com: Use the Q-Redew steamer on wet or dry hair to moisturize, rejuvenate and detangle curls. It can be used as part of your normal styling routine as a daily refresher for hair.
Satin Pillow Cover Set, The Vermont Country Store, $17 - $20, vermontcountrystore.com: Keep hair smooth and tangle-free with a satin pillow case in standard or queen sizes.
Camille Rose Lavender collection, $7.99 - $12.99 at camillerosenaturals.com : Get Lavender Shaken Hair Spritzer, Lavender Crush Defining Gel and Lavender White Clay Gel Custard for great looking hair along with the relaxing scent of lavender.
Amika Polished Perfection Straightening Brush, $120 at Sephora : This thermal straightening brush makes it easier to smooth hair in just a few strokes. The brush helps hair retain moisture and uses Double Negative Ion Technology —the maximum in negative ions— which leaves hair frizz and static free.
