1. Ruka
Co-founded by Tendai Moyo and Ugo Agbai, Ruka is the answer to many Black women dream: Finding hair extensions designed for their specific texture without the toxic chemicals (and itchiness) that usually goes with it!
Ruka worked with a team of Black scientists to develop hair extensions that meet the needs of curly and coily hair, while following three key values: Sustainability, Quality and Accessibility.
Synthetic Hair
Do you like to switch up hairstyles on a regular basis? Do you think your hair should reflect your every mood?
If you're that girl, then Synths®1 and Braid It are made for you! Free from plastic and biodegradable, Ruka synthetic hair are made from the highest collagen fibre available. Their protein-based synthetic extensions look and behave like real hair, meaning you can wash and use heat on your extensions. A great option for those who like to be flexible with their hairstyles without breaking the bank.
Virgin Human Hair
If you are into wigs or weaves, you know that the key ingredient to a good install is quality hair.
Ruka Texture Match bundles are 100% Virgin Human Hair and are ethically sourced in Southeast Asia. You can wash, apply heat or dye your extension safely. Just pick the texture you want - silky, kinky or pressed - and get them to your trusted hairdresser.
Why We❤️ Ruka:
The guilt-free pleasure of switching hairstyle without damaging our scalp and the planet!
2. Naiga Naturals
Naiga Naturals was born in 2017 when founder Naiga Kibuuka realised that many products claiming to be natural were actually full of chemicals and didn't work for her Afro hair and skin.
Naiga began to make her own products using natural butters and essential oils. The rest is history!
Whipped Body Butter
Forget about dry and cracked skin with Naiga Naturals' vitamin-rich Whipped Body Butters. Formulated with natural extracts including (the very rare!) Raw Shea Nilotica, Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Oil and Mango Butter, they are a great addition to your daily routine.
The body butters are 100% organic and suitable for sensitive skin. They each have a specific composition to address different skin conditions such as stretch marks, rosacea or dermatitis.
Body Balm
Naiga Naturals Body Balm is a natural alternative for Vaseline. The Body Balm contains Organic Beeswax, known to help many skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Why We ❤️ Naiga Naturals:
The (certified) organic Shea Nilotica, smoother and more creamy than other shea butters. Try it and see how it melts into your skin!
3. Shades of Melanin
We can't repeat it enough, Black people do need sunscreen. Contrary to popular beliefs, people of colour can get diseases linked to sun exposure.
However, finding a sun protector suitable for darker skin is challenging. That's why Andrea Stewart, Shades of Melanin CEO, decided to create her own sunscreen products, with melanin in mind.
Sunscreen Lotion & Lip Protector
Shades of Melanin lotions and lip protectors provide SPF30 protection from the harmful UVB & UVA rays, while keeping the skin moisturised and glowing. No more white shade after applying!
Available scented or fragrance free, Shades of Melanin products contain natural extracts such as Jojoba Seed Oil, Aloe Vera and Cocoa Seed Butter and are suitable for sensitive skins.
Why We ❤️ Shades of Melanin:
Sun protection minus the chalky white cast, what's not to love?