The 1960s were a pivotal decade for black hair care, as more and more products were created specifically for African American hair. Whether it was to enhance natural curls or straighten and style, these products became staples in the daily hair routines of many black women. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 black hair products of the 1960s.1960s Black Hair Products
1960s Black Hair Products 1. Afro Sheen 2. Ultra Sheen 3. Black and White Hair Dressing Pomade 4. Dax Hair Pomade 5. Blue Magic Hair Conditioner 6. Johnson's Baby Hair Oil 7. Soft Sheen Hair Relaxer 8. Dark and Lovely Hair Relaxer 9. Motions Hair Relaxer 10. Pink Lotion Hair Moisturizer
The Evolution of Black Hair Products in the 1960s
The Civil Rights Movement and its Impact on Black Hair
The 1960s were a time of great social and cultural change in the United States, especially for the African American community. The Civil Rights Movement was in full swing, with leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X fighting for racial equality and justice. Along with this fight for civil rights, there was also a revolution happening within the black community, particularly in the world of hair. For decades, black women had limited options when it came to hair products, but the 1960s brought about a new era of hair care specifically tailored for black hair.
The Birth of Black-owned Hair Companies
Prior to the 1960s, most hair products marketed towards black women were created by large, mainstream companies. However, during this decade, we saw the rise of black-owned hair companies that catered specifically to the needs of black women. These companies understood the unique texture and needs of black hair, and their products reflected that. Some of the most popular black-owned hair companies of the 1960s included Dudley Products, SoftSheen, and Johnson Products.
The Introduction of Chemical Straighteners
During the 1960s, the use of chemical straighteners became more prevalent among black women. These products, such as relaxers and perms, were designed to alter the natural texture of black hair and make it easier to style. While chemical straighteners offered convenience and versatility, they also came with potential risks and side effects. Many black women experienced hair damage and scalp issues from these products, leading to a movement towards more natural hair care methods in the following decades.
Embracing Natural Hair
Despite the popularity of chemical straighteners, there was also a growing movement towards embracing natural, unaltered hair in the 1960s. The afro hairstyle became a symbol of black pride and identity, with many women choosing to wear their hair in its natural state. This shift towards natural hair also led to the creation of new products specifically designed to enhance and maintain the health of natural, textured hair.
In conclusion, the 1960s were a pivotal time for black hair products. The Civil Rights Movement sparked a wave of change and empowerment within the black community, leading to the birth of black-owned hair companies and a shift towards embracing natural hair. These developments not only provided more options for black women but also paved the way for a greater understanding and appreciation of the beauty and diversity of black hair.
