Male grooming is having a moment, and it’s all about getting Afro grooming right. Gone are the days when Black men had to make do with one-size-fits-all products that left them high and dry. Now, a wave of independent brands, including indie British offerings, is rewriting the rules, showing that a simple-but-effective routine tailored to Black skin and hair needs is the way to go.
The new school of grooming
Meet the players in the game: DABA, Wavebuilder, and Cantu. These brands are flipping the script on what it means to take care of Black men’s grooming needs.
DABA
DABA is the brainchild of David and Babatope, who launched their brand in 2023 after getting fed up with the lack of decent skincare options for men with melanin-rich skin. These guys didn’t just talk about the problem – they created a solution. DABA’s products are all about protecting your skin without the fuss. Simple, safe and straight to the point, DABA is for the man who knows his skin deserves better.
Wavebuilder
Wavebuilder is the go-to for men serious about their waves. With decades of experience, they’ve nailed the formula for the perfect wave game. From pomades to wave finishers, Wavebuilder’s products are tested by the community, for the community. And let’s face it – when it comes to waves, these guys are the real deal. If you want to ride the wave to perfection, Wavebuilder has you covered.
Cantu
Cantu isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement. As the UK’s top textured haircare brand, Cantu is all about making quality hair care accessible. Whether you’ve got curls, coils, or waves, Cantu’s products – packed with pure shea butter – are designed to bring out the best in your hair. And it’s not just about looking good; it’s about embodying your natural beauty. Cantu’s mission is simple: to help you own your authentic self, one curl at a time.
This new wave of grooming brands is all about keeping things simple, effective and relevant. No more settling for products that don’t understand your skin or hair. These brands are setting the bar high, proving that looking after Black skin and hair doesn’t have to be complicated – it just has to be right.
The success of these brands signals a broader trend in male grooming – one that values simplicity. As such, as more men become aware of the importance of a tailored grooming routine, the market for Afro grooming products is only expected to grow!
