The annual 21Ninety Awards are officially here! This year’s awards are include some of the best and brightest in beauty, hair, skincare, wellness and fashion. The 2024 winners have been specifically curated for Black and multicultural women. The awards highlight must-haves in each category, celebrating innovative formulas, on-trend styles, and accessible luxury options that are raising the bar in the beauty industry. These favorites are handpicked by the 21Ninety staff along with pros and influencers. The hair awards specifically highlight the best hair products, showcasing groundbreaking innovations, restorative treatments, and expert-approved solutions that are redefining haircare standards.
21Ninety Awards Hair Winners
This year, the hair category winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges, including Board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, renowned makeup artist Tamar Israel, fashion stylist Devyni Hightower and the 21Ninety staff. These judges were selected for their expertise and influence in the beauty industry. They bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the unique needs and preferences of our community. Together, they evaluated each product’s price point, effectiveness, ingredients, founding principals and overall brand reputation to ensure the selected winners truly represent the best of the best.
LivSo Moisturizing Shampoo
Price Point, Ingredients, Black-owned/Founded
The LivSo Moisturizing Shampoo is a powerhouse product designed to cleanse while delivering intense moisture. Formulated with xylitol, glycolic acid, and coconut oil, this shampoo works to smooth, strengthen, and nourish the scalp and hair. It effectively addresses common concerns like seborrheic dermatitis, reducing flakes, itching, and irritation without over-drying.
“Nourishes kinky, curly hair and comforts dry skin. Addresses common concerns like seborrheic dermatitis without over-drying the scalp,” said Imahiyerobo-Ip.
LivSo Conditioner
Price Point, Ingredients, Black-owned/Founded
Paired perfectly with the LivSo Moisturizing Shampoo, the LivSo Conditioner offers a balanced blend of quality ingredients, including Abyssinian oil, silk extract, and hydrolyzed oat protein. This thick formula binds to the hair, nourishing and conditioning it without weighing it down, leaving strands silky, strong, and full of luster.
Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Price Point, Effectiveness, Black-owned/Founded
Design Essentials has long been a staple in the Black community, and their Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Sulfate-Free Shampoo is no exception. This sulfate-free formula provides a luxurious, moisture-rich cleanse that detangles and softens hair without stripping it of its natural oils. It’s perfect for those looking to maintain their natural texture while achieving a silky, smooth finish.
“I absolutely love this shampoo on my naturally coily tresses,” Israel expressed. “It is extremely creamy for the most luxurious cleanse, but most importantly it cleans my hair without stripping it of its natural oils. I love to incorporate this moisturizing shampoo in my routine right after I use a clarifying shampoo for a sexy, silk press or when I’m using heat on my hair. My hair has never felt softer!”
Melanj Hair Coil Curl Clip-ins
Price Point, Effectiveness, Ingredients, Black-owned/Founded, Brand Reputation
For those looking to add volume and length without compromising their natural look, Melanj Hair Coil Curl Clip-ins are a perfect choice. These clip-ins are designed to blend seamlessly with Type 4 natural hair, offering tightly coiled ringlets that enhance your existing style. Whether you’re going for a twist-out or braid-out, these clip-ins provide the versatility and quality you need to turn heads.
“Melanj Hair coily curly hair clip-ins have been a lifesaver over the years! The quality and consistency of the products that I have gotten from them have always been TOP NOTCH,” Hightower said.
Clementine Sleepwear Organic Silk Hair Bonnet
Effectiveness, Ingredients/Materials
The Clementine Sleepwear Organic Silk Hair Bonnet is more than just a stylish accessory; it’s a luxury experience and one of the best hair products on the market this year. Made from 100% organic mulberry silk, this double-lined bonnet is designed to protect your hair while you sleep, preventing frizz and maintaining healthy curls. Its innovative, adjustable strap ensures a perfect fit every time, making it an essential addition to your nighttime routine.
“I love the look and feel of the Organic Ion Silk Hair Bonnet! It’s made from 100% organic silk, and silver ions enhance its restorative properties for your hair and scalp. I wake up with frizz-free hair and tighter, healthier-looking curls. This bonnet stays put and is made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting,” staff writer, Stephanie Taylor shared.
Taliah Wajid Shea-Coco Daily Leave-In Conditioner
Effectiveness, Black-owned/Founded
For those who struggle with detangling, the Taliah Wajid Shea-Coco Daily Leave-In Conditioner is a must-try. This intense daily conditioner is one of the best hair products for 2024 thanks to its immense hydrating qualities. It helps keep hair moisturized without shrinkage, making it ideal for refreshing twist-outs and other natural styles. With ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, it offers deep hydration and protection against damage.
“This leave-in conditioner is a must-try for those who have trouble detangling. It’s also a great product to use when refreshing a twist-out,” Arielle Poteau, Deputy Editor, explained.
On the Edge Baby Hair Brush
Effectiveness, Black-owned/Founded, Brand Reputation
Slaying your edges has never been easier or more stylish than with the On the Edge Baby Hair Signature Glow Up Gold Edge Brush. This dual-sided tool features a brush side with longer bristles designed specifically for textured hair. The other side is a wide-tooth comb that prevents breakage while styling. Its ergonomic grip makes it comfortable to use, and with a variety of fabulous colors. You’re sure to find one that fits your style.
“On the Edge Baby Hair edge brush is not your average edge brush,” Hightower remarked. “This edge brush is designed to protect your edges with longer and thicker bristles to glide through all types of hair. And the best part is they come in so many fabulous colors and patterns, you’ll be sure to find one that fits your style!”
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