Alaffia is a great choice for folks who want economy, ethnic diversity, and positive social change to be part of their body care regimen. The company’s products utilize all-vegetarian ingredients, and do not test on animals. In addition, their commitment to social justice is unparalleled in the beauty care industry.
They donate to a dizzying number of charitable organizations, and have launched several empowerment projects in West Africa, aimed at improving residents’ lives through access to education, food, and safe delivery of babies. Products are manufactured to the highest standards. They are free from behavioral toxins, carcinogens, developmental toxins, endocrine disruptors, fire retardants, GMOs, heavy metals, neurotoxins, pesticides, synthetic fragrances, reproductive toxins, toxic solvents, or harmful VOCs.
Alaffia is multi-cultural, founded by a white woman from rural Washington and an African man from Kaboli, Togo. The company manufactures a line of products for African-Americans. However, the company’s offerings are diverse, manufactured to appeal to a variety of skin types and hair needs. Their website, www.alaffia.com relates their story and displays a vast array of products.
Alaffia’s Everyday Coconut Line showcases a collection manufactured with a certified, fair trade coconut base. Their Coconut Pineapple Hand Soap ($5.99) is aromatic and exotic, leaving your hands soft and moisturized. Oxidant-rich Moringa leaf is added to the formula to soothe your skin. It’s mild enough for everyday use, but smells like a day at the beach.
Shea butter is the principal ingredient in the company’s popular Everyday Shea line. The Vanilla-Mint Shea Shampoo ($14.99) is a highly rated offering that delivers the goods at a reasonable price. This 32-ounce bottle will last forever in your shower. Ethically traded, unrefined shea butter combines with shea leaf, virgin coconut oil, spearmint, and vanilla to create a formula that will leave your mane bouncy and shiny. This product is best for normal to very dry hair. For best results, follow with EveryDay Shea Moisturizing Conditioner ($14.99).
Alaffia’s Beautiful Curls line is specially formulated for the unique properties of African-American hair, but can be used by everyone. Their popular Wavy to Curly Defining Gel ($12.99) utilizes shea butter, aloe vera juice, and herbal extracts to enhance waves and curls. The formula reduces frizz and adds lustre to your hair. And, like all of Alaffia’s products, it smells divine.
Note: Though Alaffia offers many vegan items, they do include goat’s milk and honey in a few of their products. Definitely check the labels to make sure. However, this is an all-vegetarian line that never tests any of their ingredients on animals. They give back generously to the global community, and their prices are exceptionally reasonable. You can’t go wrong with credentials like these.

It’s great to discover companies that are so passionate about the ethical, cruelty-free lifestyle! Wow I already love Alaffia! Another amazing thing is the inclusivity of the brand, there are still not enough products suitable for people of all cultures, I’m so glad someone out there is trying to change that! So inspiring! I’m definitely going to order the Coconut Pineapple Hand Soap, even it’s name evokes delicious smells! An it is so affordable. Thanks for including the warning about checking the ingredients for non-vegan ones, much appreciated!