Natural hair care is an alternative to the contemporary hair styles that involve altering the natural
state of hair. When the hair is altered from its natural state using chemicals, heat, and other
potentially harmful methods, there are usually side effects to the hair and scalp. The most
common complaints from clients wearing the conventional perm, press and curl styles are hair
breakage, thinning, discoloration, skin disorders, scalp disorders, and slow growth. In IFBA ,
our methods of hair styling never alter the hair, cause problems with the scalp, or prevent the
hair from growing at it's own pace. In fact, we only use natural products in our customers hair
that help build the hair's strength, stimulate the scalp, and promote faster hair growth.
The premise behind IFBA's conception is to help African Americans to return to our African
heritage by doing that which our ancestors did. Many African American women were taught
how to braid, corn row, and twist their hair from their elders when we were young. Here at IFBA,
we go back to those times where natural hair styles and healthy were acceptable. The only
differences now are: 1) we allow both men and women to enjoy learning this art, 2) we teach
this art using a jazzy, new technique, 3) we teach this art in a professional environment, and 4)
we allow people to work at IFBA to not only perfect their hair styling but to also earn a living at
the same time.
While keeping the African tradition alive is always positive, there are also certain people who
have problem scalps or just need special attention from a professional. This was another
aspect of hair care Hana Carter felt was important to address in her Natural Hair Care classes
and on IFBA clients. Dealing with problematic scalps, sanitation, professional courtesy, and a
peaceful environment are a few of the advantages IFBA promotes and practices
The Los Angeles population has responded very enthusiastically to the services provided by
IFBA. We attribute this positive response as an affirmation that IFBA provides the latest and
greatest natural hair care services. We're also helping thousands of African Americans, young
and old, to break the shackles placed on our natural, African self image. We help our people
connect to our African heritage through acceptance and appreciation for our natural hair and it's
unique abilities. With the acceptance of self-image, the acceptance of self is inevitable.
Although we target our African-American community, we're open to people from all ethnic
backgrounds who would like to take natural hair care classes or any other services provided by
IFBA.
IFBA is approximately 1800 sq. ft. which includes a classroom, waiting area, 8 workstations, as
well as displays for merchandise and products. Decorated with cultural arts, crafts, paintings,
and many plants, IFBA provides an atmosphere of tranquility, peace and consciousness. IFBA
is operated by licensed, professional cosmetologists and classes are taught by an instructor
with over 20 years of experience.
