We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tazia Allen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Tazia , appreciate you joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I started my business back in 2010 after losing my hair from a bad relaxer. I wanted to find a way to grow my hair back quickly but I kept running into products that were full of chemicals and would cause scalp abrasions, or were too harsh on my hair.

I also had a young daughter whose texture of hair was vastly different than mine. So I had to figure out something that would work for both of us!

I initially started by whipping shea butter and then formulated what is now known as the LushCurl Custard. I also added a Growth Oil.

Fast forward to 12 years later and I have grown to feature over 200 products both for hair & skin! All made with Organic Fruits & Vegetables along with Natural ingredients like Shea & Castor to really give you an amazing experience AND help you to fall in love with taking care of you from head to toe!

I’m proud to say that I have also expanded my product line to feature Plant Care products as well as Wellness products and a Mama & Baby line!

Tazia , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have always felt called to create. I started with diy projects and artistry. I have always had an interest in hair. How to make it grow, how to protect the integrity of your hair, etc.

My mission has always been to provide products that give you the ultimate experience. Not only do they smell good but they are effective! Using the best ingredients and getting away from chemicals and all of those additives that are bad for our hair and skin.

I believe my products are different from others because they can be used by anyone. All hair types, all walks of life. Also they fit into any hair care routine. If you’re already established with a product line but just feel you need to add a little boost, my products are functional just for that.

I also want my audience and future customers to know that I care about the whole body. I research and research and then I research some more. I thrive in learning and evolving even more and that reflects in the products. The various tinctures and wellness products, down to using certain fruits for hair growth or vegetables for skin care!

I would also like to add that I provide a personalized experience. I want to get to know my customers. Alot of them have become friends and are invested in my personal life. They have watched me grow and I want to pour back into that because I’m very grateful and I appreciate each and every one!

Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?

I started out with the basics of researching which oils and butters worked better for hair and/or skin.

Then I got started mixing. I manufacture all of the products. Alot of the florals and herbs used are foraged and dehydrated in house. This way I know exactly what’s going into those bottles and jars and stand behind them 100%.

I’ve had to learn the science of preservatives versus thickeners and shelf life. I’ve had some fails but not many very early on. My biggest flex is that nothing is written down. It’s all in my head and I remember every ingredient right off the top of my head as well as their benefits.

So it’s been a wonderful journey over the years in finding my niche and really expanding on my knowledge and continuously learning.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Being down to earth and easily approachable. Talking to me feels like chatting with your favorite aunt, or best cousin.

For me it’s not about the sale. It’s about making sure that my customer has the best experience using the products but also educating them on how the products help, enhance and nourish.

I’m also an open book and I’ve had several people cross my path with questions on how to get started, where to source inventory, etc. I’m always willing to help! I believe that no gatekeeping and helping someone along the journey says so much about your character.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.honeychilehairlove.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/honeychilehairlove
• Facebook: Facebook.com/honeychilehairlove
• Twitter: Twitter.com/honeychile2k
• Other: TikTok: HoneyChile HairLove