Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa's hair journey: The importance of professional care for all hair types

Actress and fashion designer Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa is known for rocking her auburn brown wigs and is never scared to switch things up with a bold colour.

​Underneath her beautiful wigs, Mlotshwa, maintains her natural hair with a protective style.

​“The Blood Legacy” actress opened up about her hair journey at an intimate celebration marking her announcement as the first celebrity ambassador of Carlton Hair.

​Mlotshwa’s grandmother was a hairdresser, and she was the Essie Apparel’s designers' introduction to hair. She recalls that growing up, there were limited black-owned salons that would do everything according to regulations.

​“For some reason, regulation has just slipped a bit and everyone can be a hair stylist and it's so unfortunate because this is why black women don't have hairlines anymore.

“This is why black women constantly cut their hair because their hair isn't rich and Carlton Hair is bringing that back. It's bringing back the formalities of doing things right. You have to study to be a hairstylist.

​“You need to understand what 4C is and treating 4C hair and treating straight hair and Asian hair and Indian hair.”

​Mlotshwa expressed that she needs to know that her hairline and hair is safe when she chooses a salon. “I know the person looking after my hair has studied for this and has qualified to give me advice on how to better my hair journey. Because for us black girls, the journey is a tough one.”

​A woman’s hair is often described as her crown and over time, it has become evident that women are willing to spend their hard-earned cash on quality salon experiences.

​Growing up, there was a clear difference between the caucasian and the black salon. That is something, however, that is changing and caucasian salons are evolving to cater for all hair types.

​“Carlton Hair is not in any way associated with ethnic hair, but I love the fact that they're so consistent. If you go to Cape Town, you find the Carlton Hair. If you go to Mpumalanga, you find the Carlton. You come to Johannesburg, you find the Carlton,” she told IOL.

​“They're able to work with all that type of hair. My hair under this hair (wig), I’ve got to grow it, it’s so healthy. They've found out what's wrong with my hair. My hair is just generally very dry and they've treated it to a point where I feel like it's back to normal.

​“I love the fact that they take their time to analyze your hair, figure out what the problem is, and not to slap relaxer on.”

Mlotshwa’s hair journey shows the importance of trusting qualified professionals for hair care, especially for black women seeking healthy, strong hairlines.

With salons like Carlton Hair prioritizing expertise and inclusivity, women can now enjoy personalized treatments that support all hair textures. Investing in professional care not only protects your crown but also empowers you to embrace every stage of your hair journey with confidence.

IOL Lifestyle