Christina Jenkins

While working as a beautician in Chicago, Christina Jenkins saw that many Black women struggled with hair loss due to chemical processing and other damaging treatments. Because of this, she spent several years experimenting with different methods to address this issue and eventually developed a new technique that allowed women to add length and volume to their hair without damaging it.

Her new technique involved sewing hair extensions onto cornrows, which provided a more secure and long-lasting solution than previous methods she tried. In 1951, Jenkins patented her invention, making her one of the first Black women in the beauty industry to hold a patent. Her “HairWeeve” invention quickly gained popularity among Black women across the country and Jenkins started the Christina Jenkins Salon, where she sold her patented hair weaving products and trained other hair stylists in the technique. Jenkins also became an advocate for black women's hair care, speaking out against discriminatory beauty standards and promoting the importance of healthy hair care practices.

Jenkins later developed her own line of hair care products, including shampoos, conditioners, and styling products, which were specifically designed for women who wore hair weaves. She also authored a book, "The Art of Hair Weaving," which served as a guide for hair stylists and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Jenkins continued to innovate and expand her business throughout her career, and her hair weaving technique became widely adopted in the hair care industry. Jenkins passed away in 2003 at the age of 83, but her legacy as a pioneering businesswoman and innovator in the hair care industry continues to inspire and empower women in the beauty industry.