Windhoek, Aug 9 (IANS) Business is on the rise for Brazilian hair traders in Namibia, in southern Africa, as more women seek virgin Brazilian hair to supplement their own hair and attain a glorious look.
Toini Tobias is one of the Brazilian hair-inspired entrepreneurs who lives in Namibian capital Windhoek. She has been selling Brazilian hair since 2011.
“Brazilian hair business is not too bad,” Tobias said.
The demand for Brazilian hair has steered up the entrepreneurial spirit amongst many Namibians, maximising on Namibia’s stylish women’s longing for a universal hairdo, Xinhua reported.
“I was looking for ways to earn an income. I noticed that Brazilian hair was gaining popularity and many Namibian ladies were willing to spend on it. A friend introduced me to the trade. So I decided to give it a try,” Tobias said.
Tobias imports Brazilian hair through a friend who has direct links and network in the trade in Brazil.
“Sometimes I order the hair online thorough a Brazilian hair trade agency in China, which they then courier to Namibia. It’s cheaper when you buy in bulk,” she explained.
According to Tobias, the start was not easy. “But after a while one builds a network of clients. You have to sell genuine virgin hair if you want to last in business and you have to build a good reputation in the trade,” she said, reasoning that satisfied clients or buyers usually refer friends to her.
A pack or bundle of Brazilian hair on an average goes for $200 to $350, depending on the size or length.
Meanwhile, more people are benefiting from the Brazilian hair market. Direct Brazilian hair traders are not the only ones benefiting from the booming trade. Hairdressers too are raking it in big.
Sonia Shikende is a hairdresser based in Windhoek. She said more women show up at her salon with Brazilian hair. Hairdressers have since developed innovative ways to plait and style with Brazilian hair as women hunt for a new look.
“I had to upgrade my skills and master the art of hairdressing Brazilian hair. We charge over 350 Namibian dollars or more depending on how the client wants the hair to be done,” She said.
But it’s not all glory and praise in the trade.
Many have warned prospective buyers to be careful when purchasing Brazilian hair. “They sell us fake Brazilian hair, which they market to us as original and virgin Brazilian hair,” said Windhoek resident Niita Eino.
