Today’s modern-day market for hair growth remedies is filled to the brim with products and treatments that claim to promote long and healthy locks. However, there’s one hair growth secret that’s tried and true and is closely linked with the Basara people of Chad, who regularly sport extra-long tresses that cascade well below the waist: Chebe powder.
Chebe powder has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity among those with textured hair as of late. But does it live up to its reputation?
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What is Chebe Powder?
Chebe powder is a natural mixture created from a combination of shébé seeds originating from the Croton zambesicus plant, cloves, mahllaba soubiane seeds, missic stone, and resin that presents in the form of a brown colored powder.
Chebe powder is a blend of natural ingredients.
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According to Taylor, Chebe powder is “a powder made with cherry seeds, lavender, resin tree sap, cloves, and stones.” Mixing chebe powder with water will turn it into a clay that can be put onto your hair. It's an old tradition from Chad, Africa and is used to reduce breakage and shedding.
Chadian women use chebe powder “once or twice a week and leave it for a minimum of one to two hours and longer, if possible,” says Posina.
Now, chebe powder is also being incorporated into other types of products, like Salwa Peterson’s Chébé du Tchad hair cream.
Benefits of Chebe Powder
The number one benefit of using chebe powder is helping nurture hair growth. But the list of benefits doesn’t stop there-in fact, chebe powder is also believed to soften the hair, acting as a natural hydrator and helping your mane better retain moisture.
So, What Are the Benefits of Chebe Powder? Chebe powder is “more or less used to reconstruct and strengthen the bond and shaft of the hair,” according to Taylor. “It will help retain length since it's stronger, but doesn’t actually promote more growth.”
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Bailey also notes that unlike other hair masks, chebe is only applied to the hair shaft, as opposed to the scalp or roots. "Since it is known to provide intense moisture to the hair strands, it helps with moisture retention and improves the elasticity of the hair," says Bailey. "Also, since the hair is easier to manage and detangle, less hair will break, and length will be retained."
Here's a summary of the key benefits:
- Helps nurture hair growth
- Softens the hair
- Acts as a natural hydrator
- Helps hair retain moisture
- Reconstructs and strengthens the hair
- Helps retain length
- Improves hair elasticity
And while it was designed for-and may be particularly useful for-curly hair, that doesn’t necessarily rule out its efficacy for other hair types. “It’s difficult to say that one hair type would benefit more from it than others, but anyone looking for hydration can give it a try,” says Posina. “The women that have been using it in Africa historically have coarse, curly hair naturally and they strongly believe it nourishes their hair and keeps the moisture locked in.”
Other forms of Chebe:
- African chebe shampoos and conditioners are made with chebe powder. They're good for nourishing, cleansing, and strengthening the hair.
- You can use chebe oil for hair growth and nourishment. They also give hair added shine and protection.
- African chebe pomades are great styling products that can make your hair look shinier. They are usually made from a combination of chebe powder, shea butter, and beeswax.
- African chebe beard care products are usually made from a mix of chebe powder, shea butter, and essential oils. They are great for nourishing and conditioning the beard. It softens and moisturizes the beard, and lessens the feeling of itchiness and irritation.
- African chebe styling products are great for creating so many hairstyles. Whether you want braids, twists, locs, or other styles, this hair styling product holds definition.
- Hair growth gel encourages healthy hair growth. Many people have said that chebe powder for hair is one of the best products you can use for African-American hair types.
How to Use Chebe Powder
Whether you’re curious about how to use chebe powder on natural hair or how to use chebe powder on relaxed hair, the good news is, the process is simple and safe for all hair types!
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First, chebe powder is mixed with water or oil to create a paste. “Apply it all over your hair and put it into thick braids,” says Taylor, adding that the specific number of braids “will depend on you and your hair thickness.” Then, you can leave it in for up to a week.
“Most people will leave it in their hair for 3-7 days and wash it out,” says the hairstylist, noting that “it will be a little harder to wash out since it hardens, so don't tangle it up as you rinse it out, or else it will tug more.”
If you want to try chebe powder but have straight hair, Taylor recommends washing it out sooner rather than later. “For straighter hair types, I would suggest not to leave it on for long, or else it will end up doing the opposite of what you intended and breaking off,” says the hairstylist. Bailey adds that finer hair types may want to avoid it using chebe powder, "because the treatment does provide moisture and may weigh fine hair down."
Chebe powder is traditionally applied to braided hair.
Typically, the shrub is ground into powder, and then mixed with water, natural oils, and butters. The Basara women of Chad come together and take turns putting chebe paste into each other's hair. They braid each soaked through section afterwards.
How to specifically use African chebe depends on the product form and on your hair's individual needs.
- Step 2: Apply the chebe paste or powder on damp hair.
Are There Any Side Effects?
If used as directed, there shouldn’t be any major side effects when using chebe powder. However the color of the powder itself should be taken into consideration for those with lighter hair.
"The powder is usually a dark brown color, so those that have light-colored hair may not want to use it because it would be seen in the hair if left in," says Bailey. Taylor also advises caution to those with sensitivities to natural ingredients.
Where to Buy Chebe Powder
Chebe powder is available at many specialty hair product retailers across the country. Likewise, chebe powder can oftentimes be bought directly from hair salons that provide a select inventory of hair products for purchase, especially those establishments that already offer chebe powder-based hair services.
As per tradition, chebe powder is mixed with water, then applied directly to protective styles like braids and is left on the hair for several days.
Africa Imports is the go-to supplier if you want to stock high-quality wholesale African chebe products. From chebe powders to oils, our wide range of products are great for supporting natural hair growth. Give your customers access to natural hair care solutions. Contact us if you have any questions.
Yes, our African chebe powder is organic. They come from the crushed leaves and nuts of the Combretum micranthum tree. They are grown naturally without pesticides or artificial fertilizers.
Absolutely! Chebe powder can be used together with other hair care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, hair oils, and styling products. Chebe powder can improve the benefits of these products.
| Product Type | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chebe Powder | Raw powder made from natural ingredients | Strengthens hair, retains moisture, promotes length retention |
| Chebe Shampoo and Conditioner | Infused with chebe powder | Nourishes, cleanses, and strengthens hair |
| Chebe Oil | Oil infused with chebe powder | Promotes hair growth, adds shine and protection |
| Chebe Pomade | Styling product with chebe powder, shea butter, and beeswax | Adds shine and helps with styling |
Chebe powder is generally safe for most people. However, there are some people who may experience mild scalp irritation or allergic reactions.
Our African chebe products are made from 100% authentic natural Chebe powder directly from Chad. Each product is made with care and follows strict safety standards.
Yes, you can. Africa Imports is all about helping you start your own business and expand your product offerings.
Storage and Shelf Life
Chebe powder has a relatively long shelf life. Still, it's important to check the specific expiration date on the product.
Store chebe powder and all African chebe hair products in a cool, dry place. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture.
The shelf life of African chebe hair products and chebe powder can vary. It depends on storage conditions and the specific brand.
