Please note that the Natural Hair Academy (NHA) event has been postponed to a later date. We invite you to consult the official NHA website for new dates and information.
A 13-year-old cultural event
Since its creation in Paris in 2012, the Natural Hair Academy (NHA) has succeeded in an audacious gamble: transforming the “back to natural hair” movement into a major cultural, social and economic platform in Europe. The event has grown to become the largest gathering for Black and mixed-race women, attracting celebrities, influencers and a record 180 exhibitors by 2025.
The success and longevity of the NHA are based on a clear philosophy: to celebrate the differences, uniqueness and solidarity of its audience. The event is conceived as an all-encompassing place of inspiration and entertainment, offering two days rich in activities:
- workshops covering hair care, make-up, DIY product creation, mental health and meditation
- inspiring panels on empowerment, self-love and entrepreneurship
- hair and fashion shows that set social networks alight every year.
- The integrated Children’s Village also bears witness to NHA’s inclusive, family-oriented vision.
Having firmly conquered Paris, the NHA is extending its reach and preparing to land in Marseille on Saturday December 6 and Sunday December 7, 2025 at the Parc Chanot. This expansion confirms the growth of the movement and the interest of consumers beyond the capital.
Deciphering the new expectations of Afro-French women
Each edition of the NHA is inseparable from the market dynamics it reflects. The
Why is this study crucial in 2025? The hygiene and beauty market is being redefined, driven by increasingly informed and demanding consumers. The 2025 edition sheds light on the sector’s new dynamics: changes in usage, customers’ precise expectations, the benchmark brands that are making their mark, and the distribution channels that are experiencing the strongest growth.
One theme dominates:structural inclusivity. Afro-French women no longer expect simple adaptation, but demand that inclusivity be considered right from the product design stage. This means formulas developed specifically for their skin and hair, a make-up offering that covers all skin tones, and genuine recognition of their unique needs.
The AK-A study is thus positioned as an essential strategic tool, providing players in the beauty sector with the data they need to put an end to approximations and design truly adapted and respectful products. The NHA, as the crossroads between brands and consumers, becomes the ideal place to present the results of this study and engage in a constructive discussion on the future of inclusivity in beauty.
Read also
