By JOHN ONAH, Abuja –
The Japanese fibre giant, Kanekalon collaboration workshop with the Osun State Barbing, Hairdressing, and Cosmetologist Association (OBHACA) have established and empowered local stylists in the state.
The Kanekalon representative from Ghana, Miebi Egbebo, during the Association Collaboration workshop series in partnership with X – Xpression hair one of Kanekalon fibre products, assured hairstylists of the company’s committment to producing high-quality Japanese fiber, emphasizing that their products have been in existence since 1957 and are available in over 48 Sub-Saharan African countries.
At the workshop, OBHACA Osun State president Mrs. Adedoyin Adefunke Mojirade expressed her appreciation for the commitment of hairstylists to the industry and commended their resilience in adapting to new trends.
Earlier in her speech, she extended her gratitude to Kanekalon, X-Pression, and other stakeholders for their support in advancing the local hairstyling profession in the state.
Adedoyin acknowledged the encouragement from Kanekalon, X-Pression and AH&B emphasizing the significance of their presence in fostering innovation and product knowledge among hairstylists.
Kanekalon representative,
Miebi Egbebo lamented the current economic situation, stating that the rise in the dollar exchange rate had led to increased prices of hair extensions.
She appealed for their understanding, explaining that this inflation has affected all sectors of the Nigerian economy, including the beauty industry.
Miebi highlighted the advantages of Kanekalon fiber, stating that they no longer manufacture heavy fibers but now produce ultralight versions that enhance comfort and styling flexibility.
Miebi during the enlightenment session demonstrated the product authenticity, by conducted a flame retardant test, showcasing the difference between Kanekalon fiber and other synthetic fibers.
she further introduced a new hairstyle technique called the Two-Tone Wrapping Style, which helps reduce hair breakage also urging hairstylists to ensure proper disposal of product labels to combat counterfeit distribution.
On his part, the representative of X-Pression hair, Mr. Afolabi Aduragbemi introduced their latest product, GEM BRAID, which comes in multiple colors. He described its key features:
- Lightweight and soft texture, ensuring comfort for users
- Made from Aquatex Fiber, unlike rubber-based products, allowing for a “Wash and Go” effect
- Flame retadant, as authentic GEM BRAID does not burn easily like counterfeit products
- Pocket-friendly, making it an affordable yet premium option for stylists and customers .
Mr. Aduragbemi noted that this was X-Pression’s first official event in Osun State, emphasizing their commitment to engaging with local hairstylists.
During an interactive session, hairstylists raised concerns about the rising cost of hair extensions and the influx of counterfeit X-Pression products in the market.
To address these issues, Mr. Aduragbemi provided the following recommendations:
- Always buy from authorized distributors to ensure authenticity
- Professionals should learn to identify genuine products by their texture, weight, and quality
- All X-Pression products now feature a QR code that can be scanned to verify authenticity
- Counterfeit products pose health risks, including allergic reactions and scalp irritation
He reinforced these points through a Q&A session, ensuring participants fully understood the importance of product originality.
The highlight of the engagement was distribution gift items to the attendees.
During the survey and Feedback session, participants were encouraged to scan the QR code and provide their opinions and suggestions for future workshops organized for OBHACA.
Aduragbemi emphasized that this feedback will be crucial for improving future events and addressing any concerns raised during the workshop.
In her furniture contribution, Miebi reiterated the importance of product education, urging hairstylists to stay updated on industry innovations and prioritize the use of genuine products.
As it has been the custom of the workshop, a styling competition was held, where participants showcased their hairstyling creativity using GEM BRAID and the winners who emerged were rewarded with cash prizes and gift packages:
First Prize winner, Mrs. Ahmed Latifat ₦50,000 , Second Prize winner Mrs Rukayat Fatai ₦30,000 and the third Prize Winner Mrs Lawal Kehinde ₦20,000 respectively.
