What I Thought Of The New Madam CJ Walker Collection

When I first heard that a Madam CJ Walker hair care line was set to be released, I just had to get my hands on it.

I can’t count how many times I profiled Madam CJ Walker for Black History Month performances and projects–she’s sort of my imaginary ancestor and I was excited to support.

The Madam CJ Walker Beauty Culture line was created with the help of A’Lelia Bundles, Madam CJ Walker’s great-great granddaughter and historian. It’s being produced by Sundial, who also produces popular hair brands SheaMoisture and Nubian Heritage. In a press release about the line, A’Lelia said,

“Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture is taking what Madam Walker envisioned more than 100 years ago to a fresh, new level with products and formulas I believe she might have imagined for the 21st century. In one of her last speeches, Madam Walker emphasized the importance of healthy hair–whether curly-kinky, straight, wavy, or in-between–each style beautiful in its own uniqueness. With this line, every woman can have healthier hair while also confidently expressing her beauty in the best way possible–hers.”

Madam CJ Walker Beauty Culture is divided into three subsections for straight hair, loose waves, and kinks. I reviewed the Jamaican Black Castor & Murumuru Oils Pure Clarifying Shampoo with ACV, Jamaican Black Castor & Murumuru Oils Ultra-Moisturizing Conditioner, and Jamaican Black Castor & Murumuru Oils Defining Butter Crème which are all designed for tight curl patterns. Let’s get into it!

My review

The shampoo was a success. Compared to my usual clarifying shampoo, Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Pure Castile Liquid Soap, this was gentler. The oils in the shampoo were very hydrating. My hair and scalp felt clean but not stripped of moisture.

The conditioner would probably work best for type 3 curls. I prefer to do the majority of my detangling at this step and it didn’t give my 4b coils enough slip to do it. I’m also partial to a really thick, creamy conditioner; I might have better luck with their Jamaican Black Castor & Murumuru Oils Ultra-Moisturizing Co-Wash next time.

The styling creme gave me a moderate amount of definition. I was satisfied with the overall look, but I’m also more into frothiness over super defined curls. After using the complete line my hair was soft, hydrated, and had a healthy shine. If you can only buy one product, I’d suggest the shampoo. Gentle clarifiers are hard to come by and this one has apple cider vinegar, JBCO, and murumuru oils.

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Madam CJ Walker Beauty Culture is available at Sephora.com and in select Sephora stores. If you’ve tried the line, leave me a comment with your review and check out my YouTube review below.