Alaffia is one of the most well-known fair trade organizations in the natural body care industry. Founded by couple Olowo-n’djo Tchala and Prairie Rose Hyde, they work to empower West African communities and foster gender equality through the fair trade production and distribution of natural body, skin, and hair care products. Their offerings include deodorants, shampoos and conditioners, lotions, balms, oils, body wash, bar soaps, bubble baths, hair styling gels, moisturizers, serums, scrubs, and more. These items are produced using unrefined shea butter, virgin coconut oil, and other natural products that protect hair and skin against sun and wind damage.
By following fair trade practices, Alaffia ensures their producers are paid a fair wage and provided with fair working conditions and equal employment opportunities. This also ensures environmental stewardship as well as cultural and economic sustainability for local West African communities. Additionally, a price premium above the minimum fair trade cost for products is set aside for development projects in Alaffia's producer communities.