Back in 2016..

I, Larissa Brown (Founder), noticed several natural hair tutorials recommended on her YouTube channel and decided to explore. I began to see a resemblance between my hair and some of the creators on YouTube and thought I could adapt to this lifestyle. My hair was heat damaged and lacking moisture from Spring 2016 and I was tempted to do the big chop.

I contacted my local hairdresser and asked him to cut all my hair off. He then asked how I would like my hair styled and I replied 'I want to cut it very short' and showed him references. He responded saying..

"You need to relax it, otherwise it won't look good".

Those were enough words to make me realise this man is literally employed to dress me like a European.

I didn't understand why I had to ask for a weave, relaxer or straightening modification in order to get my hair styled. It was hurtful to hear that from a fellow Black person but I refused to allow someone that does not honour the beauty of my natural hair to touch it. So I went for a treatment and trim instead and whilst brushing my hair, he was shaking his head and sighing and as if he were disappointed with the texture.

Afterwards,

I left the salon and spent £47 on essential oils, wide tooth combs and curling cremes to begin my natural hair journey.

After graduating in 2017, I suffered with depression and unemployment. I couldn't afford smart wear for interviews or products to look presentable.

I started DARQ to make products that nurture our existence rather than transform it. Hair care helped pull me out of darkness, and now I’m driven to offer products that inspire self-discipline and self-care.

Today,

DARQ is back and better than ever with a fresh lineup of products, new merchandise, and an exciting rebrand. The magazines may also make a return—in a reimagined format, with a twist.