OCOA Becomes the First Dominican Hair Care Brand at Ulta Beauty, Celebrating Heritage

OCOA Goes National: A Celebration of Dominican Heritage in Hair Care

In a significant step for diversity in the beauty industry, OCOA has officially launched at over 450 Ulta Beauty stores nationwide, making it the inaugural Dominican-owned hair care brand available through this major retail chain. Founded by sisters Cory Varona-Corniel and Nicol Varona Cancelmo, OCOA is proud to represent its Dominican roots while providing high-quality, clean hair care products.

A Unique Approach to Hair Care

OCOA is not just another hair care line; it is a commitment to quality and cultural representation. The brand’s products are designed with skincare-level ingredients, catering specifically to curly hair types without the inclusion of coconut oil, which can be a common irritant for curly-haired individuals. The full range includes a Curl Care Shampoo and Conditioner, Hydrating Curl Cream, Curl Defining Styling Gel, and the exclusive Curl Refresh + Hold Spray. These products are available only at Ulta Beauty, making them a unique addition to the brand's offerings.

Emphasizing Clean Beauty Standards

What sets OCOA apart is its adherence to the five pillars of Conscious Beauty at Ulta. Their formulations are clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged sustainably, showcasing the brand's commitment to ethical practices. As Cory and Nicol express, "Our curls are beautiful as they are," highlighting the brand’s mission to end hair assimilation and encourage individuals with curly hair to embrace their natural beauty.

Celebrating the Launch

To commemorate this historic milestone, OCOA is hosting two free events in Pennsylvania, the sisters’ home state. Attendees can meet the brand's founders, participate in refreshing stations, and enjoy special promotions, including a gift with purchase. These events are scheduled for September 20th at the Ulta Beauty in Lancaster and on September 27th at the Fashion District Ulta Beauty in Philadelphia.

A Statement from Ulta Beauty

Jessica Phillips, Vice President of Merchandising at Ulta Beauty, emphasized the importance of welcoming OCOA into their lineup. "We're thrilled to have OCOA represent the Dominican community in our stores," she stated. The collaboration was facilitated through Ulta's Sparked platform, aimed at highlighting emerging brands, and the MUSE Accelerator program, which supports diverse beauty entrepreneurs.

The Future of OCOA

With its launch at Ulta Beauty, OCOA is setting the standard for cultural representation in hair care. The products are not only tailored for curly-haired individuals but also foster a sense of belonging in the beauty community. OCOA is paving the way for future Dominican brands aiming to make a mark in the beauty industry, proving that heritage and quality can go hand in hand.

For further details on OCOA’s product range and to explore its unique offerings, visit OCOA Beauty's official website. The brand’s dedication to embracing natural beauty reflects a broader movement within the industry, where authenticity and cultural roots become increasingly celebrated.