Escofhari being well versed in science, indigenous world history, botanical herbs and oils, inspired his entire family to seek a more holistic lifestyle and its benefits. This included a mindful diet and nutrition, meditating, positive aspects of healing through energy work, self-reflection, self-acceptance and healthier alternatives to pampering. Robin became curious about the philosophy of metaphysics, seeking the truth of existence and understanding the science of who she is as a black woman. Her relation to history, culture, the mind, the body, and the soul principle became intriguing and spiritually awakening. Together, Escofhari, Robin and their 5 sons sought natural health and longevity.
The Novelty
Seeing so many women, men, and children suffering from the ill side-effects of chemicals being used on the hair and causing damage to the scalp and skin, Esco and Robin became passionate about educating individuals about healthy hair care. This was the impetus of their entrepreneurial endeavors in the natural hair care industry.
Improper hair care, the side-effects of chemicals used on the hair, scalp and skin and the lack of health care was extremely disturbing and therefore became an obsession to educate individuals, while also assisting them with creating a means for self-sufficiency. Esco and Robin having a background in cosmetology, decided to create a curriculum based on natural hair care and holistic living. They believe that the two philosophies must work together for the success of the individual.
In blending their ideologies, Esco and Robin decided to establish the “Escofhari Institute”. This school offered a 260-hour curriculum which included natural, healthy hair care, sanitation, holistic living, professionalism, the properties of essential oils, the effects of transferring positive energy and much more. Once the curriculum was successfully completed students were tested, certified and became licensed as "Natural Hair Care and Holistic Living Practitioners”. Not only did they teach healthy hair care to their students, but they also endowed them with the capability to own and operate their own natural hair care businesses. Together they helped their students understand the benefits of self-realization, self-acceptance, and self-preservation.
For over 20 years the Institute provided licensing through their self-regulated board, the "North Carolina Board of Natural Hair Care and Holistic Science”. Unfortunately, in 2010 the Cosmetic Art Board gained approval from legislatures to govern natural hair care in the State of North Carolina. With this new law the North Carolina Board of Natural Hair Care and Holistic Science were prohibited from licensing individuals as Natural Hair Care and Holistic Living Practitioners. This new idea was indeed something that people were reluctant to embrace.
Escofharis Holistic House
Though the physical Institute that licensed individuals was unable to be reestablished, the natural and spiritual component of the curriculum withstood any legislative policy. Escofhari and Robin regained their footing and created a new way of teaching self-care and providing healthy hair care and body services which proved to be an even greater commodity. Like a phoenix rising, The Escofhari Holistic House was born for those that wanted and needed alternative healthy hair care. In this new and iconic establishment, they were able to actually teach people how to do more with less. One of the primary goals of the House was to provide an establishment where people could come for beautiful, healthy styles that lasted with minimum maintenance while transitioning from damaged and relaxed hair into healthy, natural hair or transitioning into beautiful locs. Another healthy goal was to offer relaxation services that not only enhanced your hair and skin, but also your mind, your body, and your soul. All the natural hair care and body relaxation services offered are from a holistic science perspective. Everything used in the care of the client’s hair, skin and body is to enhance them, by not causing destruction, but encouraging healing, self-discovery, and appreciation.
