The One Thing
Our series, The One Thing, is a Sparknotes version of the products, rituals, and moments your favorite celebrities and influencers swear by—their go-tos, must-haves, and can’t-live-withouts. So go ahead—take a brief, intimate peek into the lives of your favorites through the things (and people, and moments) they hold dear.
It’s impossible not to be captivated by Ari Lennox. The R&B singer’s passionate, soulful voice immediately seizes your attention on tracks like “Pressure” and “Shea Butter Baby,” making you feel every lyric she’s crooning. Outside of music, Lennox’s fans (two million and counting on Instagram) have become equally enamored with her as an individual, gravitating to her because of her refreshing candor and comedic nature. Not to mention, she’s quite the beauty muse, becoming known for sporting her gorgeous 4C curls and chic protective styles.
Lennox’s celebration of her natural hair and vocalness about her hair journey is what makes her most recent partnership with KISS Colors & Care especially fitting. As the brand’s newest ambassador, Lennox is helping to spotlight two of her favorite products—Edge Fixer Extreme, formulated for 4C hair, and the beloved Edge Fixer Wax Stick. “I’ve been a fan of KISS since I was young,” she says. “I always used the brand’s press-on nails and false eyelashes. I was so excited and impressed when they decided to create hair products. I am honored that they would want me to represent them.”
Ahead, Lennox discusses her hair care routine, new single, and self-care habits as a busy musician.
The One Thing She Does to Keep Her Hair Healthy
“I’ve had an interesting [hair journey]. I’ve honestly decided to pull back when it comes to products. I’ve just been using oils and spring water to moisturize my hair.”
The One Hairstyle She Loves to Wear
“I’m afraid that too much manipulation will break my hair off, so I just go for the simplest styles like half up, half down, or a wig. My hair has been thriving; the less I do to it, the longer it gets. So, I’m a lot more protective over my hair these days.”
The One Thing She Uses to Style Her Hair
“I use the new Edge Fixer Extreme when wearing my hair pulled back or doing a simple pineapple. It’s my go-to when I want to do a few swoops and elevate my hairstyle.”
The One Thing a Hairstylist Taught Her
“They always encourage me to do protective styles and leave my hair alone. Also, I don’t play about the ends of my hair because they’re the oldest part of the hair strand, so I protect them with KISS Colors & Care’s satin scarves and bonnets.”
The One Hairstyle She Wants to Do
“I really want to do a buss down weave—they’re so gorgeous. I’ve never been able to find weave that blends perfectly with my hair, though.”
The One Thing She Does to Care for Her Skin
“I need to develop a skincare routine. I’ve been dragging my feet when it comes to doing that. Lately, I’ve been using coconut oil on my face.”
The One Thing She’s Looking Forward to In Her Music Career
“I’m so excited to drop my new single, ‘Smoke.’ It came about during an incredible moment in the studio, and we all had fun creating it. At that moment, I was feeling a way because sometimes I go through things on the internet, and people piss me off. This song allowed me to turn my anger into something beautiful and productive. With this song, I’m leaning into a side I try to suppress. I’m a sweet girl, but I can get mad sometimes and just want to own that part of myself.”
The One Thing She’s Doing for Self-Care
“I just got back from Cabo. It was a beautiful trip, but I was dealing with an emergency with my dog and was stressed. So, I hope to have more relaxing Caribbean vacations. For self-care, I also like to get massages, drink chamomile tea, play Sims 3, listen to true crime podcasts, and watch thriller movies.”