George Johnson, pioneering black hair care founder, dead at 99
Business
July 7, 2026
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George E Johnson, the Chicago entrepreneur behind brands including Afro Sheen, Ultra Wave and Classy Curl, and often credited with transforming Black hair care in the United States (US), died on Monday at age 99, according to a family statement.
US media are reporting that Johnson, the founder of Johnson Products Company, passed away due to a respiratory illness.
A report from NBC News noted that in 1954, when many companies ignored Black consumers, the Johnson Products Company was founded to cater to African Americansâ hair, fashion and cosmetics.
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