As a hair practitioner, my career has granted me the extraordinary opportunity to work with women from diverse backgrounds, each with their unique hair types. Throughout my journey, I have come to realize that irrespective of texture or style, the ultimate goal for everyone is to attain healthy, luscious locks that radiate confidence and beauty. In recent years, I have witnessed a remarkable shift in the perception of natural hair, particularly among African American women.
Gone are the days when natural hair was deemed unconventional or unfit for certain environments. Today, it has emerged as a powerful fashion statement, breaking barriers and even finding acceptance in the corporate world. Women are fearlessly embracing their natural beauty, proudly sporting stunning fro’s, elegant twists, chic locks, and pairing them with stylish suits that exude professionalism and self-assurance.
However, amid this celebration of natural hair, a prevailing misconception has taken hold. It is commonly believed that natural hair, untainted by chemicals or heat treatments, is inherently healthier than chemically treated or thermally infused hair. Yet, in my salon, I have observed an increasing influx of natural hair clients seeking my assistance due to issues like hair breakage and damage. It appears that some individuals have fallen into the trap of assuming that natural hair is “carefree” and demands less tender loving care (TLC) solely because it lacks chemical treatments. But let me assure you, this assumption couldn’t be further from the truth.
Wet, Weak, and Wild: Unveiling the Truth about Natural Hair and its Fragile State
Let me dispel this myth once and for all: natural hair does not equate to healthier hair. In fact, when you’re wearing a natural style, you often manipulate your hair more, especially when it’s wet. Did you know that hair is at its weakest when wet? This is because the salt and hydrogen bonds that give hair its strength and elasticity are broken when you shampoo or wet your hair. The “salt bond” is responsible for hair’s ability to stretch and return without breaking, while the “hydrogen bond” allows hair to change shape with the aid of water, like when you do roller sets, twists, or knots. Therefore, it is imperative to have the right tools and techniques when styling your natural hair.
Always remember to detangle your hair by combing from ends to scalp. This technique prevents unnecessary shedding and breakage. Regularly trimming your ends is also crucial for retaining length as your hair grows. Regardless of the style you choose, professional maintenance is paramount and goes hand in hand with healthy hair. So, does natural hair mean healthier hair? The answer is a resounding no! Your hair requires care and attention, regardless of its natural state.
Here’s a natural hair care tip: replenish your hair’s moisture levels with moisturizing shampoos and conditioners. Natural hair has a tendency to become dry and brittle, so it’s essential to provide it with the hydration it needs to thrive. Don’t be fooled by the misconception that natural hair is automatically healthy. Just like any other hair type, it requires proper care and maintenance.
From Hair Loss to Hair Boss: Embracing the Journey to Healthy and Radiant Locks
As a hair loss advocate who has personally experienced and triumphed over hair loss, I understand the importance of treating your hair with the utmost care and respect. Embrace your natural beauty, but remember that maintaining healthy hair is a journey that requires effort and dedication. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance and invest in high-quality products tailored to your hair’s specific needs. With the right knowledge and care, you can have the healthy, radiant hair you’ve always dreamed of.
Natural hair does not automatically mean healthier hair. It’s essential to debunk this myth and educate ourselves on the proper care and maintenance required for all hair types. Let’s continue embracing our natural beauty while understanding the significance of nurturing our hair for optimal health and vitality.