I don’t plan to relax, why? For one I don’t need one extra thing to do every 6 weeks and my fine strands are better without the added chemicals. But what if you aren’t like me and you want to relax your hair? Nowadays we feel pressure in our heads to stay true to the journey, stick it out no matter what, sistahs with curls for life and all that jazz.
We don’t exist in a bubble, the reality is people will have something to say no matter what you choose to do. If you are natural but you straighten all the time that’s a problem, if you have 4C natural hair but you like 3C textured wigs*, you don’t like yourself, or if you color your hair pastel blue then you are a rebel and cant ever get a job that makes more than 7.25 and hour.
These judgments and opinions can get a tad bit annoying so you have been secretly thinking about relaxing but you don’t dare voice your thoughts out loud. You look at your natural hair, you love it but you simply prefer your relaxed hair.
The natural journey is a good thing, you admit that but you want something else. Listen, I get it, we all do even the ones that pass judgement, we are women who change our minds often, and while some women might truly hate their natural hair you know you are not that girl. With that said here are 3 solid reasons you should not care if you decide to relax your natural hair again.
1. Your regimen and goals will not change much
If you really know your hair, and I mean really know about how it works, “the science behind the strand” you will know that the regimen you had for your natural hair should remain fully intact for your relaxed hair journey minus the relaxer application.
Your hair will still need moisture; it will still need protein, porosity still remains relevant in your life, co washing will always be your thing to do mid week, protective styling at winter time remains something you will do each year.
Going natural has forced us to face hair knowledge dead in the face, we don’t just put the fate of our hair in the hair dresser, we ask questions and we know what to do when we cant make it to our favorite salon spot.
If your goal is healthy hair, that doesn’t change now that you are relaxed. You know the state of your hair with a relaxer and you know how to keep retaining length each month.
Of course some things will be added to your regimen; you will have to actually relax your hair, and you will have to decide what schedule to maintain for relaxing so that you keep your hair safe.
Olivia Williams says
I’m seriously thinking about going back to relaxed. I enjoyed my relaxed.
Melissa says
I tried natural and I’m just not pleased with my texture and the extra work, so I’m going back to my relaxer Friday. I have decided to opt for healthy hair and stretch my relaxers rather than every 6 weeks.
Andrea MoonPearl Banks says
Lobbying for the perm industry owned by whites? Being natural for me is a joy. Sure I have my trying moments but wouldn’t trade the lushness, fullness and curls for anything! To each his own though.
Shana Smith says
MOST natural hair care products on the market right now that we buy OTC are manufactured through white companies. Everything is not a black or white issue.
Andrea MoonPearl Banks says
I make my own from scratch. I realize that too. Just my opinion.
Malakah Angellia Gladston says
EVERYTHING is a black and white issue. The delusions
Macey Rose says
“Owned by whites” how classy of you Andrea!
Pheadra Pic says
Not the hair products I use….Black owned.
Danielle Payne Alexander says
I absolutely love this article! So on point! Bottom line do what’s best for you and your hair.
Shalonda Lee Hood says
1 reason is because it’s your hair and your choice. Another reason is because it’s your hair and your choice. And the 3rd and final reason is because it’s your hair and your choice. Who cares?
Shantee Bowman says
I wish I could repost your comment lol
Alicia Anderson says
Lol very good reasons lol
Stewie McPrude says
Lmao! Literally lol
Elleuqcar L Selrahc says
haha exactly
Idaofdreams Beautifulme says
Three thumbs up
Brittney Pearson says
And let the church say “Amen! Amen! Amen!”
Cee Cee Hye says
Amen amen.
Jordann Alease says
Yeah its your choice to relax your hair but we should encourage being natural not encourage being relaxed. All other types of women are fine wearing their hair “natural” Relaxing your hair today is just a personal choice but there is no denying it’s steeped in eurocentric beauty standards and we need to get away from it.
Jordann Alease says
Verrrrrrrry few white women perm their hair and all white women who perm their hair do it strictly on a preference.Their mothers didn’t perm their hair. They weren’t called ugly for having straight hair. They don’t get kicked out of school for straight hair. Black women are different because for so long kinky/curly hair was seen as a bad trait. There are still black women who detest their natural hair and it really needs to stop. Yes do what you want that makes you happy like I stated before but let’s not encourage perms anymore.I’m not saying that people can’t do what they want but let’s encourage black women to embrace their natural hair.
Rivian Jones says
I’m not encouraging that I’m encouraging a black woman to do what works for her natural is not for everybody.
Jordann Alease says
The problem with that is that natural is for everyone that’s how you were born so it’s got to work for everyone. it’s gonna be beautiful on everyone. I think it’s the most beautiful way you could be is just by being yourself. Now whether you like it or not and decide to perm it that’s none of anyone’s business.
Byg Byrd says
I get what you mean @Jordan…when i see little girls with relaxers, it’s heart breaking. Let them make that decision when they’re old enough to make their own haircare decisions. But don’t bias them against natural hair by shielding them from something that’s innate within them. Grown women, do as you please. Paint your heads purple, i don’t care.
Toni Norville Meaderis says
Jordann Alease
If it’s not anyone’s business then I don’t need you to tell me that I was “born” natural(I already know that), that it will “work/got to” work for me. Will “work” in this context: easy to manage, does not interfere with your daily routine and/or if i want to look beautiful natural is the best way. What you are doing is telling me what to do as if you know what’s best for me as a black woman. My dear at 54 I think I know what’s best for me. I’ve heard this argument since I was a teenager this debate is nothing new. In the sixties as young girls our hair was straightened to make it more manageable for our mothers. During the seventies, however, is when this argument got intense because it Involved career choices and what women of color had to do to be “acceptable”. But my lovely dear those women did what they needed to do to get in then they paved the way for more women of color to break through that’s when you effect a change in the perception that only straight makes us beautiful or if you prefer natural does not. You show that natural is just as beautiful “NOT MORE” let me repeat this “NOT MORE” but “JUST AS” beautiful on women of color. As a matter of fact I wore my hair in an afro for most of the seventies. And when I had it straightened every now in then I had no clue on how to care or style it. So some of us had the opposite problem of today knowing how to care for straight hair instead of how to care for natural. And as time when by women of color found that straightened or relaxed hair was easier to care for. Mostly because, through no fault of their own, women grew up not seeing or knowing about natural and admittedly natural was still viewed by some as unacceptable occurring mostly in the corporate/business work place. And then having your hair in “french” braids were considered natural and acceptable. Hair has a history all of its own and that history is very woven into the history of the black women. And it was because of those histories and the struggles that have increased our knowledge and pride in “ourselves” as a whole woman not just our hair. It’s those histories and struggles that gave us choices and it’s those histories and struggles that make your statement offensive and wrong.
First of all, you lumped all black women together as a whole. What about the woman of color who has straight hair “naturally” (and not o mixed race) are you saying that because their hair isnt kinky they are less beautiful. What about curly hair? As your statment reads you do because the worlds perception of natural is kinky or very tightly curled. It’s wrong and not fair but it is what it is. You have devalued not only a group of women but women of color. I have naturally curly hair that I had to tease into the afro I wore in the70’s as I carried my “cake cutter comb” in the back pocket of my jeans.
Darling dear, I have always felt beautiful, looked beautiful and I am beautiful. Why? Because i had women in my life who had confidence and joy in themselves. I had a father who taught me how a man should treat me like thee queen I am. I had role models in the public eye who were articulate and comfortable in their skin and it showed.
I prefer my hair no I love my hair straight, long and blonde. Been that way since I was 45. AND I AM BEAUTIFUL, I FEEL BEAUTIFUL I LOOK BEAUTIFUL( I know I’m gonna get an ear full for that bit of info. Do I give a rats fat a$$ nope. My hair my body my hair my choice my hair) Do my preferences make me any less black, nope. Do i like my hair this way cause I’m trying to look and be white, nope. Do I keep it this way for any man woman or child nope. I do it for me and only me. Cause I like it. Don’t get me wrong I know there are many women who struggle with their self-image, who didn’t have the same family and or role models or what ever the case may be. That’s why i give back.That why I teach the young girls and women in my life to be confident, how to comb and style their hai4 for all situations whether they have natural or straight, to view themselves as beautiful and confident, to speak properly, how to dress properly for different situations using what they have in their closet, how to properly set a table and eat at the table etc. By knowing these things believe it or not actually builds confidence, a sense of self pride self beauty, worth and drive to do better. To get that degree and to come back and pass the knowledge. To be able to move and advance and know how to blend in different circles so they can help open doors for other women of color who wear their hair natural or straight. When we stop tearing each other down and work toward building each other up as women of color we can achieve so much more.
And lumping us together in one group and saying your only beautiful natural, knowing the perception is kinky you and so many other who have said kinky is the only way a woman of color can be beautiful are doing us a disservice.
I said all that to say this. If something is just your opinion try opening your statement with: “In my opinion”
Anne says
In my opinion, you are right on point! Do you, because no one else can
-A says
Amen!
Thick Nette says
Uh, no it really dosent look good on everybody! If you don’t like the way you look with straight hair, that’s you. Maybe some people don’t like the way they look with kinky hair. Therefore, it’s not for them. No one is completely natural. Why all the make up then? Why the deodorant? Don’t you like your natural smell? The list goes on. I’m natural but I don’t try to tell people what’s for them. That’s their choice.
Jordann Alease says
Thick, the word natural applies to hair. You are arguing semantics which proves nothing. Smelling bad and not wearing deodorant is not socially acceptable that’s why we change it. Curly/kinky/coily hair isn’t socially acceptable and is just starting to become this way that’s why it should be encouraged. How is your own healthy hair not going to look good on you? Have I seen people who look a mess with damaged natural hair? Yes but that’s not really natural hair it’s damaged. But I’ve never seen a woman who takes proper care of her natural hair look a mess. Whether you like it or change it or not doesn’t matter. Everyone’s own natural hair is beautiful.
Jordann Alease says
@toni I never made the argument that having relaxed hair made you “less black” I don’t believe that women relax their hair to look white but historically they did. I believe there are still negative connotations to kinky/curly hair and there is no denying that the practice is rooted in eurocentric beauty standards. Nor did I make the argument that having natural hair is the only way you can be beautiful. I never made the argument that innate liberation is directly achieved with natural hair. Frankly I don’t believe in such arguments. That’s why I said in MY opinion that black women look the MOST beautiful with natural hair. I’ve straightened my hair and I look beautiful but I feel that I look the most beautiful with my natural hair.
Thick Nette says
Whatever. I’m just so tired of black folks finding was to separate themselves. Telling other people what’s right for them. Telling them what they should and should not be doing to THEIR hair! I don’t relax and haven’t since 1998 but I don’t tell anyone what I think is right and healthy for them. That’s their head! Not liking your hair kinky dosent mean you want to be white in most cases. It just means you can find better things to do with your time than spend hours on your hair. Some people don’t have the patience. I just worry about my nappy head! To each his own.
Thick Nette says
Ways I meant
Jordann Alease says
I didn’t say what other people should do, I didn’t say that it means you “want to be white” you can take that up with someone else. I simply said that as a community natural hair should be encouraged. Never made a statement about an individual.
Kameo Williams says
Its just hair it grows back. You can always change your mind.
Mieshel Jett says
Of course Andrea MoonPearl Banks, you can get perms here for the low! Lol I agree to each his own..but for me, I’m good..natural it is!
Frances Rhodes says
Its just not the same , even tho I struggle with my hair. I dread doing a relaxer two or three times a year. I also hate having to use flat irons. I really feel as it I’m burning my hair. It bring me to tears more than my natural hair.
Shana Smith says
There is nothing wrong with having relaxed hair period. There is nothing wrong with having natural hair. There is nothing wrong with wearing weave. Hair is hair! If someone wanted to wear a live cat on top of their head I would go for it.
Kimberly Copeland says
lol
Maureen Brown says
lol
Cosmo Ellon says
Live cat would be fun
Tshego Masemola says
I love my hairline. No crazy Crack for me thanks.
Tianna Jarrett-Williams says
It’s your hair it grows on your head. Don’t let nobody tell you what to do with it. High time we stopped judging each other when everyone else does a great job at judging us.
Trevia Myles says
Why do we need an article telling us what we choose to do with our own head of hair is ok? Does it matter? Smh
Dana-Marie Harris says
“Our” point. I’m tired of having to defend others. No one should be on trial for what she chooses to do with her OWN hair. Period. The whole “you are self hating blah blah blah….but I’m just sharing my opinion” is the most serious shade. An opinion unasked for is a judgment. But….that’s just MY opinion though.
Jazmine Rain says
I cut my hair in Sep its easier in my opinion to manage relaxed hair but im gonna try and stick with natural for at least a year and see if I get better with this
Courtney Gray says
Relaxed is boring. Just straighten it and dont put chemicals in it
Jennifer Price says
The thing I think some folks don’t realize is some of us relaxed folks DO wanna go natural – if for no other reason than curiosity. I deeply want to try it. But when you got relaxed hair past your shoulders and it’s working for you, it’s a lot to change your entire regimen TO SEE IF MAYBE you like being natural and can afford the time commitment of it. When your hair reaches a certain length, you got a lot to loose. It’s not always a self hatred issue.
Jennifer Price says
And actually even if it WAS self hatred, you need to help folks up, not run them down. That doesn’t help at all.
Pattie Armstead says
Stay with what’s working for you.
Some in natural hair community are hateful an hypocrites.
Just because you are not natural has nothing to do with self-hate.
I see some who have natural hair and I want to dunk it in some shampoo and oil-look a mess!
So if your relaxed hair is working for you keep it.
Have a good day!
Jenelle Toliver says
Truthfully, I am used to bone straight relaxed hair. I am only three months into my transition and I don’t believe “Natural” is for me. I was curious but now I am just frustrated. All of your points are correct. I am not interested in cutting my MBL hair. I’m trying to stick it out but I purchased a relaxer.
Yolanda says
Some words of encouragement…stick with “going natural” as long as you can. It takes a while to get it right. Try to remember why you decided to transition in the first place. I have been using some natural products for a while (justnaturalskincare.com) and some I just recently found (nattynaturals.com, kjnaturals.com and alikaynaturals.com-the leave-in may change your life lol). I only use all natural hair products (my skin is very sensitive so I can’t really use chemicals and synthetic products). I transitioned for the fourth and final time in my life starting Dec 2012. The second time I transitioned for 1 year and 4 months. My hair was shoulder length when I started and ended up with bra strap before I went back to texturizer. I didn’t do too much differently than when I was texturizing. I still straightened my hair when I wanted to, I did bantu knot outs, and braid outs. I still wasn’t comfortable wearing a big blowout/afro or a wash n go. If I could go back in time I would have never texturized again. I may have hair done to my waist. I noticed this time around was not as easy as the other times. But many things were different mainly I stopped using products with silicones without realizing they were protecting my hair from heat ( I don’t use silicones anymore and I rarely heat style but when I do I use natural heat protectants) and I was going through a lot of physical and emotional stress (still am). I hated the two textures and I was transitioning from texturized hair. I cut my chemical treated ends 7 months in and I did not like my frizzy, dry hair. But I stuck it out. I almost 2 years post texturizer and 1 year 3 months since I cut my ends and I am truly loving my hair because well, it’s mine. I will never go back to any chemicals (relaxers, temporary straightening treatments, color/dyes-only did twice) I am trying to be more conscious of what I put on and in my body. Good luck what ever you chose to do!
Neeky Lethallady Henry says
Exactly
Jennifer Price says
I feel you Jenelle Toliver. Because once you reach a certain length, a lot of the time you don’t want to big chop. And dealing with two radically different textures of hair on one head can be a nightmare – and potentially lead to breakage. If you don’t wanna wear braids and weaves for a couple years, you can easily feel stuck. And who wants to go through all that effort and still maybe decide they don’t like natural or don’t have time or convenience for it?
Bar Bara says
Word
Amira Yusef says
I personally do not care what any one does with their one hair but just wondering why would they after being natural. I mean most claim they went natural due to damage from the perm. well do you think the second time around no damaged.
Tremaine Gibson says
I think u should care! Relaxers are NOT healthy for your hair. Think about it…u have to wear gloves to apply something to your scalp. What sense does that make?!?! Embrace your natural hair and if I want to wear it straight there are ways of doing it without relaxing.
Shayla Hicks says
She ^^^ does make a very VALID point!!…. the use of gloves…. hmmmm…. more people need to seriously wake up….
Debbie Cakes says
I mean it’s a chemical period so yea gloves would be necessary. Skin is way more susceptible to any irritation than hair. A Relaxer once or twice a year isn’t killing anyone. Most if us here wore relaxers for years and were just fine. Even if it warned “immediate death if used” on the box, if that’s ones choice, let her die happy!
Tremaine Gibson says
Chemical…on the scalp…nuff said…
Latisha Cuban Pete Heiwajima says
No because you go natural
Go through all that work and eventually adapt to it
& then the perm damages / breaks off your hair
Ruining all that hard work
I’m done with perms
Raquel Jacquelyn Prescott says
Absolutely tired of seeing comments from people concerning the hair of OTHERS. The way your hair is styled and handled does not add on or take away your heritage as a black woman. Just saying.
Mychelle Naturalust says
One little article about relaxed hair now everyone wants a relaxer, just be HAPPY with the texture hair GOD has given you….
Mychelle Naturalust says
Why is it that only black woman are embarrassed about their natural hair?????
Chanèl Renee says
I always wonder the same thing too .
Jamina Kess Benjamin says
They are embarrassed because society has scrutinized just about everything that a black person has or does. That, unfortunately, leaves a bad mark. I have overheard some, not all black men, say they don’t want to be with a nappy-headed woman. That’s what is the most hurtful. Or, I have also heard some, not all black women say,’so and so can’t wear their hair natural because they don’t have the”right” hair texture’, or they say it about themselves. We have to do better about how we treat each other within our own race!
Kimberly Copeland says
No one is embarrassed. Maybe they just don’t want too. I hate when people think they can speak for all black women and this is coming from a natural for over 7 years.
Shanika Staci Sutton says
wanting to wear your hair straight is self hate, guess I should throw away my flat irons too? Since it might encourage the hate
Turrelle Sims says
Bs
Hrh Manye Korkor Darlyn says
Lies they tell us. It’s less risky going natural. Chemicals used in the relaxers are harmful to your health. Maybe a little research into these things will open your eyes and embrace your natural hair.
Latisha White says
If we could just accept each others differences…hear people out and keep it pushing. I am natural and have been for 3 years now. I love my hair! Its beautiful natural and relaxed. However, I have thought about going back to a relaxer because when I get stressed, I don’t have the energy, to give my hair the attention that it needs… I want to unwrap and go. Plus, im not so creative with hair styles. I really don’t care what others do with their either but once I do research about anything, I do like to share…with that being said the decision is yours boo! Its your thing, do what you wanna do lol…aye
Darlene Waller says
thank you for this article, it truly spoke to those it needed to.
Nakita Moore says
How about everyone do what’s right for them and not care what others think? It’s your hair. Whatever you do to it, you have to live with it. Live for yourselves and not others.
Stewie McPrude says
I’ve done the journey twice. It doesn’t fit my schedule…plus the way my lazy is set up, I had to go back or walk around looking like a natural don’t. I love the look of natural hair but the work ain’t for me.
Kasie Alexandria says
If you want to go natural that’s your choice and that’s fine I like my hair being permed and straight and that’s my choice either way your putting chemicals in your hair straight or natural at the end of the day do what makes you happy…
Tiera Nicole Betts says
I’ve been getting perms for years. Never had any problems. My hair has always been healthy it depends on how you take care of it. I’ve wore it long. I’ve had it cut super short. It’s based on how you feel you want to wear your hair not if you’re trying to be white or give in to what the world feels you should look like. So now everyone that wants to go natural claims it takes away my heritage as a black women because I have chemicals in my hair. … really? last time I woke up I was still black and still had to fight the stereotypes we all have to face being a black woman in America. . .
Yolonda Spead says
Agree, %100!
SpeciaLady Adams says
You are right on point…..I sometimes have been made to feel as if those that decided to go natural consider themselves more cultural than myself but they cater almost tear the skin off their knees when a white person enters the room….unbelievable
Tiera Nicole Betts says
It’s crazy some of the comments I read on a daily basis. I explained to one of my friends that it doesn’t fit me. Her response was it the hair God gave you. Ok cool but he also gave me perm too. I ask her when did she go natural because some of these “naturalist” haven’t had hair their whole life and just recently got some and feel the need to tell me about mine.
Shanice Munchingdem Catchindemfeels says
God gave you the perm??? Smh
Lucie Jorite says
To me wear your hair the way you feel like. In my country we’re lucky we don’t need to show who’s cultural or not. No one cares. And no one needs to prove anything to white people or whoever. Not much cares of your attitude, lifestyle, color or hair. Lol just be yourself
Loka NoLabel Jackson says
God provided the means to make a perm! I.e the chemicals!
Desiree Norville says
I love natural hair. My own preference. I’ve always worn perms. Nothing wrong there. But I notice something different about my hair being natural this time. Its growing like crazy. Over time the perm weakened my sides and now I don’t have that problem. The only problem with the natural hair is I’m much more tenderheaded. Still love natural.
Bar Bara says
I think every one can decide what they do with they hair. I transitioned twice and I just figure out that natural hair is nothing for me. I like my hair but I am just to lazy to do my hair and it is easier for me to manage it when it is relaxed. I am relaxed now and my hair still have body and I must say it is softer then before
Jo Anne says
I love my natural hair but would never be the type to condemn others for relaxing. Natural is not better. Relaxing is not better. It simply is what it is. It’s your head so do what right for you. Every person that I know personally who relaxes has some of the healthiest hair I’ve seen. They take great care of their hair. So relaxing isn’t bad. It’s simply a preference. Why do these threads even exist? They cause more harm than good.
Tiela Lewis says
Thank you sis. Very well put.
Pheadra Pic says
Natural is Better….who trying to Fool.
Jo Anne says
Honey your head is your head. Mine is mine. And theirs is theirs. The only fool are idiots attempting to put others down.
Tiela Lewis says
To each ‘her’ own. It’s called ‘choices’ ‘perogative’ Do you!
Andrea CallMe MsAquafina says
Im natural because im natural..
Chiquita Thomas says
I will never get another perm, but if that’s your thing, do it
Adrienne Bridges says
We have always had a choice.either way at sometime you need a professional trim and conditioner.Either one can be damaging to the hair if you don’t know what you’re doing
Kalynthea Cooper says
I despise the word creamy crack! Come on now, “crack!” Why do we create our own racial slurs?! Smh
Brenda Tucker says
One reason, it’s your hair.
Marjorie Brown says
10 years ago I went from natural to relaxed and the transition wasn’t that easy. I experienced a lot of hair loss. Now I’m back to my natural state. I’m staying natural. I prefer it.
Monica Thornton-Anderson says
Love both styles… I just think I’d feel like a traitor or like I’m giving in to some wild notion of ‘beauty’.. I think natural hair is beautiful, so if I wanted it straight, I’d straighten my NATURAL hair.. Why perm? What’s the point? I thought this site was about more then to perm or not to perm…more about self actualization, loving the skin God put us in and a place to share our journey with other like minded people. But this ‘Why you shouldn’t Care’..? I think you should care. A lot.
alicia says
Hair is hair and I agree with this article. You do what you want with your hair. There are always going to be relaxers who shame unprocessed hair and naturals who shame people who relax. Do you!
Sheri A Campbel says
I love my natural hair, as well as, my relaxed hair! It’s just hair…it shouldn’t define who you are!
Joanna Henrie says
Hair is hair ! Do wat u want Lol , wat ever makes u happy !
Renee Horne says
I loved my relaxed hair and I loved my natural hair.. relaxed hair was so much easier especially when you can wrap it and go or throw it in a pony tail.. Natural hair takes a lot of time, patience and dedication. . I started transitioning about a year ago.. It was very challenging at first because it is so much work to try to style it and go.. I didn’t have to do a big chop because i was already wearing short styles any ways so I ended up getting braids so I wouldn’t have have to faced styling my natural all the time and so I can get some length to my hair as well but to make a long story short, I’m so glad that I went natural because my hair is growing so fast.. When I had a perm, my hair was so damaged and the nape of my hair would never grow but now it is so long.. I haven’t had this much length since I’ve went natural.. I love styling my natural but I can say this, being natural is not for everyone though.. it does take dedication and patience.. So if you don’t have the time and patience then going natural is not for you.. I’m not here to say perm is bad for you because again I loved my permed hair as well but right now natural is for me.. oh before I started transitioning about a year ago, I was relaxed all my years started at age 16 and now I’m 43 and yes it was a big step for me. I do keep a cute wig handy when I don’t feel like doing my natural sometimes (lol) but most of the time, my natural is styled.. Stay beautiful my African sistas
Toya says
I totally love this article I think hair is hair I personally have been relaxed all my life and I looooovvee my hair and I don’t think relaxing my hair makes me hate myself or wanna be white as the writer said it’s just choosing chocolate over red velvet love this post
Asha Jamia says
It really doesn’t matter.
Tasha C Williams says
Everybody’s hair journey is different. Who am I to judge someone for what they choose to do with their hair. It’s growing from that persons head. If she decides to relax it then that’s her decision. I can’t make somebody stay natural if they don’t want to. Plus I’m not going to put down their decision because I don’t like it. I know plenty of women with relaxed healthy and long hair. They do everything I do plus and they add a relaxer every few months. I accept everyone’s chooses.
SpeciaLady Adams says
Never embarrassed and not submitting to anyone’s standards don’t have to fit in I’ve worn my hair both ways and still get the love cause I am flexible and not stuck in a cultural tradition my mind is free and clear, how I decide to wear my hair shows that…
Hrh Manye Korkor Darlyn says
People are making money from these toxins they call relaxer. It’s all about the money. Nobody cares so long as they get you hooked n get their money.
Sharniqua Baylock says
Shaquetta Baylock
Cb Sampson says
Whats the point of the journey then to get your hair healthy enough to put more chemicals on it. You can straighten your hair in its natural state without chemicals.
Che'Von Benton says
This is stressful. I’ll stick to natural and rock my weaves. Yeah that works for me. Everyone else can do as they please with their hair.
Bre Nicole Rain says
I took it to a different level I just plain out big chop.
Catherine Hall says
Well for me natural hair is better. Because i was able to grow out sections of my hair that were broken off
Jessica Flanigan says
Its their head, not mine. Just as long as I like my hair, whatever someone else does with theirs is ok with me.
China Anderson says
Don’t fall for it ladies. Natural hair has 9ether in it.. Your “naps” are more powerful than you can even fathom. On a side but related note a lot of our sisters have been having tumors removed from perms and relaxers. It’s not worth it to feed your self hate of wanting to look European.
Veniece Perkalicious says
Some people go natural but still live in weave & extensions then want to speak bad about others who relax their hair! If relaxed hair works for u… Do ur thing! If natural works… Do ur thing! But concentrate on urself!
Cee Cee Hye says
the first sentence…ita.
Terra Drane says
As a beautician I think all hair can be beautiful if you invest the time into it.
Cassie Gardner says
Smh. Why must we be so harsh to one another? Some think they’re educating when they’re actually being nasty and hurtful about how one chooses to rock THEIR hair. So relaxing your hair makes one “European” or “white” or “not cultural” or a lesser “black woman”? Are you serious? If I even gave any of those “opinions” any credibility, I would be dislike or be uncertain of myself. Let’s grow up, what that individual does to their hair is their business. It’s nice to suggest one particular regimen to someone but dont force your beliefs onto others or vice versa. I’ve tried both and both methods are work. Im very versatile with my hair styles in its natural and relaxed state. I be damned if I allow another individual sway me into how I deal with my hair when I’m the one who has to deal with it daily. I’ll take your opinion into consideration but to embrace it because you think it’s “right” is just some straight bs.
Cee Cee Hye says
Amen..they can’t hear you though.ever since the “natural movement” started..and since “they” exclude women with hair that has a looser curl..some “naturalistas” have become mean, judgemental and bitter. i don’t need anyone to tell me what to do with my hair. as the natural movement progresses, there will be more meaness and tearing one another down. half these folks have only been natural for a minute.
Dolly Carrington says
Well said!!!! I’ve had ppl tell me that putting heat to my hair was unnatural……I can’t tell you what I told them. Our ppl need to be concern about what’s in our head not so much about what’s on it!
Shawday says
I say we all just take hairfinity and be happy
LaTonya Smith says
When i had relaxed hair it never grew past my shoulders now im relaxed and its mid way my back. Natural hair is a struggle but the compliments and rewards are what keep ME natural. Im team hair..i love it all!
Cheryl Nieves says
No thank you, Ive been natural for 9 yrs, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it
Smith Baham says
I went natural from June-November. I broke down Saturday and put a mild “halo” in my hair. Felt like a criminal the entire time. Even though it’s more manageable, I still feel villainous.
Ednele Baptiste says
I have three reason.
1 It’s your hair.
2. It’s your darn hair.
3. It’s your… hair! Jeez.
Dee J. Chancellor says
I swear by relaxer because I understand what it takes to maintain healthy relaxed hair. My hair is naturally quite curly. Nice beautiful spirals but it is difficult to manage other than when it is wet. I relax/texturize to straighten my roots to have nice bouncy roller sets. To each her own. I personally prefer a more polished look and the natural look is just not my cup of tea but I don’t cut other women down who don’t relax it’s just stupid.
Kima-Shai Wooten says
Soooooo sick of the folks that degrade someone else by saying they are trying to look European or not embracing their “blackness” by not LOVING and ROCKING their natural hair! How dare you?! Guess what? Caucasian women alter their hair too, with a very chemical, lengthy process called a perm! It’s that woman’s hair to do with what she likes, and not your job to make her feel less than about it! I’ve been natural for three years, and I liked my relaxed hair way better than this! My hair was always healthy and grew like weeds! And it was sooooo much easier to get out the door! I have cancelled going places while natural because my hair looked ridiculous! But I’ll get it braided up again before I relax….or maybe one day I will relax after all! To each her own, period!!
Kelly Young says
Its just hair we just have to be comfortable in our presentation and what makes us feel good
Sherri Morrow says
My grandmother used to always say: “You worry about your own garden , and I’ll tend to mine”. Our hair, culturally, is amazing. How many other races have the options we have? It upsets to hear the negative comments when someone makes a choice that is all their own.
Brittney Holland says
What’s the point in going natural if you’re just going to cover it with a weave? Your still trying to be somebody you’re not.
Nahjae Johnson says
Relaxer is just a process to gain a desired style same as straightening, blow outs or flat irons. They are all used for this straight look. So there really is no need for the whole Natural vs. Relaxed battle. If it grows from your head and its not sewn, glued or braided in then it is your NATURAL HAIR. If this were not the case then we all who use any product other than water are not 100% natural. After all, even shampoo has chemicals in it right? Just do what makes you happy. We are the only race blessed with versatile hair. Embrace that.
Shana Smith says
Amen!
Cb Sampson says
When will people realize it is a health issue applying chemicals to your head which seep into your brain is not healthy if their was no health issues I would say that’s cool do what you want but since I don’t get rich from selling you relaxer I say think about it before you do it of course they are not gonna tell you its dangerous Yes it is your hair but research the facts and make a informed choice Knowledge is power Lye can cause damage to surfaces and people even when it says no lye it has some in it be smart. The primary users of relaxers 90% are black women.
Willie Jernagin says
Its your hair, go and vote today.
Dolly Carrington says
Amen!!!!!!We’re too busy worrying about petty shyt while the GOP is making sure we never get equal pay, attempting to occupy our uterus, shipping jobs overseas and making a common core disaster of our children’s education system!
Cookie Lee Shae says
I perm my hair every 4 months. It’s my choice, I still take care of my hair. Doing it just natural breaks my hair off. I do what’s best for me. I wear wigs so I don’t damage my hair with weave & glue. Team Natural leave Team Relaxed alone; Team Relaxed leave Team Natural alone. Do what makes you happy and don’t knock anyone else for their choice.
Elvenlen BriteEyez Harvey says
My hair is naturally relaxed! I did without a relaxer for nine months, it was ok, now its relaxed, that’s ok too…either way i kept/keep it well maintained…now I’m debating whether or not I’m going to do the naturalness again…..whatever makes me happy! But i will say relaxing too much will thin and break your hair, so keep it to a minimal…I’m doing twice a year at the most!! I’m just saying…Be happy with whatever you decide to do with your hair, as long as you are taking care of it!
Stenesha Richardson-Walton says
Yesss sis I am about to read
Kimberly Williams says
I’ve said from the beginning natural is what natural is TO YOU. For some, the ease a relaxer gives to just wrap at night and go in the morning is appealing. When I was relaxed I loved having constant shine and swing to my hair. I miss it. I also really like my natural hair. It’s definitely more work though…to me. I know one person who already relaxed after several years natural and two more who are considering it. Nothing wrong with either way. Do you and rock it with sass.
NeeCee Simmons says
Agreed
NeeCee Simmons says
Omg please stop with the natural vs relaxed war. Do you ladies as long as it’s healthy hair
KeKe Vinson says
I miss my wrap and go too, lol. I’m in love with my nappy journey though. I’ve relaxed twice and had to start over twice. The 3rd time is a charm. I’m 5 years in this time.
Lillian Heart says
Just an excuse people must not know the dangers of the chemicals used in perms please educate yourself and then decide… God gave you perfectly good hair look in the mirror and embrace his creation
Lynette Dawson says
I never had a. Relax or a perm in my hair . The only I but in shampooer and hair conditions cut my hair that all I need . And my hair growing and looking good.
Alicia Jordan says
I have almost tailbone length relaxed hair. I wouldn’t even attempt to stop with as much hair as I have. I’d lose that battle for sure. I personally like my hair straight so I continue to relax. I like the ease of maintenance. I love the style choices.And on a silly note I love the “What kind of hair is that” question I so often get. On a more serious note I prefer to respect others choices because its nothing I can control. I’ve found an awesome way to care for my hair that keeps healthy and thriving. I wouldn’t dare gather the audacity to preach my opinions about someone else’s hair and I refuse to have it done to me. Hence the saying, “DO YOU!”
A. Arnold says
I am SO TIRED of Black women passing judgement on something as trivial as hair! I big chopped and was natural for a year and a half before returning to a relaxer. I spent hundreds of dollars on natural products, and endless hours on YouTube learning styling techniques and proper care. I wasted too much time, money, and effort on something I was NEVER happy about! My hair is healthier, fuller, and longer now with a relaxer than it ever was natural. In my natural state, dryness and shedding prevailed. My point is, not everything is for everyone. Stop “bullying” those that choose methods different than yours! It’s no indication of someone’s self worth or racial awareness. It’s simply a matter of preference.
And as a side note, I’ve had lots of Naturals tell me how unhealthy and “poisonous” relaxers are, yet inhale Flaming Hot Cheetos, fried foods, and Pesi. If you’re going to push the argument of health, make sure ALL areas of your life are in alignment with proper health!
Carol says
I went BACK to a relaxer on jan 3rd and I HAVE NO REGRETS! I was natural for 2 years and when I got my hair cut I had about 3 inches of DEAD ENDS! I trimmed my hair but as I am MOVING up the corporate ladder at work I felt MY hair didn’t represent me. I love my straight hair so just DO YOU! You can call it creamy crack, toxins, poison etc BUT NO one pays my bills or walks in my shoes. Ladies DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY!
paul133 says
My wife’s family are from morocco and women there have quite thick hair and like to find softening/relaxing? products. The natural option that has been used there for centuries and is said to give softer hair is “Rhassoul Clay”. It is a natural earth clay that was used traditionally to wash ( and clean ) hair . Thats right a mud/clay that cleans you hair ( heard of the “Himba” people ). It also benefits the scalp and is said to give softer hair. It is a bit alkaline and so after “washing” it is recommended to do a rinse using “apple cider vinegar” ( cheap and available at pmost supermarkets. This counteracts the alkaline clay and gives a final glossy shine. Found this and more info on this web site ( They dont sell the clay but I think they give it away or you could find it elsewhere ) Must be Moroccan Rhassoul Clay! not any other type. Anyway read up here … http://arganoildirect.com/guide-to-rhassoul-clay-for-skin-hair