Believe it or not, there was a time when natural hair as we know it today, was not as prevalent as it has become. Black women had options for hair care that did not include wearing their hair in its natural state. And even if they did force that option into the equation, it often meant an unmoisturized TWA, wearing a fade, or locs.
Thankfully, over the past few years, the natural hair movement took off. It went from what seemed like a passing fad, to a full-blown lifestyle. Products improved, information was easily disseminated thanks to social media platforms, styling options increased drastically and pride in the newfound acceptance of black natural hair took over.
It’s an amazing thing to have witnessed. I cut all my hair off and stopped relaxing my hair back in 2008. At the time, the natural hair community was definitely growing, but it was nowhere near as strong as it is today. The term ‘big chop’ was not even one I was familiar with when I buzzed all my hair off my head.
Natural hair is great, but as we have now had some time to reflect and assess, it’s not for everybody. Along the path of its growth, the natural hair movement collected a few staunch proponents that some have named Natural Hair Nazi’s. That’s a bit harsh, but there are the subtle undertones of disapproval that come from those who have a dream for every black person to wear their hair without adding any chemicals.
That dream is fine to have, but you don’t have to wear your hair natural if you don’t want to. Natural hair just may not be for you. Let’s look at what goes into deciding if natural hair is really for you.
Lifestyle
One of the most important factors in deciding on a hairstyle or a haircut is your lifestyle. What do you do on a daily basis? Where are you required to be? How much time do you have to devote to the maintenance of your hair? And, how does the hairstyle you choose play into all of it?
These questions will yield answers that differ for every single person who asks them. Your chosen profession, how many children you have, the part of the world you live in and the elements you’re exposed to…all those things matter.
Think about whether natural hair is practical when it comes to how you live your life.
This article is nonsense. We are finally beginning to believe that our hair is not a bondage. You are suggesting that we move it back into that category. We are finally embracing our natural beauty just like women of any culture. We now feel free to wear our natural hair just like women of all other ethnicities.
It is nonsense to say that we should consider first our lifestyle or where we work or how many kids we have. That’s not “natural”. I wonder how many non-black women do that. We should be free to do whatever the hell we want to do with our hair…like all the other women in the world…. whether we STAY NATURAL OR CHOOSE TO GET THE UNNATURAL PERM.
Black woman liberate yourselves and do with “your hair” whatever the hell you want
You are speaking from a place of emotions and feelings as opposed to being logical about what is required to grow and maintain healthy natural hair. While everyone is free to do what they want with their hair, it is important to be realistic about the time and effort it takes to care for natural hair, especially as it pertains to the tighter more prone to tangling textures. I know that if I had a house full of small children or other commitments that were important to me, I would not be able to devote the hour it takes to properly detangle my coarse, dense 4c hair. And if I was very particular about how my hair looked at all times, I may not be satisfied with wearing twists all the time. Those things need to be taken into consideration, especially if one does not have the resources needed to pay someone else care maintain their hair, and intend to put the time and effort into developing the skills needed to do it themselves. You can certainly do whatever you want with your hair, but be realistic about what it is that you are willing to do.
This article sounds ridiculous . I work in a professional field and I have natural hair . My hair was NEVER a problem. I keep my hair in a bun all the time anyway . Also there are many natural hair styles other than twist outs such as buns , updos , roller set styles , etc are some styles that are appropriate for the professional work field . There is also a thing called weaves and wigs . You don’t have to straighten your hair to rock a bob you know . If your job wants you to straighten your hair then just wear a wig. Oh and by the way , I go to college and work and I still find time for my hair. I only detangle my hair on wash day. I just make sure to keep my hair moisturized and tangle free.