Now, this is only a question, as some are raising their eyebrows or giving this post the side eye, assuming I am here to insult but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I’m merely asking a question about protective styling that turns into more of a crutch or a staple than being protection for your hair.
I know we’ve seen Kermit all over the place so when I saw this meme I giggled at first because all the Kermit memes make me laugh but I also giggled because I knew this would strike a nerve with a few folks. Naturals are a rather touchy group, aren’t we?
We’ve been fighting for the right to wear our hair anyway we see fit in the workplace, out in public and even at home. We’ve been criticized by strangers, parents, lovers and bosses yet we manage to still be here and the community continues to grow at a stunning pace. I’m proud of that fact as most naturals are, so when we start seeing our unity busting at the seams it makes most of us a bit skittish. We don’t need the internal strife, but yet we have it and in some not so surprising ways. For instance:
Curl envy
Length envy
Who has been natural longer
And now the ‘are you really natural’ campaign that is getting louder and bigger. It used to be an issue discussed in small groups but with memes like the one above, it’s getting out there pretty quickly. It’s not the only question being asked of some so-called naturals but it’s the newest and actually it’s not getting nearly as much grief as other questions surrounding the title of natural.
With that said are you natural if you wear a wig*, weave or braided style year-round? I understand that you do not relax the hair growing from your scalp but it only comes out when you are getting ready to add more hair as a protective style. I remember when a protective style meant protecting your ends from the elements, clothing and over-manipulation but now, to some, completely covering your hair is the only protective style!
The thing is, isn’t that just covering it up? I get if you want to change up your hairstyle and go for the weave, wigs* or braids from time to time but if your hair is under added hair 95% of the time that’s not a protective style but rather just your hairstyle of choice.
When I was still relaxed but wore braids from time to time I didn’t relax my hair when I had them in of course. I would keep them in for almost 7 or 8 months on some stretches only taking them out to add new braids and although I never relaxed my hair during those times I never thought of myself as a natural woman.
Granted, this was over 15 years ago and the term natural didn’t even exist like it does now but I cannot see the difference between what I was doing back then and what women are doing now who are proudly shouting that they are team natural.
Terry Norman says
Duh natural isn’t whether you wear it or not. It’s just that your hair isn’t chemically altered. Because perms can cause health problems.
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
Gotta nurture your own strands too.
shameka says
so is it ok to call yourself team natural if you wear braid extensions 95% of the time or is that also not a natural since its not all my hair? So my kinky twists make me not team natural… or are we reserving this exclusion for weaves only? seems a bit arbitrary don’t u think!?… cause that same weaved up head, can take down her weave and you couldn’t say she was not team natural could you? so is she team natural for that one day she takes down her weave? I mean this just seems like such nonsense. #TeamNaturalNazis
Deirdre says
I agree with Shameka,
So are we saying that women who wear braids are natural when most of them actually use synthetic hair? That is not natural to me. I have gone from natural hair to braids, to weaves, to locs, to natural…I switch up and I am tired of people assuming that all women who wear weaves hate their natural hair. I for one don’t hate my natural hair but I do like variety. Besides, the black community has more pressing issues to contend with. A sista could have natural hair and be the first to turn her back to the issues within the community, yet a weaved up sista may be right there on the front lines ready to contend to the more important issues of our communities. We really need to stop fighting with ourselves and focus on relevant issues.
Chala M. Brooks says
As long as you take care of your natural hair, you can protective style all you want and whatever way you want.
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
So, you feel it truly is a protective style?
Joy says
You said it beautifully with “do what you want, who am I to tell you what to do”.
Whether Chala feels it truly is a protective style should not matter to anyone but Chala. Same goes for anyone else. I know the “but that’s none of my business” part of the meme is a little tongue in cheek, but it is the glaring truth that many people miss. If someone else has some sort of crutch with weaves, wigs & protective styles, it really is none of my business. Maybe she’ll work through it, maybe she won’t, not my problem and every second I spend thinking about how someone else is living is a second wasted. I just can’t allow others to police how I identify or label myself. They’re free to think what they want to their hearts content, but I’m not gonna lose any sleep over it.
Cheers! 🙂
nubiennze says
Awesome comment Joy!
Cece says
Let them shoutout team natural. At least they are proud to be. It really shouldn’t bother anyone if someone is natural and wearing weave to cover it up. Maybe that’s there method of growing their hair. maybe they don’t like how short it is. Or maybe they don’t have the time to keep it up every night. Who ever made that meme is just bitter, but it’s whatever they still gone wear their weave 95% of the time and still proudly shoutout team natural.
Tiki Knauls says
nope…lol
Dee Dee Priscilla Martin says
Lmfao dying laughing.
Ramone Semmoh says
No you ain’t ! Natural is wearing your own hair out most of the time. Love it
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
I agree 1000%!
Nikki says
I stopped relaxing my hair in 1994 grew locs and lived with waist-length natural hair for 20 years. Menopause and lack of knowledge about how to keep my hair mosturized accurately caused severe breakage. Twenty years to the month 1/94-1/2014 I big chopped my locs and got microbraids. After a year my hair had continued to break off and come completely out at the roots other places. It became necessary for me to remove the braids and take to fully focusing on getting my hair healthy.
I Big Chopped again this time shaved my head to remove all damaged hair and start from scratch developing the health of my scalp and growing healthy hair from the start. It was also necessary for me to focus on stimulating my follicles in place hair came out at the roots. From the time of the “bird-picked” head through now 1 1/2 month after shaving my head I have worn wigs.
I do not work in an environment, nor do I wish to sport my bald head and newly growing peachfuzz. I do not feel I have anything to PROVE to any natural woman who believes there is weakness in wearing my wigs now. I was short and nappy working for the government of a southern red state before many of these hair eletists were even born. If I choose to wear wigs now for my own reasons, I say put in as much time natural as I have and then get back to me…..
Bredget says
Exactly! I’m going through some medical issues and it has caused my hair to thin out. So I wear wigs to give my hair a break. I’m so tired of the judgement from other naturals as if they know my hair journey!
Shanz says
Exactly! Having natural hair as in hair that is not relaxed or permed is natural hair. No one’s saying it isn’t. But, being #teamnatural is a whole nother ball game. If your hair is natural, but you wear fake hair as in hair that is not yours and does not have your DNA over it most of the time, such as weaves and wigs…….that’s not really TEAM natural. As in, that’s what you represent, wearing your roots and changing it for no one. It’d be different if someone wore weaves and wigs because they want to every now and then…just for the fun of it….but when you have to in order to have hair length or texture wise and it’s most of the time……. For example, you can’t really say that it’s team natural to have a TWA under a 22” Malaysian Wavy weave over it 95% of the time……
lilly Moore says
Well stated!
niqua says
I represent team natural and yes i wear weave
Joy says
Do you! It’s no one else’s business.
Mel Jordan says
Lol Lol Lol.. ..
niqua says
Yes the meme is funnyv and yes ima natural and yea i wear my weave 95% of the time. I wear it because i eventually fall back into my old habits of taking care of my hair. My major problem is i cant keep my hands out of my hair. I love my hair, my texture, my waves so i will constantly fiddle with my hair. I aint hiding the fact that i dont relax. I dont want my hhj to be for nothing . So again yes u can be natural even though u cover it up
Charlene Jeffers says
What does a pic of Kermit drinking tea have to do with article? Lol.
Denise M. Poullard says
Did you read the article? It’s a meme she came across on the internet.
Kyra Walker says
I have noticed that many Black women have stepped away from the Creamy Crack (which is great) but still have a self hate mentality about their natural Black Afros. They still think that there hair either need to be strait or in a protective style in order for it to be pretty or “professional” looking.
In a world that has taught us for so long not to love our hair, embracing your Natural Black Hair to the fullest is not just a fashion trend. We as Black people living in a White Supremacist/racist society, need to stop being so passive, it’s not “just hair” and it does matter how you wear it. They used our hair to tear us down, so we need to use it to lift us up. With the right consciousness behind it, Returning to Natural is a revolutionary act <3
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
Great comment. Thanks for sharing.
Theresa Loscocco says
It’s their hair. It doesn’t have any self hating chemicals in it, let them wear it HOWEVER they please! Who said you have to wear an Afro in order to be called “natural”? ?? Girl please
Kyra Walker says
@Theresa Um I never said it wasn’t natural if it’s not an Afro and you clearly didn’t understand anything I have written. I suggest to reread it. I’m talking about the mentality that hair needs to be straightened and that Afros aren’t pretty. There are Black women who still have this Self Hate mentality even though they don’t use Self Mutilating chemicals. If you don’t see that as a problem then you need to wake up.
lilly Moore says
AMEN! my curlassociate
Nikki says
Kyra, sorry that comment was connected to another’s post, but in an internet-based lag it appeared on yours…It was not directed to you.
I will share, however, that I am a Black women who has been doing psychological and behavioral research for over 10 years. Much of it related to issues of the black race in America (social, economic, employment, social mobility…). Self-loathing as a scientific construct is multidimensional requiring a factor analysis to extract aspects of what is and is not connected. What a black woman chooses to do or not to do with her hair MAY present as a secondary MANIFESTATION of a characteristic of self -loathing but it IS NOT a statistically significant identifier. To say clearly…going natural or choosing straight hair is not enough to scientifically determine whether or not one self-loathes. There are women who straighten who are fully assimilated about their Blackness and those who are fully natural who self loathe. Opinion is opinion, but science is science….
Nikki says
No…women who gave up straightening their hair in the 1960’s and 1970’s were revolutionary. We suffered broad level social, political, and socioeconomic limitations for the choice to go natural. For you all today it’s a fashion choice that doesn’t come with nearly any of the significant challenges we faced from whites AND blacks. Yes some may disagree but black women choosing to go “natural” today…revolutionary??? not so much…/
Mieshel Jett says
Where’s the beauty of being natural if you never show it? Too many using hair hats as a crutch.. Let them coils breathe they are beautiful! I’m not talking about long enuf to wash and put back in before anybody notices either!!! Lol
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
I fee you!
Melodee Barnes says
Lol!
Anna Ogonji Smith says
Not in my opinion. You may have unaltered hair but it’s under fake hair. There are protective styles you can do with your real hair. Show some Black Hair Pride and wear it free of fake hair for at least a couple months out the year.
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
Black Hair Pride…I really like that!
Veronica Williams says
So if Im natural, but choose to dye my hair, Im not natural???
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
No one is saying that.
Abbi says
They may not be “team natural” but they are still natural. In other words, maybe it’s not that big of a deal to them to be on a team. Maybe they just like their hair to be natural and to rock wigs over it. Simple as that.
nubiennze says
This. I’m #teamme…I don’t care whether or not I can sit with y’all, lol.
dy says
#teamnatural got wayyyyyy too many rules. I’m with you on #teamme!
Joy says
Yes, Nubiennze and Dy, I’m with you! And just who is making these rules and why do they get to be the ones that make them?? Have I been missing committee meetings or something?
Aundrea says
Wow. Some people read far too into the word. Being natural is simply not putting chemical straighteners in your hair. That’s it.
I have a question to those that day otherwise. What if I wear the kinky weave with my perimeter out? Am I still natural then? My point is, so long as my natural hair is unaltered, I’m natural. Don’t judge my journey until you’ve traveled it.
shameka says
this question is utter nonsense I really wish black hair information wouldn’t promote such divisiveness amongst people who are already more divided than any other group. Skin color, hair type, education, wealth… jeez can we give it a rest. What the hell, now we have to ask if a women is natural if she rocks a weave… come on now… just stop the BS
Tina says
You can’t scream team natural and talk about how you represent when no one ever sees your hair unless you’re switching from one wig/weave to the next. If you are natural, then BE natural. Wearing wigs and weaves year around is not a “protective style.” It’s how you want your hair to look, it’s how you want to be perceived. You don’t want people to see your natural hair if you do that. You’re afraid of it. Because it’s not long enough, or loosely curled enough, or not thick enough. Part of going natural, or being a part of team natural, is the mental journey that you take to come to love yourself and accept yourself AS YOU ARE. If you wanna rock a wig sometimes or a weave for a month, cool. Lots of us do. But we take them out because we are not ashamed to show our hair. If you’re a busy mom and you prefer weaves cuz it’s easier but you don’t perm your hair, cool! But don’t rep team natural if no one knows you’re natural but you and your stylist. If you don’t want to take the time to style your natural hair so you wear wigs and weaves all the time, fine! But not perming your hair doesn’t automatically make you a “natural” by today’s standards. It just means you’re a woman with no perm.
Jesslyn Magee says
Just stop. Why are we always policing each other about how we wear our hair? If people wanna wear weaves, braids, other protective styling then let them. As long as it’s healthy, that’s all that matters. Natural hair Nazis are the worst! Smh
Katrina Gilmore says
Totally agree! Enough already
Precious Mwale Mutabwa says
I know,it’s very disheartening,and they wonder why there is so much discrimination among ourselves.this ought to stop.arg
Jesslyn Magee says
Seriously, it’s as if Black people always have to find the most minute reason to stratify ourselves. I’ve never heard the same issue among white women when a brunette goes blond, or vice versa. Is it self-hate then?
lilly Moore says
White women’s hair had never been mocked, discussed, disallowed in society like black women. White society has dictated to black women what is acceptable for their hair. No other race of women has been dictated too like the AA/black woman.
Joy says
True, Lilly. All the more reason to shun division and embrace our respective freedoms.
Vivian Perry says
Being natural is not dependant upon the “style” that you wear on your head. Being natural means your hair is chemically free. You can wear weave if you want to, its the state of your own strands that determine if you’re natural or not. Not “how” you wear it. Another thing we all need to make sure we are true naturals because products we use have chemicals in them lol let’s not judge one another, some of these comments are harsh over a simple question.
Ogechi Onwubu says
I disagree with the “self hate” comments. I think wigs and weaves are often more about length than about texture.
This opens up a conversation about beauty of long hair vs short hair (of course I believe both can be beautiful) but wearing weaves does not necessarily indicate “self hate”.
K10 says
I can understand why this was asked. I think there are different definitions of “natural”, it just depends on the particular individual. I believe if you are taking care of your natural hair (not perming it, listening to your hair, being conscious of what it likes/doesn’t like) and ultimately for the end result to be having healthy natural hair that you will eventually wear out, then you’re natural. But if you have no intention of coming out from under your weave, then perhaps that’s not really natural. I wear protective styles most of the time. Right now, my TWA is twisted/platted underneath a wig. My goal is to be able to wear my hair out, but for it to be as healthy as possible first. It was really damaged before. But that’s just my opinion.
dy says
there are not DIFFERENT definitions of natural….it is only just one. what there is, however, are different people attempting to FORCE their interpretation of a SINGLE word with a SINGLE meaning unto others and falsely identify it as the REAL DEAL.
Roberta Symmonds says
We must also remember that many of our women have had hair loss due to chemotherapy, lupus, and plain old mismanagement of their hair. They would like to wear their hair out but have bald areas that are covered with the wigs. We should not be judgemental when we see a woman wearing a wig.
Timeka says
The problem I’m having with this issue is the same one I have with other major issues like religion or politics…why do we care so much and why do we feel that we have define what natural is to anyone else? Screaming “team natural” has become just another way for people to categorize themselves into this “exclusive” club yet you can only truly become a member if you meet someone else’s standard for belonging. It’s idiotic and whether people know it not it simply creates another way for people to be bullied, judged, and ostracized. Allow people to be who and what they are without judgement and focus on more necessary things. My god it’s just hair, it’s just a piece of who we are.
Ola says
All I see here is hate, black women attacking each other, if leaving your hair out most of the time makes you feel special and part of an exclusive club for naturals then good for you… Put a sign up.. Have a party but keep it to yourself! .. I am so out of here, don’t want to be a part of this, detest labelling! I actually thought being part of team natural was about finally being a part of something special where black women can learn and get the support they need into discovering their own personal style… Everyone cannot be the same… Who made the rules anyways.. So disappointed.
Bredget says
Ola,
You are right, it is a shame where we as black women are more for attacking one another instead of embracing one another. I’m glad there are differences in reference to our hair because I can learn from other women on how they do their hair whether through weaves, wigs, or whatever, it really does not matter.
nubiennze says
1) There are such things as natural-/afro-textured weaves and wigs.
2) Wearing box/yarn braids, faux locs, curly/afro crochet braids, Marley/havana/kinky twists, etc. etc. etc. is not exactly “succumbing to a European standard of beauty.”
3) There are plenty of naturals who would love to rock the styles of their favorite YouTube gurus but haven’t even mastered keeping their natural hair on their heads, much less styling it in a way they find aesthetically pleasing. For many, protective styling is the first approach to natural hair that “worked” so they stick with it in an effort to maintain growth and/or ease of maintenance.
Porosity, pH, protein/moisture balance, etc. can be tricky, unintuitive stuff, and I imagine a vast majority of women who are taking care of a natural head for the first time in their adult lives are embarking upon their journeys with some element of trial and error. Conventional haircare has never considered our unique hair needs on any appreciable scale, so to some degree, we’re all learning what’s best for our individual heads as we go along.
I’d be careful of casting divisive judgement on people who are trying, as telling them they have no place on #teamnatural due to their styling choices may be just the thing that discourages them enough to go back to relaxers. I think it’s far more important for as many black women as possible to relinquish the caustic chemicals for the sake of our collective health; I’m significantly less concerned with whether we choose to hide our hair in braids once we stop relaxing it.
Just because you “got it” at your first attempt doesn’t mean it will come that easily for everyone, and protective styling – even exclusively – isn’t any less of a valid style choice because it isn’t *your* personal choice. Would the same be said of a woman who rocks buns or two-strand twists 24/7/365?
If this conversation is directed toward women who avoid showing their natural *texture* at all costs (i.e. living under silky straight lacefronts or flat ironing their hair to death to “blend” with some Malaysian remy), that is indeed a separate matter. No need to villainize all PSers to address that, however.
lilly Moore says
Freedom Of Speech/Freedom Of Discussion
Anita says
Who cares. It’s your hair do what you please. I am representing myself. Team be damn
Bredget says
LMAO! 🙂
Terry Norman says
Right. ^^^ that doesn’t mean it’s self hate??? People always think we’re hating ourselves. Crazy
Sira Turner Sidibe says
I agree it is more about length or even just being lazy since we dont really have to do much with a weave everyday. Self hate and covering up our hair has nothing to do with it bc i love to wear my hair out but i have a hard time keeping up with any style and it gets time consuming
Ramone Semmoh says
Natural means your proud what god has put on your head and wearing it out with grace ! If your hair is always or mostly coverd that means your not embracing it there for you are not a Natural !
Shameka says
so I guess we all have to give up on protective styling since the natural nazis are coming for us because we cover out hair… What if your a muslim woman and you wear hijab to cover your natural hair… No grace their huh? What if you have a regimen where you protective style for 6 months out of the year and 6 months you wear your hair. Are you not natural then. So wait I don’t have any chemical or color on my hair but I can’t call myself a natural haired woman? What if your hair is more fragile and just can’t stand up to being worn out or on your shoulders for too long. Not to mention the fact that some of us have careers in places where some twists or braids as protective style is not cutting the mustard. Its fine if you work at Khamit kinks in brooklyn but if you work for the department of defense or goldman sachs… you might miss that promotion. The whole point being that we are all on different journeys. My journey as a natural is not yours. You don’t know where I live, who I live with, where I work, what my day to day life looks like… but you presume to tell me what I am or am not based on YOUR life… Come on honestly, to any smart woman this just doesn’t sound that intelligent.
Sira Turner Sidibe says
^ not true the same can be said about wearing make up bc we are not embracing our face or even just wearing clothes and covering up our bodies bc its covered doesnt mean we are hiding it
Ramone Semmoh says
Your point is not valid to mine so please just stick with the subject !
Sira Turner Sidibe says
Its very valid.
Ramone Semmoh says
Nobody said you dont have natural hair but being team Natural is going all the way !
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
Good point.
Nichole says
That’s only your opinion. I wear wigs through the winter to protect my hair and also when I just want something different and I still consider myself TeamNatural. Who are you to tell me what my definition of TeamNatural is? Each girls natural journey is unique to them so stop judging and start encouraging.
Erica Williams says
If I did, it would be my business! Not worried about other peoples heads! I got two daughters, so I’m busy! Lol!
Katrina Gilmore says
This is BS. My hair is in the state between natural and chemically relaxed hair. It’s almost to the point where I can start cutting away some of the relaxed hair. I wear wigs during this transition. Secondly I live in a city that doesn’t have a lot of hair stylist that work with natural hair and I’m not great at doing styles on my own. Protective Styles help people in the transitional stages. That’s the point.
kittyclaus says
I am also transitioning to natural, and I live in a city where there are not a lot of stylist who are willing or able to work with transitioning hair. But I am not about to give my money to some Asian conglomerate who thinks I’m nothing but a monkey with a purse they want to pick. I take the time to learn to work with and deal with my transitioning hair, and now I can rock hundreds of truly protective and cute styles with my own hair. I don’t have the time or funds to get myself a “hair hat,” and I certainly don’t want to be yet another representative of the fake-hair wearing stereotype that most other races have of Black women. Am I team Natural? Not 100% yet. But I will be, and it won’t be with the help of anyone else’s hair.
Sira Turner Sidibe says
Your missing the whole point…
Jesslyn Magee says
I’m sorry are some of y’all getting a check from the National Association of True Naturals or something?! It’s just your HAIR!! Why do we have to internalize everything? If a woman wears a wig/weave big deal, your hair should complement who you are, not define it! This is exactly what India Arie wrote a song about!
dy says
CUT THE CHECK!!!!!!!!!! LOL
Erica Williams says
We are too grown for this! smh!
Debra Dalton says
Who cares! Wear your hair the way you want it!
Christine Tina Zeigler says
I can’t believe we’ve been reduced to arguing over hair!
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
Just discussing. Not arguing.
lilly Moore says
Why is it when AA women attempt to involve themselves in a mature conversation some of us assume that the issue(s) are an attempt to create division amongest us? This is a site about hair! Don’t be overly sensitive!
Joy says
Whether the intent to create division is there is one thing, but with statements to the effect of you’re not team natural UNLESS you (fill in the blank), that is divisive.
Kadishea Bell says
Yes, because it’s all about the hair that grows out of your scalp.
Shaunda Harris says
Wow this is interesting. I say that bc I am natural but I wear alot of protective styles bc I am military. There are so many restrictions on what we can and cant do with our hair. Alot of the cute natural styles are not authorized. Cornrowns must b small and straight back, a fro can not be more than 2in, no bandu knots allowed etc….I dont think im any less natural because of it *shrugs shoulders*
Sabrina Richmond Perkins says
You do it because of your job just like the stars. That point was made in the post and thanks for sharing.
Shameka says
yes she does it for her job… but according to you and those who share your opinion she is not natural because her hair is in a protective style most of the time. That just doesn’t make any sense… This very website recommends protective styling to women who desire healthy hair, and now we are meant to feel some type of way (that is definitely the intent of this article before you go ahead and tell me its not) for protecting our hair. The reason I went natural is precisely BECAUSE I love my hair, my kinks and coils, its the reason I use protection as an insurance policy against damage MOST of the time… As a result I am not natural or I don’t love my blackness… I am beginning to feel like those white girls who want to be team natural but everyone says their not
Erin Campbell says
Hair is hair. I went natural because I wanted to achieve healthy hair and what I realized is you can have natural damaged hair just like you can have relaxed healthy hair. Be it you wear wigs, weaves, braids, wraps, or curls as long as you love your hair it will love you back.
Kelly White says
Yeah.., u don’t have a perm or relaxer so your hair is natural wth
Territa Shantwon Garrett says
The protective style don’t change the fact that you have no chemicals in your hair. I have to wear protective styles a lot because of my hair texture ( it can be easily broken). I wear sew ins and braids a lot to protect my hair. I don’t understand how this question even makes sense because protective styles don’t put chemicals in your hair.
Synamon says
Every ladies reasons for going natural are their own. Those reasons will determine how they choose to rock their hair. Reminds me of the parable of the sower,if you know your Bible.
fruitbowlk says
I wear my hair in braids 1. Because my hair thrives much better than it does any other way. 2. because I get tired of doing my hair all the time and it gives me a break from the washing process, twisting process etc. We take this natural hair “movement” too far. it has become more of an joke than people making a decision to do what is best for there hair and the health. Why are we making laws on hair? There is so much to think about, write about and talk about than why people choose to do xyz with THEIR hair. Lets grow up and encourage each other than pulling each other down and wonder why other races say the things they do about us.
Theresa Loscocco says
Yes!!
Marie says
This is a great question. It, and some of the other comments here, has given me something to consider, because I have caught myself wondering the same thing!
I think the natural hair trend is not just about hair freedom, but also about emotional and mental freedom. I think the agitation is present during these types of discussions because it SHOULD just be about personal hair styling preferences. However, unless you just joined us on the planet (Happy Early Independence Day if you did! ), you know that this nation (maybe even this world in this regard) is not quite there yet. That is so sad but it is true, and I know that AA and African women around the globe are tired of being constantly evaluated through the lens of other people’s ignorance or hatred.
Our hair grows out of our heads the way God created it to grow. However, we have been so mistreated and marginalized because of our appearance in general (hair included) it is a wonder we still have any hair on our heads at all. Sometimes a discussion about hair is about more than hair. It is the same way a request for a cup of coffee from a black person at whites-only-counters in the 1950s was about more than a request for a cup of coffee. It SHOULD have been just about the coffee, but it was about much more than that. Therefore, there is some hope that one day the natural hair discussion will just be about the hair, and not about the history that is attached to it.
syd says
This is ridiculous…. my hair is still %100 natural (completely free of chemicals) with or without weaves and wigs. I wear weave or wigs 95% of the time because I do not have the time to style my hair every few days and my hair does not like to be manipulated that frequently and I retain length best in wigs and weaves. I love my hair but I recognize my hair can not be handled often and to be honest, I dont like many natural hair styles, i dont feel like most look good on me, I just like how much healthier my hair is, so that when i do decided to wear it out, it looks good.
Elvenlen BriteEyez Harvey says
There are more important things to worry about in this world than concentrating on other peoples hair! Natural is loving yourself regardless of how you decide to wear your hair, if its part of you being you and no one else, then flaunt your hair however you want…that is natural!
lilly Moore says
Have you ever heard of agreeing to disagree? This is suppose to be an adult conversation. How boring would this site if we all thought the same? BORING!! I am not a follower of thoughts!
Apryl Byrd says
Teamnatural is definitely wearing your own hair and loving the hair the grows naturally out of your black scalps! The only protective style i wear is my own hair twisted or braided! The point is not hiding your own hair of dumbing it down with someone elses hair or standard of beauty…ijs.
Ramone Semmoh says
Exactly !
Lee Aquarius Burch says
I personally don’t think you are team natural with weaves, braids, wigs, etc. Being natural to me means wearing your natural hair. What’s the point of going natural if no one sees it. I see doing the protective styles once in a while but natural is 95% if the time and 5% protective styles. I have worn my natural hair from the beginning in 2011 through breast cancer and being bald back to my hair growing back. I’m natural and you see everyday looking at me!! You can be team healthy hair underneath but team natural we sport it everyday!!!
Mikailia Rogers says
Here we go
Che'Von Benton says
What one does to their hair is no concern of anyone. We need to worry about ourselves as opposed to others. Who cares if the chick down the street is truly natural because she doesn’t let air hit her hair because she chooses to wear protective styles. Only truly natural folks are those that do not put anything that is man made into their hair. Those pointing fingers need to question if they are truly natural by looking at the ingredients they put in their heads.
I recall being 14 and truly natural, using only organic olive oil in my head and being teased relentlessly. Now 20 years later, I still can’t win with being natural cause I choose to protect my hair. When will this BS stop?
Rebecca Ashley Love says
These debates get stupider and stupider stop worrying about what other people is doing with their hair worry about what’s going on with your head who gives a shit if someone’s not comfortable with their hair as-long as it’s not permed I don’t see the issue and even in still if their hair is permed that’s their problem tired of these debates over hair everyone’s entitled to do what they want all this does is bring out a bunch of pointless opinions from the born again naturals that think know everything , to the ones that never had a perm who cares let them rock at least their hair is done
Amy says
So, generally I keep my mouth shut about such things, but I feel like this topic of discussing is burning me up a bit. I am natural. I have been natural way before it was popular. Back when I went natural it was discouraged by many of the hairdressers and stylist I spoke with, mostly because they didnt know how to deal with natural tresses. I was not discouraged by that one bit. I went natural and never looked back. Now over the years, I have worn weave but not consitantly. Now at days I wear it a lot.
What i dont like about this debate is that it somehow insinuates that when a woman chooses to wear weave or straigthen her hair that she is some how suffering from self hate issues. That could not be more untrue!!. We as black women have fought for the right to be accepted and have made great strides in accomplishing that. Yet now we choose to degrade and undermine each by the ” you are not natural enough arguement” Give it a rest. This is no better than the Light-skinned / Dark-skinned debate. As a race we often worry and discuss how we are treated by others, but we always find a reason to trivialze each other.
A woman has a right to choose. I choose to wear weave because I like It. It gives me different options to try out with changing my hair (cut,color, etc). It is also has low maintaince which is ideal because I have a husband a toddler and demanding career.
I also LOVE the texture of my hair. My go to natural style is a wash and go.
Bottom line is a woman has a choice and choosing one style over another doesnt make you any less natural and it doesnt mean you hate yourself. We need to unify and stop trying to divide and judge our own race.
lilly Moore says
Why Do You Normally Keep Your Mouth Shut! You have a brain and a voice so put your adult thong on and keep them on! Speak Up! Are you afraid the internet mob is going to beat your ass?
Menda Blessed says
No big deal!
Sonya Rice says
Yes if the hair under the weave, wig ,braids is all natural.
Dominique says
Who cares if someone is natural and wants to wear their hair under wigs, braids or weaves. It’s they’re hair. Who are you to judge someone to say they’re not natural. You talk about naturals getting judge from their boss and family but you’re doing the same. Some people braids, weaves and wigs so it can grow. Stop making a big deal out of nothing.
Kelly Jamila says
team natural ?
I really hate that term…its like saying “team light/dark skinned” :/
Maria Madge Brown says
I wear weaves a a protective style because I want my hair to grow. It is easier to put it in a weave and let my hair do it’s thing. Also saves a lot of time in the morning and getting ready for bed. I find my natural hair difficult to style at the length that it is, when my hair is shoulder length with minimal stretch, then I will wear my curls; other wise Kermit is right, it’s no ones business
Theresa Loscocco says
Who cares?
Kimberly Champion says
yes. i wear braids year round and its bc i dont have time or patience to comb and deal with this huge afro on a dialy basis. my daughters hair is enough thank u
Kimberly Champion says
has anybody factored in the time and frustration of dealing with a 10 inch long 4C afro??? i enjoyed playing in my hair when i was 10, but now i can live without it. everything is not about self-hate. its about practicality and that comes from me and all the naturals i talk to with heads full of hair underneath all that weave
Erin Gray says
Blackhairinformation should be just that information on how to achieve and maintain healthy hair no matter the style, NOT a forum of questions that cause people to answer and cast undue judgement on each other. It’s hair. No matter the style the goal is healthy hair.
MzWanda says
I am rolling on the kitchen floor laughing my hair off at some of the non-relevent comments. READING IS FUNDAMENTAL! The article doesn’t say if you wear weave/wigs 95% of the time you’re not natural. I states if you wear weave/wigs 95% of the time (for no valid reason) you are NOT #TEAMNATURAL. When you represent something, you show up and show out. If you’re wearing those hot azz hats 95% of the time, how are you representing anything other than #teambrazillian, #teamstraighthair, #teamkinkytwists, #teamhathead, etc. Yeah your strands are still natural, but, don’t claim something you won’t/don’t even proudly represent. #teamnatural #kinkyCURLYcoilyLOCS #hennababy #knottyhairdontcare #AFROdesiac
Ileah Collins says
the point people keep missing isn’t that wearing weave/protective styles is the problem. The issue is do you embrace your hair fully and enjoy being natural if that’s all you do? clearly there’s more going on so discussion, encouragement and support is needed. Did ya’ll even read the article?
Unique Burke says
Uh ok so if your hair is natural but you wear a weave some times the u have no black pride???? Stfu to whoever thinks that. .I get tired of twisting my hair evrry night
Carrie Cowart says
Natural means something different to everyone! But most would agree being “natural” is your hair without chemicals. I have stepped away from using relaxers and texturizers for over a year now, BUT I like to dye my hair with chemicals and not henna. So does this mean I am not natural anymore?
Protective styles are a matter of choice. It could have everything or nothing to do with self hatred. I loved my coils in transition, during my TWA phase and even now as it continues to grow, but I love sew ins, braids, twists, etc! Nobody should be knocking anyone for preference over THEIR hair.
The most important thing is to be happy and healthy.
Shahiea Preston says
Yesss I believe so
Tameeka Harley says
This has to be the silliest thing to even bring up. If your hair has no chemicals, you are natural. Too many people want to find new ways to justify theirs and others choices. As long as you take care of your hair, it really doesn’t matter. I alternate between weaves and wearing my hair out. Whatever I feel like doing, I do.
Jessica says
I dont know how i feel about this, im kind of in the middle. I rock my natural from time to time but 90% of the time it is in interlocks or half of wig. It’s partly easy and it really does well for my hair to rest relax and be tucked away. I work 12 hour shifts and being on the bus with no car it saves me half the time then if i were to rock my natural. I am also a cosmo studen who happens to love wild colors, red is the current pink is next. Im not messing up my golden naps for some color, but im also not going to NOT try new things and express myself thats just who I am. BUT….a huge part or me not rocking my naturla is insecurities!! Im a big gal with a chunky face and my natural freshly chopped is still very short. Im hair type 4c and shrkinage is SERIOUS!!! soo I feel ugly, I feel fat and exposed!! Every now and then i get bold and rock it till i see my reflection or a picture of myself then i regreat it. I feel just as apart as the natrual world as a women who rocks her natural 24/7….doesnt make her any more natrual then me! I just have less courage then she does!! Articles like them make me feel less then shit to know that i am not down or some type of sale out simply becuase I have personal issues. Yes it is something I am and have to work, thats apart of me growing up but how does that make you any more natural then me? How does that take away my right to call myself a natural…I have no perm….no heat damage hell i dont even use shampoo and only the best oils for these naps but you mean to tell me that because i wear half away and interlocks im not natural? Seems about right, thanks for the heads up
BlkDoll says
I never and I do mean NEVER comment in these forums…however your post really touched me. I had wanted to “go natural” for a very long time. However it took me some time to build up the nerve to make the leap forward. I wrestled with insecurity and my usual confidence took a nose dive every time I thought about how others would perceive my newly shorn head. This is a very personal decision and how we choose to wear our hair after we decide to be chemical free is equally so. I too am a full figured woman and that fact brings about its own set of insecurities. Take your time and move in your own space. Do whatever makes you feel special and beautiful because you are both of these things. I big chopped on 12/19/13. I wore more my hair in twists and wraps for a few months and then one morning this past spring I woke up and decided that I was just going to go for it….I assure you I have never felt so free…so pretty…so me!!! You will get there in your own time. Until then remain positive, nurture your hair and just be….
Wilda Mondestin says
Yes you are still natural.
Starr Jay says
I don’t get perms or any chemicals to permanently alter the texture of my hair damn it I’m natural.
lilly Moore says
You May Be! Does not mean others are!
Anita Brown-Pickens says
I am going to unfold ow this BS site. This is nothing but a shit starter.
lilly Moore says
Grow the F-up if you are upset about a simply question then you need to find a site where everyone has no brain and everyone likes the same thing! Zombies! Go Find That Site Follower!
Sulaika Martina says
I only respect the people who are natural and dont wear weaves or wigs. If you are so proud of your natural hair embrace it dont hide it! Im relaxed btw but if i decide to go natural i would chop it of or deal with the 2 textures !
Taylor Arianna says
If you’re going to create all this drama over natural hair then stop the whole “movement” because personally I am tired. Black women focus too much on hair when we have bigger issues. All I’ve seen is texture discrimination and who is and who isn’t really “natural” im tried. Unite as one or shut up about your “natural movement”.
Carla says
This made me think about KevOnStage (Team Natural vs Team Perm – the cartoon). Simply hilarious!
In my opinion, a claim to #TeamNatural is about being an example in sharing the beauty of just that. Someone who’s constantly concealing their natural hair is indeed natural, but I would not consider them to be #TeamNatural; I would consider them to be #TeamProtectiveStyles. It’s weird to hear someone who’s always under a wig try to convince others to go natural, but they never sport their natural hair. I do believe they are #TeamNatural if, even on occasion (i.e. twice a year – which is less than 5% of the time), they will sport their beautiful natural hair – it represents how proud they are of their hair. If they NEVER sport their hair, they’re simply #TeamProtectiveStyles.
People can claim what they will, but when you make a claim to something, it’s commonly expected that the evidence of that thing will be revealed in some way at some point in time. If it’s never revealed, it just sounds noisy (lol).
kareal says
I’m a natural hairstylist and I’ve seen it all! From weave wearers to afros and guess what they all have issues. Lol so instead of pressuring my clients to wear their hair a certain way I encourage them. Why couldn’t this article be of one that says, hey ladies that wear natural hair under your weaves, why do you do it and how can I encourage you to let it go? I think a more positive approach would have you to understand everyone’s point a view without it becoming an argument. Guess what some of you have said its just a discussion and how often does that turn into an argument? A lot when people have strong opinions. We also have to realize every style isn’t flattering to everybody! Some of us want to have whatever style we wear to compliment our features and quite frankly I see people wearing afros who don’t even pick it a little now my bestie can rock that not everybody can. A lot of women out there don’t have stylists and would like one. There is another issue that could be addressed, what does it take to get other stylist to want to deal with our natural hair? We can have a discussion without being so negative. I’m team comfortable with me and so are my clients.
Sheanda says
So by this reasoning if I cover my whole body in white clothing 95% of the time does that mean I’m not black?!! lol #ija… does that mean I hate my color and everything black??!
Just b/c it can’t b seen at all times it doesn’t exist or I’m unloyal to the cause?!? honestly, my decision to go natural wasn’t about a cause… its not a movement, not about being on a “team” or representing my “black pride” it was just something I did for ME cause at the time it made sense b/c the “creamy-crack” didn’t work for me, my kinks and coils and curls could not and would not lay straight… I’m 4c and the majority of the time my hair is covered and protected cuz 4c can’t handle being handled and out and about on a daily basis… it doesn’t mean I love my hair any less cause I don’t show it evryday or i’m less natural than the 3a/b/c/4a/b chick that wears hers out 85% of the time, i’m not suffering from identity crisis or self hating or thinking the “european” way is the best way to wear your hair uhhhh no… one of the many things I love MOST and embrace wholeheartedly about being black is the pure unadulterated versatility of being able to throw just about any look, any style, any wavy, straight, curly do in my hair and look dern freaking great at the same damn time…
we have to be careful I mean b/c if we keep with all these “rules” and blasting and berating our women just b/c they aren’t walking this road this exact way, to this exact beat, to this exact tune I mean does that make us any better than the “white supremacist” that was making us feel ashamed of our hair to begin with? I think we should just focus on teaching women, period, to love everything about themselves and teach them how to properly take care of their hair, period whether they are natural or permed just to be healthy
lol and if any one is really curious bout how “natural” I am please I mean puhhhhlllllease come over and help me on any given wash day I could ALWAYS use the extra help #ijs 😀
when will the debate stop says
being natural shouldn’t be based on how your hair is styled…I think some ppl put too much into it…being natural, to me, is based on your hair not being chemically processed….that’s it!
Nikki says
It’s funny reading the comments here that it seems we have taken the “light-skinned/dark-skinned” “good hair/bad hair” divisiveness turned it inward on ourselves once again and now determine ones worthiness based on what they CHOOSE to do with their un-chemically processed hair.
Honestly the true #team natural are those of us who gave up the straightening combs back in the 1960’s and 70’s, proudly sported our “naturals” and afros when there were SIGNIFICANT socio-political and socioeconimic ramifications. Those of us who never chose the creamy crack at all.
These days black women have freedom of choice. What another sister chooses to do with her unprocessed hair can be an intimate personal choice. Those of us who paved the way did not do it so there would be another way to divide ourselves. We did not hate on women who chose to continue straightening, for the most part. The whole point was to offer CHOICE. Those of you who want to separate yourselves away from other sisters because they don’t walk the walk the way you determine is pure enough…..
Really!!! to true old school naturals you are just little girls trying to play dress up.
vanessa says
I think that the thing is that a part of “natural “black woman are blaming others because they are not embracing their “natural “state so they are running after the image of Caucasian’s hair according to them; but looks like those who are “natural” are doing exactly the same when they wear weave 95% of the time, at this point is more a ” hidding style” than a ” protective style” so were is the pride here?! I think that when your are natural and your wearing braids, or twist even with fake hair it’s still in this idea of the natural black woman african inspired.
chaley says
I am saddened to see such shaming…… just because someone chooses to wear protective whether it’s 5% or 100% does not mean they’re any less natural….. thise that feel the need to look down in others because of this need to have a talk with their inner selves to discover the real problem….. you don’t have to like it just say its not for you but anyone who decides to wear protective styles as much or as little as they choose doesn’t automatically become less than you…… and thus need to define whats natural or not is just mire hate being thrown around and will further divide
Latasha says
I have a question what about the ones who are wearing their weave because of health issues like alopecia? They have no choice but to wear weaves 95% of the time while still remaining 100% natural underneath. My daughter is natural and has gorgeous 4c hair. I keep hers in braided styles because I don’t want to have to over manipulate it with the comb or brush or just settle for flat ironing it. I am not natural. Although I have tried many times being natural I could never truly find anything that really worked for me. Relaxers don’t even work for my texture but I’m not going around saying I’m 50% natural or covering it with weaves. When I was natural I kept weave in because I didn’t know any styles to do to my hair or how to properly care for it. So saying someone isn’t truly natural just because its covered by weave is another way of bullying them for choosing to wear it. Just like naturalistas get bullied for being natural. That person just may not be comfortable with their natural hair choice.
Kim Bernard says
Oh please I’m a black woman and I deal with the hair the creator gave me and not eurocentric bullshit styles that demean me as a human being and look like something from planet of the apes. Don’t need a team.
Cheri Jacoby says
Hmmmmmmm, my grandmother wore a wig over her natural hair. And so did my aunt, both late in life ,my mother said, not because they didn’t have hair, but because they did, and a lot, even as elder ladies . It was because its a lot of work to do their hair. We call it being done fiddlin’ with it. But I also have a girlfriend in frail health who has beautiful natural hair,but its very fine due to her illness, thyroidism. My mama always said, yeah, it’s mine, wanna see the receipt, smile? But, Shhhhhhh, that’s our little secret….
Jamila Kelly says
here we go separating people of the same kind by hair (not even skin, but hair) and mentioning “teams” XD silly
Delorce Ferrell says
I agree!
Brittney Amera Cruz says
I couldn’t agree more!!! It’s ridiculous.
Shanika Small says
Seriously!
Tania Stevens says
This was a READ!!! Lol but kinda true…. La’tey Stevens Selena Harris Toonz Levi
Shana Everson says
Being natural means u have no chemicals in your hair regardless of if you choose to wear a protective style 95% or 100% of the time…This post is rediculous.
Delorce Ferrell says
Yasss! I’m glad someone said it.
Kelly White says
This post pissed me off.
Happiness Molapo says
Good post ….
Pauline Koudoyor says
Who cares? I’m sick of this silly topic
Kia Wright says
Asha Jamia says
Yes. That’s team hair growth.
Shan Morris says
Lord.. All these teams and classifications.
Shanika Small says
Lol
Kelly White says
Ummm yeah… If your hair is not chemically processed at all meaning . Relaxers or colors… Then yes. Because I’m am
Shanika Small says
Exactly.
Kelly White says
This post is dumb, and if anyone thinks this, you’re dumb
Dionna Johnson says
Giiirrrllll yes!!!!
Zita Vigier says
Yes you are
Georgia Jackson says
Nope
Malakah Angellia Gladston says
Hmmm…..so a person can’t claim natural because they’re wearing a weave or wigs? I don’t wear either of those things but I think that’s ridiculous to tell someone they “can’t claim natural” simply because they CHOOSE to put a wig over their NATURAL hair 100% of the time. I understand you’re trying to encourage s
Kim Bernard says
You are arguing with someone’s musings in an article
Maira Hoepel says
Nope
Erica Boyd says
Yes. And it’s really aggravating how I see women split themselves up because they wear their hair natural and other wear a weave/wig and others are perming it up. I’ve seen some people act like their on a pedestal. I like all types of hair. It don’t matter to me. My hair actually grows with a perm. But I’m done with them chemicals.
Maria Robertson says
My question is why wouldn’t they be? And secondly who cares? The most important question should be is your hair healthy?
Stacy Lucky says
Do as you please. The main thing is that you are happy with it.
Ashley Ruiz says
Why is BHI perpetuating the divides within the black community? I’m relaxed but I always look at natural hair care for myself and my daughter. Naturals are trying to have this “movement” but everyone is excluded! You can’t relax, can’t color, can’t be a different ethnicity, and now you can’t wear weave all the time. You can’t even be relaxed and go natural again without being ostracized. And why….above all else, do you care what someone else does with their hair? I’m so tired of this exclusionary thinking. Get over it and BHI is turning into a tabloid.
Renee Akperov says
Thank you! In the end it’s my hair and I have to deal with it, not BHI. I relax as well and my hair is healthy.
Kim Bernard says
I think I will write an article on black women who paint their toenails and those that don’t and see if I can get a passionate division. More important things in the world I think. Was here for hair advice not nonsense debates about the other.
Shantee Bowman says
Im starting to get agitated at how much they perpetuate the divide. Its non-stop. I too thought I was going to get days and days of hair information and tips, but instead I get articles fueling the divide at a time when we all need to come together. Sick of people judging what other people do and telling them they are right or wrong. Its sad.
BlackHairInformation.com says
That’s really not fair nor true Shantee Bowman. This post is simply one writers opinion thats all. Personally I wore weaves for majority of the first 3 years of going natural until my hair was long enough for me so it doesn’t bother me one way or the other how everyone decides to wear their hair. If you go on our website you will notice that we write controversial topics once in a blue moon. Our recent posts are all hair tips.
Trevia Myles says
This is stupid.
Louisa Godgreat says
I aggree ohh
Louisa Godgreat says
Na wa. Person no go gear word again becos una dey carry natural hair. Wetin nor they important like this yeye article una go write like people wey nor get work. If na important thing like hiw to maintain & grow hair i support. Nor be yeye article like this one.
Silvia Rocha says
No , you’re not a natural if you wearing a hair extension ,so you’re not natural when you wearing a hair protection . Natural have to be your hair and only.
Natswa Akela Smith says
Another “I’m better than you…” fu*kery! Do what’s right for YOU! If wearing weave to protect your natural hair, do so. Too many people watching others in this “so-called” hair movement, so they can berate and belittle them
Kim Bernard says
Protect your hair from what, societies scorn.
Carina Desiree Brooks-King says
If you wear weave your wearing a weave what are you protecting your hair from ? LoL I R been natural 20 years and haven’t needed to protect my head from anything but I’d say yea if the hair under the weave isn’t relaxed
Candace Alain Small says
WOW! This topic though!!!
Tshego Masemola says
The first stage of going natural is wearing protective hairstyles untill you figure out how to maintain the natural hair. Especially when you are 99.999% black. This hair gets mighty curly and coarse. So you mixed race sisters should just give people a break. Most people want to go all natural but it’s not very practical. Society is still hell bent on relaxing that hair every chance they get.
Delorce Ferrell says
So true
Omada 'Abahi' Okpe says
In addition to that if you’re very busy and work in a corporate environment (let’s say you work in a bank) it’s more practical and timesaving to wear these protective hairstyles. Who has time for wash n GOs or other shit every single day?
Kim Bernard says
Grew hair from childhood right.
Tshego Masemola says
Maybe in time we will be able to do that in half the time. But right now, as long as the hair growing out of my roots is natural, thick, healthy and has a hairline. I’m happy with that. When you see my natural hair in public…Please don’t touch! Ag my hare!
Shawnetta Jones-Mochabella Nursery says
For some. I didn’t in the beginning and have only worn it once very shortly. Three years into this I wore marleys once about eight months ago for two weeks just to try because it was a pretty style not for protection from anything. I wear/wore my hair 99% of the time and yes it gives me fits but I see no point in switching to wear weaves, for me personally. To each her own. They were heavy as hell might I add and not my cuppa. I don’t protect anything even in sleep I plop down as is and my hair is doing just fine and mid back stretched, armpit unstretched.
Delorce Ferrell says
Well said!
Brenda Matthews says
Well it has to start somewhere!!! 😉
Queenofthe Nile says
Omg… another natural debate! This topic is beat like a rug
Shanika Small says
Lol
Kimberly Champion says
i am. dont believe me, just stick around when i take these braids out
Shanika Small says
Lol!
Joycelyn Cannon says
After I big chopped, I never felt the need to wear protective styles, but that’s just me though
Gypsy Gal says
So are we saying that women who wear braids are natural when most of them actually use synthetic hair? That is not natural to me. I have gone from natural hair to braids, to weaves, to locs, to natural…I switch up and I am tired of people assuming that all women who wear weaves hate their natural hair. I for one don’t hate my natural hair but I do like variety. Besides, the black community has more pressing issues to contend with. A sista could have natural hair and be the first to turn her back to the issues within the community, yet a weaved up sista may be right there on the front lines ready to contend to the more important issues of our communities. We really need to stop fighting with ourselves over ridiculous OPINIONS and focus on relevant issues.
Taroniah Rice says
Well said
Tracey Jackson says
Natural shouldn’t be a damn team; it’s a style choice. Good if you choose it, good if you don’t. #RidiculousMess
Maybell Lena Killion says
Yes because I’m protecting my hair. Say what you want but my hair is growing strong, is healthy and beautiful!
Jalaya Wallace says
yes wtf
Deondra Davis says
What happen to the natural saying: “Fake it til you make it?”
Taylor Arianna says
If you’re not putting chemicals on the hair that naturally grows out your head then yes. Why do y’all wanna be picky about this?
Allie JS says
Yes, a woman has a right to wear a protective style to preserve and maintain her crown as often and as frequently as she’d like.
Teresa Jessie says
Yes. Your hair is still natural.
Dee Dee Altoveese says
My daughter washes, conditions, and french braids her own natural hair… then she sew in weave hair, and her natuaral hair is growing so long! And is healthy! So I’m thinking about doing the same thing as I don’t even press my natural hair but would like more style.
Teresa Jessie says
This should not be a topic of discussion. Each person is an individual, and should wear their hair the way they want or choose to. They are pleasing themself….not you or me. I got so much flack when I went natural (you don’t look like yourself). I just gave them the look and went on my way. It has been 2 years since going natural. My hair was breaking off in back and my worry spot was traveling up, so I went from past my shoulder to not even 1/2 inch all over. I just wanted to start all over.
Lauren Lusco says
Really… Ummm yes!!! Wth. Its called CHANGE..!
Oc Monique says
It’s only natural if it’s your natural hair…weave is either synthetic or someone else’s hair; no matter how to you try to justify it in your mind it is not natural.
Krystal Rogers says
Why do women get so defensive over hair type?! At the end of the day it’s just hair! It falls out, it grows, it stays the same…whatever! Do what works for you! I thought going natural was suppose to be about embracing what you have, not joining a team or trying to please others?! What happen to that?!….women these days are just too sensitive over little things and hair is one of them!
Kim Bernard says
If it were just hair people wouldn’t be making billions off of black women just like it is just skin color making people bleach theirs.
Krystal Rogers says
Still…women can’t let things let hair and skin control their lives. ..you have to be above that!
Angela Ford says
Dumb post.. Wasn’t even worth this comment.
Ciani Nicole Johnson says
I don’t think u hv to look down on ppl to b exclusive. If everyone is included the movement is meaningless. Then white girls can go natural. U can be natural and hv nvr worn ur natural hair outta the house. I c her point. And it’s this younger generation’s idea that no one can be excluded or different. That’s taboo. Life is about being proud of ur differences while still respecting others. So u say she’s not natural but I respect her right to do whatever she wants with her hair. And u say it n a way were u r not lookin down on her for her choice. And u hope her decision isn’t rooted n self-hatred. Bc who wants that’s for another sister.
Laquayva Anthony says
I’m so over this stupid question. Just another reason to divide us further. You don’t see other races of women doing this. Smh…
Laquayva Anthony says
When other races wear wigs, weaves, or hair dye, do you really think they say among each other, “Hey you’re not completely natural”? The answer is NO! Enough with the foolishness…
Claudiamant PingPing says
no way!!!! Natural is your own hair not the inches you buy in stores !!!
Aliyah Morrison says
Um wigs and weaves aren’t the only protective style ! I hate wigs and weaves but I wear my hair in flat twists anything that’s twisted braided or pinned and put up is a protective style . Hate these freaking girls with weaves telling me i need a weave to protective style stupid research what a protective style is uugh.
Aliyah says
Ok people WIGS AND WEAVES ARE NOT THE ONLY PROTECTIVE STYLE ! Sick of lost stupid brainwashed blacks telling me need I need a weave or wig to protective style ! I hate weaves and wigs . I protective style with cornrow braids without extensions . A protective style is when your hair is tucked , pinned , braided , twisted , or put away . It’s protected and put up in a style .
Alexandria Shaughnessy says
Wow smh here we go
Kori Vaughn says
Why does it matter?
…goodness….
Tosha Smith says
Smh…. Let me drink this coffee….. #clears throak # (I know throat) I’m team natural and I’m also team do whatever you choose to do to your own hair.. Even though I’m all for natural… Some naturals can be a bit extra towards others who choice isn’t to be natural… Main and key word (choice).. Let people be..
Missy Glrob says
I’m with you 100%. The things ppl concern themselves with baffles me sometimes smh.
Tosha Smith says
Right.. It’s just hair… Let people be..
Kori Vaughn says
I love protective styles. My hair grows so much better when I just leave it alone….
Tosha Smith says
Right ..low manipulation
Kashonna McHenry says
Yes. Natural ‘Nazis’ can have plenty seats. Do what ya like. Its a label anyways. Some Folks get caught up in labels and labeling to cover up whats really inside. Natural…yay for YOU. not natural….yay for YOU and now what. Oh you made a CHOICE for YOU, YOUR life, YOUR lifestyle, YOUR wellbeing. Do you and be fine with it.
Tosha Smith says
Right ^^^
Alexandria Shaughnessy says
100! ???????? it’s unnecessary smh I feel you girl.
Tina Day says
True ????????
Tosha Smith says
My profile pic shows a picture of myself wearing a bun with Marley hair added to it for fullness.. I’ve been natural since 2010…due to my choice… Iam I not considered natural because of a protective style !?..anybody in my opinion… With super thick 4c hair knows the struggle… I ain’t… and yes I said ( I aint) for the English teachers… about to fight with the traffic of my hair daily.. So I either bun it.. Twist it.. Or braids.. However… It’s ones choice beautiful ladies that are weaved out or whatever..
Lee Danielle says
I love this! I’ve been natural my entire life but am told by new naturalistas that I’m not natural because I flat iron my hair! Do you know how hard it is to be natural in the winter?! Who has time to be washing and conditioning and going outside with a damp head!? Let alone my hats don’t cover up my fro????
Tosha Smith says
Right… If you choose to flat iron your hair Lee that’s your soulful choice… Right now my hair is twisted because this cold weather disrespects 4c ends… It’s a task.. But again what ever pleases you… It burns me when people “think”they know it all..
Kelli Mcghee says
Best thing I ever did was leave my hair alone and just let it do what it do growth is astronomical
Michelle Davis says
I am so sick of the Team Natural yea im natural and I wear my wigs every day and dont give a darn what any one say or think I dont live for other people. PEOPLE DO WHAT YOU FEEL IS GOOD FOR YOU. So clap clap to that
Tosha Smith says
Right ^^
Phoenix McGee says
I agree. I don’t believe it matters. Interesting thoughts though.
Ashley Blue says
Just to debate the question no! If you’re covering your hair with weaves most of the time you are #teamweave
Kori Vaughn says
Natural means as it grows out of your head,free of chemicals. You are still natural even if u never show it….
Ashley Blue says
Yeah true but always felt like it was pointless to tell people you are team natural when all u wear is weave. I know people who never take a hair break. They get their weave taken out and put right back in. What would be the point in proudly shouting team natural and making other feel like crap bc they color or relax their hair when u don’t even show yours at all. I’m not talking about people who were weaves often for whatever reason. I’m talking about people who seem to be ashamed to show their hair or don’t know what 2 do with it
Kori Vaughn says
I definately hear what ur saying..
Kerri James says
Why is everything a debate? I’m team whatever makes YOU happy. Dang!
Kashonna McHenry says
Yes you are still considered team natural if YOUR hair is free of chemicals.
Lee Danielle says
The crazy thing is, a large majority of “natural” women would not be considered natural because they dye their hair. But in my opinion u are natural if u don’t get perms/relaxers
Jaime Sunshine Brown says
Gtfoh! Like team dark skin light skin. Just dont.
Alexandria Shaughnessy says
OMG I was thinking that to so dumb more s**t to make Blk women fight and look bad I feel you!
Neki Love Greergirl says
Right same stupid debate us vs them just a different topic!Just another way to create division!
Jaime Sunshine Brown says
Preach sister! We are above this nonsence
Morgan Denise says
I’m sorry if you ever experienced that. You’re beautiful in case you haven’t heard it recently.
Elayne Bowman says
I feel like this, as long as a person takes care of their hair, it doesn’t matter how you wear it. Ur hair will be with til we leave this place.
Dayna Strong says
What difference does it make? You could have a relaxer and wear your hair in a protective style the majority of the time. People it’s just hair. Stop taking stuff so seriously!
Kizzia Logan Holland says
No ..itz not your buisiness what i do with my hair!!! Mind yours..
Jamie Carter-Bailey says
Are y’all really going there?! First being natural was considered not using any chemical to alter your hair structure, now it’s considered by how often you wear it out?! Gheesh y’all are becoming natural Trumps!!! It’s not that serious.. A protective style isn’t only weaves and wigs, you can use you own hair for protective styling; which is basically low to no manipulation. Whether someone wears a wig or weave, as long as their hair isn’t being chemically altered they are natural. Shoot I see natural hair and “beat faces” but that’s none of my business. A lot of women, myself included don’t wan to big chop. Instead, they transition and often resort to braids, weaves and or wigs. Please stop with the madness!! Soon I’ma have to switch out the tea for wine dealing with y’all
Crystal Fair-Coates says
Amen!!!! Lol I’m 100% natural. No chemicals near my hair and no makeup either… Good point girl
Lala Butters says
I understand but being natural is also a symbol of self pride felling in love with ur hair and urself (I’m not saying u can’t do that with weave) so where weave is like u kinda cheat the natural experience… But that’s is a person choice
Dee Love says
I’ve been natural for over three years, wear my hair “protected” 90+% of the time… my hair is to the middle of my back. It would probably be longer put protective styling fits my lifestyle. When I’m tired of crochet braid styling, my hair is where I want it to be!!!
Nikki Robbi says
Without protective styles, its pretty hard to keep my natural hair.
Tracy Reaves says
I have a question. Why? Why is there a freakin debate? Messy! Just plain messy and baiting. Starting mess and creating a divide. How important is this? This has been coming up since before I went natural over 3 years ago
Erica Williams says
Does it matter? People are free to do what they want!
Yulanda Gupton says
Mind ya business Kermit!!!….lol
Erin Gray says
There’s no Team it’s just hair We are INDIVIDUALS! I wish we could discuss hair without the need for a divisive post to spark a debate. Rise above this nonsense
Jordann Alease says
leave people alone
Millie Stokes says
Yes there’s no chemical
Carla Shawntae says
I don’t care!!! Something has shifted…at first there was an embrace within the natural hair community. There was support…and a good bit of dignity. This question is indicative of the shallow movement taking place amongst SOME naturals. I see naturals sizing each other up, bragging about curl patterns, competing with one another…I love ALL things natural, coarse, fine, high density, low density…I appreciate it all. It’s a shame that this ugly mindset has infiltrated
Janice Peters says
We are beautiful regardless of how we wear our hair!
Lorrie Gillette says
There are those of us who have natural hair and are losing it a lot every day due to hormonal change and heredity and stress. I’m team do what makes me feel good! Now put that in your cup and sip it!!!!
Jessica Ely says
Some people need to get out of their feels because when your going school, working two jobs, taking care of kids, etc You don’t always have time to keep doing things to your natural hair. Secondly, everyone’s protective styling doesn’t consist of weaves. You could wear your hair in mini/chucky twists/braids. Lastly why is it anyone business how someone wants to do their hair. Everybody has some type of problem with naturals as if you don’t have flaws. Man seat down and shut up because no one from the natural community care. Thank you and have a blessed one.