4. Utilize family, friends and coworkers
Styles should be chosen that compliment your features. It is best to have others opinion to ensure that the style works for both our head shape and facial structure.
Family, friends and coworkers can reassure you that the style you chose is suitable for you. The awesome thing is that this frequently happens without us asking.
If nothing is said, do not assume that it isn’t complimentary. Ask for input if it isn’t offered to ensure that the style compliments “you.” Styles should be chosen that compliment your features. It is best to have others opinion to ensure that the style works for both our head shape and facial structure.
5. Maintenance and preparation
Maintain the moisture level as needed for your hair. I suggest that you moisturize when you return home in the evening so that it is dry by morning.
Those with really dense hair should make it a habit to moisturize as soon as you return home after work, rather than wait until right before bed. The style you choose should be easy to maintain daily/nightly when you first began wearing your natural hair again.
A complicated hairstyle will cost you valuable time in the morning before leaving for work. Again, as I mentioned earlier, a low manipulation or protective style is the best choice.
The goal should be to get up and shake your hair and go! If not set your alarm clock for an earlier wake up time to allow you enough time to prepare for work without rushing. Rushing causes undue stress and also poor handling of hair.
6. Hair 911 preparation
Invest in a wig* or half-weave that matches your hair’s length, color and texture. There are many reasonably priced synthetic options available. If you have a difficult time matching your length, have it cut to your length.
This investment will ensure that you are covered on those inevitable bad hair or bad weather days, by giving you the ability to fully protect your hair and look good while doing it. Hats and scarves are also a good alternative, but may not be appropriate for those with office jobs.
Having a standby is ideal for days that your hair doesn’t want to co-operate. If you have never worn a wig* before, I would suggest taking a friend with you to select one. Most beauty supply stores that sell wigs* also allow you to try them on before purchasing one.
Michelle says
So how does a customer get her hair waist-length? Especially if she is over 45 with bad edges and thinning hair? I currently use Jamaican Black Castor Oil every other day and wear a half wig.
Melinda McCain-Magee says
The damage to the hairline and thinning happens over time, so to see progress will take time and patience. As we age our hair and skin changes too. It is very common to experience thinning of skin and dryness. It is imperative that you continue to keep your scalp and hairline moisturized so do not stop using the castor oil. I would advise that you make sure that your bonnet or scarf is not rubbing your hairline or tied to tight. Friction and pressure that prohibits circulation causes hair loss! I would also pamper the hair exposed beyond your half wig. I have seen many that experience damage due to dryness and pressure where the wig band begins! Keep in mind that exposure to all elements, including the natural hair touching the wig hair can dry your hair! You will see progress in time! Do not give up!
Stacey says
Melinda, is there a way to PM you? I am looking for a stylist in my area.
Melinda McCain-Magee says
I am currently not in a salon but you may PM via email for support! Finding a stylist is easy but finding the right one can be frustrating. I advise visiting the salon and observing the stylists. You want a stylist that is highly skilled and great at communicating. It is important that a stylist takes the time to get to know you and your hair; while being open to your input. A stylist that doesn’t listen isn’t worth your time and definitely your money!
Pamela says
So I have a big problem. I’m natural have been for about 3-4 yrs maybe longer. My hair has always been short I decided to let it grow which it did with all the products that I used kinky curl, conditioners everything u name it. my problem is I love to dye my hair so I decided to put a semi-permanent color in sooo I stripped my hair myself, added the dye Special Effects in Oct. blue velvet. wanted something different being that I thought it would wash out eventually. to my surprise it never did it took so strong that when I tried to dye over the color it turned green..smh. so I’m using braids, kinky twist to give my hair a rest. I then tried color oops it lighten but its still green. right now its in kinky twists I know it sounds like a lot of chemicals and perhaps it is. when I first blow dried my natural hair before all this drama. It was beautiful but I didn’t like the color anymore. the only thing I can do now is let is rest co-wash and deep condition until it comes out hopefully. Can you tell me what to do? I’ve always taken care of my hair think I need a beautician now. sign hopelessly frustrated
Melinda McCain-Magee says
Bleaching dark hair severely weakens the hair but I know you knew this before deciding to do it..right? Now, any attempt to lift the green tint should be done by a colorist and it would definitely cause more weakening of your hair. If the color is bothersome I would try a safe alternative like a dark color in Clairol’s Jazzing line. This is only to tone it down so that it isn’t as distracting as it grows out. Since the pigment was permanently removed all semi-permanent applications will eventually fade away leaving color grabbed areas behind. In other words the color changes will continue unless you have a professional lift the green and apply another permanent dye. You are wise to have it in a protective style and you should commit to continuing to leave your hair alone. Your hair can no longer handle heat and lots of manipulation. Get a good protein conditioner like Aphoghee to ensure you maintain the protein levels. Next time opt for a weave or wig as an alternative to coloring your hair. Please keep me posted! You have me beyond worried!
Ashley Crystal says
Lol!!
The Freshness of Life says
Nice :/