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Are you one of “those” that has had a relaxer since you can remember? While I was also forced to give in to the creamy crack at the tender age of 8, not many people were also able to experience getting out of the “straight hair, don’t care” life.

A friend of mine was contemplating the big chop this summer and confided in me that she wasn’t even sure what her natural hair texture looked like. Afraid, reluctant and scared, needless to say, the big chop never came to fruition and she’s still refused to give up her addiction. More than anything I believe she felt pressure from me, one of many of her natural friends, and perhaps this new movement of women embracing their kinks and coils. Are we wrong for wanting to impose our “lifestyle” on others?

Although there seems to be this unspoken war between naturals and relaxed beauties, I’m not biased either way. If there was a natural / organic perm that didn’t lead to cancer or other toxic-induced diseases, I’d have less of a bone to pick. What it all boils down to are a few questions that I had to consider when I made my journey into the worlds of natural tresses: Is my hair worth my health? Who said my natural hair wasn’t good enough?

My hair is directly connected to my idea of beauty and for a long time I struggled with what my definition of beauty is. If we analyze and take a deep look into why we make the decisions we do about our hair, we may just discover more than a simple look we’re trying to achieve. It may be time for a re-introduction to your natural tresses. You might find something you didn’t know you were looking for.

Love and Beauty,

OBV