Ask any woman going through the “transition” and she’ll tell you it takes patience and confidence to make the “BC” or big chop. Sing “I Am Not My Hair” all you want, but for many women, hair is a symbol of their personality and womanhood. To cut it off is the ultimate middle finger to Western society’s ridiculous definitions of beauty.
The ambivalence to go natural or have any type of “Afro-centric” hair is granted, especially in the professional world. Back in 1987, the case of Cheryl Tatum in Chocolate City itself, sparked huge debate when she was fired from her job at a Washington, D.C. Hyatt Hotel. Told she had an “extreme and unusual hair style” (also known as braids) she filed a lawsuit and the company changed their policies. But unfortunately the stigma of being naturally you stays.
Slowly attitudes are changing and the idea that low fros or twisted curls aren’t gorgeous is evolving. Once you’ve decided to make the move to natural, what first steps can you take?
The first: learn the best products to nurture your chemical-free hair. Only use products with natural ingredients such as carrot oil, olive oil and avocado. For styling, gel or styling cream is the best way to define curl ringlets and keep hair in place.
Avoid shampoos and conditioners with alcohol, because it strips the moisture from your hair. Once you’ve invested in the right products and know how to keep your hair moisturized (if you can’t tell, moisture is a HUGE necessity for our hair) it’s time to play with styles!
Option A. Thin head band to push back you curls. There are tons of cute bigger headbands with flowers and unique accessories as well, but thinner bands look best with smaller fro’s.
Option B. Fro hawks are adorable on women. Make sure to fluff out the hair in the front to add definition to your “hawk.”
Option C. Pin the back up into an up-do. For formal occasions, flowers and decorative combs look great on the side of your head.
Option D. If you miss visiting the salon, getting natural twists are a clean a sophisticated look for work and play.
For more guidance check out Madame Noire‘s favorite natural hair sites:
