7 natural hair myths that you need to stop believing. Right now.
Society has attached so much worth on the hair of our mothers, sisters, daughters, and our grandmothers that we carry shame in embracing our natural hair.
Below are 7 common myths about natural hair and before you find yourself spreading these ignorant ideas, please educate not only yourself but those around you as well.
1. Natural hair is strong
This couldn't be further from the truth. The fact remains, natural hair is fragile because of the texture and the way it curls. If not handled with delicate care it can be easily damaged.
2. Natural hair shouldn't be washed too often
It is no secret that it is believed that 'black hair doesn't like water' however washing your hair on a regular basis stimulates hair growth and cleanses the scalp of any oily build-up.
3. Natural hair isn't versatile
Once again this is a common misconception that society has about natural hair. There are various hairstyles that women with natural hair can rock, proudly, if I may add.
Hairstyles for women who embrace their natural crown and glory:
- Two-strand twists
- Finger coils
- Box braids
- Heatless waves and curls
- Blowout
- Bantu knots
- Flat twists
- Goddess braids
- Afro
- Dreadlocks
- Marley twists
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4. Natural hair can't grow long
The shrinkage texture of natural hair makes it difficult to examine the actual length, but that doesn't mean that there has been prevention in hair growth.
5. Natural hair is difficult and unmanageable
It's actually quite simple; if you have the knowledge about natural hair then managing your crown shouldn't be an issue at all.
Tips for managing your natural hair:
- Trim your split ends.
- Wear styles that do not require a lot of manipulation.
- To prevent breakage, work with your hair in sections.
- Deep condition is a definite must.
- Sleep on a satin covered pillow case because cotton causes dryness
- Wear a satin scarf to bed for protection
6. Natural hair needs to be greased
If you're guilty of applying grease to your hair, stop immediately! Your scalp naturally produces its own oil.
If you do have a problem with a dry scalp, use one of the following oils:
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Sweet almond oil
7. Natural hair looks unprofessional
This common misconception about natural hair being perceived as unprofessional is absolutely ridiculous!
As long as your hair is styled in a tidy manner, it's professional - period!
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If you ever find yourself overwhelmed and discouraged by the state of your natural hair reflect on the quotes below about natural hair and how embracing your crown ultimately empowers you.
Tracee Ellis Ross. Credit: Reuters
"I love my hair because it's a reflection of my soul. It's dense, it's kinky, it's soft, it's textured, it's difficult, it's easy and it's fun. That's why I love my hair." Tracee Ellis Ross
Teyonah Parris. Credit: Reuters
"I cried, I cried… it was such an emotional experience and it wasn't just about hair. It was what my perception of beauty was and had been for all of my life and then I look at myself in the mirror and I'm like, 'That doesn't look like what I thought was beautiful." Teyonah Parris on her reaction to going natural.
Solange Knowles. Credit: Reuters
"I actually love my natural hair when it's in a twist out and it's been slept on for five days and revived by the steam of the shower." Solange Knowles
Viola Davis. Credit: Reuters
"I had to defend myself as an artist, but I found myself defending myself as a dark-skinned Black woman in front of people who did not know my life. I took my wig off because I no longer wanted to apologize for who I am." Viola Davis
Janelle Monae. Credit: Reuters
"Never in a million years did I think that I would see a young black girl wanting to look like me." Janelle Monae