Natural Hair: Beginner's notes

Did you see me in the November issue of Essence Magazine?  Page 68 afro section....

"These sharp sisters embrace their roots with locs, Afros, and braids"
- Essence Magazine: Style File

I nearly passed out when I saw this article.  I don't remember how they got my picture (I probably sent it in, but my memory is like a goldfish...) and I didn't know that they selected it, but I was over the moon when I heard about it.  I'm still signing autographs, if you want one :-)  Anyhow, I was inspired to offer a little more encouragement to any women who are aspiring to go natural (Do it, do it, do it!!)  Just 3 important steps from a lifetime member...

As you persue being natural, it's important that you:

1. Face yourself and embrace your hair as it grows out of your head. No braids, no weave, no cover ups. Wash you hair, put some oil/moisturizer in it, let it dry and then sit in the mirror. Play with your hair, look at your scalp, and acknowledge the power and beauty staring back at you. I've been natural my whole life, but I used to press & blowdry my hair all the time. I stopped cold turkey and wore an afro for 3 months straight. I did this first step and cried like a baby for hours. You are programmed not to like your hair because it's thick, wavy, and/or curly. You are programmed to think that bouncy curls or super straight hair is the only way. You are programmed not to like yourself the way god created you. This step will help with unprogramming you.
2. Get to know the products and the INGREDIENTS you use in your hair. Just because it says "natural", "for curly or wavy hair", "moisturizing", etc does mean you should use it in your hair. Bad: Mineral oil, Sodium lauryl sulfate. Good: WATER, OLIVE OIL, Shea Butter.
3. Develop Confidence, Patience, and the Courage to experiment!

Can you do it?


"Take the kinks out of your mind, not your hair." -Marcus Mosiah Garvey


Be well
Mickel :-)