Top 5 Myths: Natural Afro Hair
Contributor: Dinan Saeed (@dinan249)
Black hair is a major topic for both black and non-black people alike. From well-meaning fascinations, to malicious assumptions, there’s a lot to be said about black hair. Unfortunately, most of the time the conversation around black hair heavily misinformed. We spoke to some people in the black community about the assumptions that are often made about their hair. Here are some of the common misconceptions about natural hair:
1. Black people can’t grow their hair long
While length is not a sole symbol of good hair health and may not be every person’s goal, with the right care, all afro hair types are able to grow very long! That is, of course, taking shrinkage into account.
2. Women who don’t wear their natural hair either hate it or can’t grow it
While wearing your natural hair can be incredibly empowering and very beautiful, natural hair can require more time to maintain. Many women may not have the time or resources to care for their natural hair, so opt for other low-maintenance styles. Other styles are also useful as protective measures to maintain natural hair as it grows or recovers from damage; women are then able to wear their natural hair out more confidently.
3. Natural hair is a political statement
Historically, especially in the United States, there have been links made between wearing your natural hair and being involved with pro-black movements. Often, those who wear their natural Afro hair are labelled rebellious. It is right to say that at certain points in history, natural hair was worn as a visual challenge to the status quo. However, it is not the only reason why many choose to wear their natural hair To many people, it is just a preferred hairstyle!
4. Natural hair looks messy or unkempt
There is a lot of historical context to explain why many of us are socialized to believe that hair that is not smooth or slicked down is messy, and it is important that we unlearn this as part of our journey to accepting and loving our hair in all of its forms. Socially and professionally, black people are often penalised for not manipulating their hair to make it resemble European hair (which is considered the norm). But the truth is, there is no wrong way to wear the hair that grows naturally out of your head, and you should be incredibly proud of it!
5. All Afro hair is the same
Afro hair ranges from type 3A to type 4C and within those types it can be any length or colour. Some hair types are easier (i.e. require less time) to care for, , while others require a lot more work to keep moisturized and healthy. Even within the hair types, each head of hair is unique in its needs. It’s important to study your hair closely and learn the best possible ways to care for it. One thing we know for sure though, is that all hair, in all of its phases is beautiful, and you should always be proud of your crown!
Unfortunately, we are not short on assumptions and biases that are linked to our hair. There is always a lot more to learn and unlearn about our hair as we go on our journeys towards self-love.